Jio Becomes World’s Largest Telco

Reliance Jio has achieved a major milestone, emerging as the world’s largest telecom operator with 488 million subscribers, according to Reliance Industries’ FY 2025 annual report. Of these, 191 million are active 5G users, contributing 45% of the company’s total wireless data traffic—cementing Jio’s leadership in high-speed connectivity.

In May and June 2025, Jio outpaced all competitors, adding more than twice the subscribers of Bharti Airtel, while Vodafone Idea and BSNL continued to lose users. The network now handles around 17 exabytes of data traffic monthly, amounting to 185 exabytes annually, highlighting its dominance in India’s data consumption landscape.

Jio’s growth is backed by strategic initiatives in AI and emerging technologies. The company is working with the government under the IndiaAI initiative to expand AI infrastructure and lower inferencing costs nationwide. It is also investing in 6G research and satellite communications, including a tie-up with SpaceX’s Starlink to improve remote connectivity.

As of late 2024, India had 1.19 billion telecom subscribers across wireless and fixed lines, with Jio commanding roughly 40% of the total market. Its scale is matched by its innovation in technology integration.

By combining rapid subscriber growth, advanced technology adoption, and bold infrastructure investments, Jio is evolving from a telecom leader into a global digital powerhouse, reshaping industry competition and expectations.