Airtel Launches Rs 185 Voice-Only Plan

Bharti Airtel has launched three voice-only prepaid plans, priced at Rs 185, Rs 203, and Rs 206, offering unlimited local, STD, and roaming calls, as well as 300 SMS. The plans, which do not include bundled mobile data, are valid for 28 days, 30 days, and one calendar month, respectively.

The Rs 185 plan is the most affordable option, providing 28 days of unlimited calling and messaging. For an additional Rs 18, customers can opt for the Rs 203 plan, which offers 30 days of validity. The Rs 206 plan, on the other hand, is valid for one calendar month and renews on the same date the following month.

All three plans include free HelloTunes, allowing customers to set a new tune every 30 days at no extra cost. The launch of these voice-only plans follows TRAI's direction to expand voice-and-SMS-only options with a corresponding reduction in tariffs.

The plans are aimed at users who primarily need calling and messaging services, such as feature phone users and those who rely heavily on Wi-Fi for internet access. By offering these voice-only plans, Airtel provides customers with more flexibility and options within its prepaid portfolio.

## Why it matters The introduction of these voice-only plans is significant, as it provides customers with more choices and flexibility in their prepaid plans. With the increasing demand for data services, many customers may not need or use the bundled data that comes with their plans. By offering voice-only plans, Airtel is catering to the needs of customers who primarily use their phones for calling and messaging.

The launch of these plans also follows TRAI's mandate to issue special tariff vouchers for voice calls and SMS at a lower cost, as they will not be bundled with data services. This move is expected to benefit customers who do not require data services and are looking for more affordable options.