Jio Platforms, the digital subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has launched a new service in India called JioPC, to transform televisions into cloud-based personal computers. Using Jio’s set-top box and an internet connection, users can access a virtual desktop directly on their TV screens.
Currently in its free trial phase, JioPC is available to users via a waitlist invitation. Once enrolled, users can connect a keyboard and mouse to their television and begin using the service. It comes with pre-installed LibreOffice, and supports Microsoft Office tools via a web browser. However, at this stage, the service does not support external devices like webcams or printers.
The Jio set-top box, which enables this feature, is included with Jio’s home broadband packages or can be purchased separately for Rs 5,499.
Industry analysts see JioPC as a game-changer in improving digital access across India. With over 488 million users, Jio is now targeting an untapped market: while 70% of Indian households have a TV, only 15% own a personal computer.
According to TechCrunch, JioPC can expand access to computing by tapping into this large segment of TV-owning households.
Government data shows there are nearly 57 million active pay-TV set-top box users in India. However, the DTH market is slowing down, as subscriber counts falling 8% year-over-year as more users shift to internet-based platforms.
While the PC market in India grew by over 8% in Q1, experts say the biggest challenge for JioPC will be marketing the concept helping consumers understand that their TV, with a Jio set-top box, can function as a full-fledged computer.
Although virtual desktops from global players like Microsoft exist for enterprise users, JioPC is one of the first serious consumer-focused attempts in this space.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest Business News on India.com.
