Why Mukesh Ambani's 4G Push is Hurting 2G Users: A Closer Look

Introduction

In an era where technology is rapidly evolving, the push towards 4G and beyond in the telecommunications industry has been a topic of significant debate. Recently, the Persistent advocacy for 4G technology by business magnates such as Mukesh Ambani has been seen as a significant shift away from more reliable and cost-effective 2G devices. This shift raises several questions about the viability and necessity of the 4G push, particularly when 2G technology still serves a large segment of the population effectively.

Mukesh Ambani and the 2G Kill

Mukesh Ambani, a major player in India’s telecommunications landscape, has been instrumental in the transition towards 4G technology. A recent Supreme Court Verdict (SC AGR) has, in his view, killed competition, but his next move appears to be the anticipated downfall of 2G technology. This shift aims to drive users towards more expensive and less reliable 4G devices, such as Jio smartphones, despite the widespread use and reliability of 2G phones by users earning well above the 10K per month mark.

The push towards 4G technology, which has been criticized as primarily aimed at selling unreliable and expensive Jio phones to users, overlooks the basic needs and reliability of 2G devices. While 2G phones continue to meet the demands of users who prefer their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the move towards 4G seems more about profit margins than genuine technological advancement.

The Reliability of 2G Phones

Despite the rapid advancement in smartphone technology, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of 2G phones remain unmatched. For instance, the Samsung Guru 1200 2G handset has demonstrated excellent performance, providing up to a week of battery life even after five years of use. Similarly, the SS J1 4G Feb 2017 VoLte Smartphone has issues with battery life, highlighting the superiority of 2G technology in terms of reliability and longevity.

2G phones, with their basic functionalities, have proven to be highly reliable and cost-effective alternatives. Even advanced features such as long-term battery life, ease of use, and affordability are still not equaled by many 4G and higher technology devices. For users who don’t require advanced features like audio, video, gaming, or social media, the simplicity of a 2G phone is often more than sufficient.

Practical Considerations for Basic Users

For many users who survive on a frugal budget and have a wireline phone, a 5,000 INR smartphone is still a significant investment. Basic functionalities such as receiving bank SMS alerts and OTPs for completing financial transactions on a desktop with a wired broadband phone line are crucial. Transitioning away from 2G phones could pose challenges for these users, especially in areas with limited access to advanced technology.

Besides, the practicality of using a 2G phone as an alternative to a 4G Jio SIM for basic communication is vital. The cost of maintaining a smartphone for repairs or replacements is often prohibitive, making 2G phones a more practical solution for daily communication needs. For users who want to make calls, send SMS, or use basic social media platforms, dropping back to a 2G phone is a more feasible option.

The Necessity of 2G Networks

The question of phasing out 2G networks for the next five years raises concerns about economic recovery and the accessibility of basic services. 2G technology serves as a reliable and cost-effective foundation for many users, providing essential connectivity in areas with limited access to advanced technology. For instance, BSNL 2G remains a lifeline for many in underprivileged regions, and the idea of permanently closing 2G networks would be a retrogressive step.

Given the economic disparity in India, the importance of 2G networks cannot be understated. 2G is a robust and resilient technology that serves as a solid foundation for more advanced telecommunications. For users, particularly in rural areas, 2G serves as an earthquake-proof structure, providing a basic level of connectivity that is reliable and cost-effective.

The transition to more expensive 4G devices can have a disproportionate impact on less affluent users. The push towards 4G, driven by companies like Jio, overlooks the basic needs and reliability of 2G technology. As such, it is imperative that 2G networks remain operational to ensure that basic connectivity remains accessible to all users, particularly in economically challenged regions.

As a final note, it is a testament to the value of 2G phones that many users have relied on them for years, often running them for extended periods with minimal maintenance. This reliability and cost-effectiveness underscore the necessity of maintaining 2G networks for the foreseeable future.

The Future of 2G: A Call for Preservation

In conclusion, the push towards 4G technology should be approached with caution, especially when it is evident that 2G networks still provide a critical service to a significant portion of the population. The focus should be on ensuring the continuation of 2G networks, providing more reliable and less battery-guzzling 4G VoLte feature phones with keypads at a more affordable price. This approach will ensure that essential connectivity remains available to all, regardless of their socio-economic status.

As we move forward, it is important to recognize the value of 2G technology and its role in the telecommunications landscape. By preserving 2G networks for the next five years and beyond, we can ensure that the foundation remains strong, supporting the transition to more advanced technologies without losing sight of the basic needs of the population.