Jio Platforms Explores US Broadband Technology Deals with Comcast and Charter

Jio Platforms, controlled by Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries, is exploring international partnerships to license its proprietary wireless broadband technology. As part of this push, the company has held discussions with major US firms, including Comcast and Charter Communications, regarding potential technology licensing arrangements in exchange for possible stakes in the businesses.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Jio also engaged in discussions with South Africa's MTN Group. However, those talks ultimately broke down because both sides were unable to reach an agreement on valuation and specific licensing issues. Sources noted that there is currently no fixed timetable for reaching a deal with any of the parties Jio has spoken with.

Jio's international expansion efforts are co-led by Dan Bailey, former chairman of Deutsche Bank’s technology, media, and telecom practice, alongside long-serving senior executive Mathew Oommen. Managing Director Akash Ambani recently stated that the company intends to take its unlicensed band radio (UBR) technology to both developed and developing markets, while remaining highly selective about its international footprint.

The proprietary system runs on free, unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies, enabling providers to deliver internet to homes more cheaply than traditional cable networks or mobile-based services. Instead of physical cable connections, the technology uses transmitters mounted on nearby towers or rooftops to beam high-speed internet over Wi-Fi frequencies to receivers installed on buildings.

For US-based operators, the technology offers a potential strategic advantage. Home broadband has become a competitive battleground as telecom carriers push fiber and fixed wireless services, putting pressure on cable providers. Comcast and Charter have both experienced customer losses to fixed wireless and fiber alternatives, even though cable held a significant share of US residential broadband connections.

Neil Shah, director at Counterpoint Research, noted that telecom spectrum is scarce and expensive, making UBR an attractive option for companies like Comcast and Charter to deliver cellular-quality broadband over spectrum they do not need to purchase.

Jio recently indicated that it is targeting 10 to 15 partners globally for its UBR technology platform. While financial details of the potential partnerships remain undisclosed and prior talks with MTN concluded without an agreement, Reliance continues to evaluate opportunities across international markets, signaling a shift toward selling its technology to foreign operators rather than building independent physical networks abroad.

"Jio's strategy to license its proprietary wireless broadband technology internationally highlights a shift from traditional infrastructure expansion to technology-led business models. By utilizing unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies, Jio offers a cost-effective alternative for established telecom and cable operators facing competitive pressures in markets like the United States. Success will depend heavily on valuation agreements and the ability to demonstrate network reliability at scale to major foreign players." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes