Jio testing Smart Walls to boost network coverage with no towers needed

Reliance Jio is exploring a new technology called Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS), commonly referred to as “Smart Walls”. This new technology will improve mobile network coverage in areas where signals are weak. Instead of installing additional mobile towers, these programmable panels redirect existing radio waves towards locations with poor connectivity, potentially improving indoor coverage while consuming very little power. The technology is being developed as part of Jio’s indigenous 6G research and could play an important role in the evolution of future mobile networks.

Unlike traditional mobile towers that transmit fresh radio signals, Smart Walls enhance connectivity by intelligently redirecting existing signals. They incorporate thousands of programmable reflective elements that steer radio waves toward areas with poor or obstructed network coverage.

The technology operates much like a mirror reflecting light, except these advanced panels reflect and redirect mobile signals around physical barriers such as walls, buildings, and other structures that typically weaken or block wireless connectivity.

Jio's prototype integrates software-defined beam steering with JioBrain, the company's AI-powered network optimization platform. By continuously analyzing network conditions, the system dynamically adjusts the direction of radio signals in real time, optimizing coverage, capacity, and overall network performance.

Energy efficiency is another significant advantage. According to Jio, the prototype consumes less than 7 watts of power, making it a highly sustainable and cost-effective alternative to deploying additional network infrastructure.

Rather than replacing conventional towers, Smart Walls complement existing infrastructure by maximizing the utilization of available radio signals. This approach has the potential to lower deployment costs while extending reliable connectivity to locations where network coverage is traditionally difficult to achieve.

The technology is expected to play a particularly important role in high-frequency 5G and future 6G deployments, where signals offer ultra-fast speeds but face greater challenges in penetrating buildings and other physical obstructions. By improving signal propagation in such environments, Smart Walls could significantly enhance the reach and reliability of next-generation wireless networks.