Vi’s AI-Powered Vi Protect Flags 600M+ Scam Calls, Launches Real-Time Threat Response

Vi, India’s leading telecom operator, today announced Vi Protect, a comprehensive AI-powered initiative that unifies all of Vi’s consumer, network, and enterprise safety and security measures against the rapidly evolving landscape of spam, scams, and cyber-attacks under one umbrella.

As part of this initiative, Vi introduced two powerful measures at India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025. An AI-based Voice Spam Detection system and AI-driven network defence and incident response system for its core network.

Vi’s voice spam detection detects and flags fraudulent and spam calls in real time. Using advanced AI models, web crawlers, and user feedback, it identifies suspicious callers before they reach the customer. When a potentially fraudulent number calls a Vi customer, the phone screen will display ‘Suspected Spam’, thereby helping customers decide whether to answer the call. Unlike third-party caller ID apps, this feature works natively within Vi’s network, ensuring better accuracy, and enhanced privacy.

This new feature builds on Vi’s existing robust consumer protection measures that now fall under the Vi Protect umbrella, including:

• Spam Filtering of Text Messages: Fraudulent SMS messages are detected and flagged to customers
• International Calling Display: A first of its kind measure in the industry, International Calling Display makes it easier for customers to easily recognise genuine international calls and make informed decisions
• AI-powered Threat Analysis: Integrated with Vi’s DNS, SMS, and Voice Gateways, an analytical engine continuously learns from threat patterns to enhance protection

Thus far, Vi’s security systems have successfully flagged over 600 million spam and scam calls and messages, protecting millions of customers from fraud and data theft. Vi will soon be launching URL Protection in real time: scanning and blocking suspicious links to prevent phishing and malware attacks.

Under Vi Protect, Vi has also introduced an upgraded AI-powered Cyber Defense and Incident Response System to protect its core network and enterprise operations. This defense center uses agentic and generative AI models to detect, analyze, and neutralize potential cyber threats in under an hour, compared to earlier longer response times. The system is nearly 70 percent more accurate and minimizes false positives. The solution follows a five-step defense mechanism including:

• Anomaly Detection: Agentic AI proactively detects abnormal activity
• Contextualization and Categorization: The system classifies incidents using contextual intelligence
• Interface Engine Agent: High-volume data is processed for rapid decision-making
• Suggestive Intelligence: AI prioritizes response actions based on risk levels
• Human Validation: Expert analysts validate AI findings, continuously improving the model

Vi will also extend this capability to its enterprise customers soon, offering predictive insights by co-relating global cyber events and attack timelines.

Through Vi Protect, Vi is reinforcing its commitment to cyber resilience and enhancing customer trust, strengthening its role as a secure and trusted enabler of India’s digital future.

Speaking on Vi Protect, Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vi, said –

With India’s growing digital adoption and global prominence, protecting customers networks has never been more important. Vi Protect uses advanced AI and proactive measures to protect our customers and strengthen our networks. Vi Protect is our commitment to a safe and trusted digital environment.

Vodafone Idea Launches 5G Commercial Service in Bengaluru with Samsung’s Versatile Solutions

Leading telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) today announced the commercial launch of 5G services by partnering with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung) in Bengaluru region, one of the key telecom markets in India and a global IT hub known as the "Silicon Valley of India". Since 2024, the companies have been working together to deploy a new generation, 5G network and modernize Vi's legacy 2G and 4G networks with Samsung's industry-leading solutions in major telecom circles of India including Bihar, Karnataka and Punjab1.

As part of this collaboration, Vi had already launched 5G commercial services in Chandigarh and Patna in April 2025. Vi has successfully deployed Samsung’s small form-factor, energy-efficient and high transmit power radios for enabling a seamless 5G experience across all the three circles. These solutions offer increased cell capacity and energy savings features to deliver better consumer experience with greener and more sustainable approaches for Vi's customers.

For this deployment, Samsung provided its wide range of radios supporting diverse spectrum bands, including 32T32R Massive MIMO radios, along with Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions that encompass baseband and software functions known as the virtualized Central Unit (vCU).

The companies have also implemented the nation's first virtualized Base Station Controller (vBSC), a key network element for 2G services, thereby modernizing its network with cutting-edge software solutions while still ensuring legacy technology and services are supported.

Virtualization of network functionalities enable Vi to streamline network deployment and facilitate easier management, which results in greater efficiency, lower operational costs, better resource allocation control, and increased customer satisfaction. With this virtualization adoption, operators can build software-based and flexible networks more easily, gaining a competitive edge in bringing future networks.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea said: “The launch of Vi’s 5G services in Bengaluru as well as Chandigarh and Patna, marks a key step in introducing Samsung as a new partner in our ecosystem and towards delivering seamless, highly reliable next-generation services to our customers. By partnering with Samsung, our endeavor is to offer the best customer experience and provide our customers with enhanced mobile broadband throughputs and high capacity required in today’s digitally connected world.”

Woojune Kim, President and Head of Networks Business at Samsung Electronics said: “India, especially Bengaluru, stands at the forefront of the global digital transformation, and we are proud to accompany Vi’s innovative journey in delivering next-generation connectivity to its customers in one of the world's most dynamic and advanced IT markets. Samsung always thinks a step ahead, anticipating future needs of mobile operators. Through this collaboration, Samsung is fully committed in supporting Vi to satisfy the demands of mobile users and boost enterprise growth with our innovative spirits."

About Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service providers. The company holds a large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave spectrum in 16 circles. The Company provides Voice and Data services across 2G, 4G and 5G platforms and is expanding 5G services across 17 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the Company is committed to delivering delightful customer experiences and contributing towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The Company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The Company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India.

Vodafone Idea Partners Genesys to Launch CCaaS Platform

Vi Business, the enterprise arm of Vodafone Idea, has partnered with Genesys, a global leader in AI-driven experience orchestration, to launch Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) platform, which aims to provide Indian firms with advanced cloud and telecom solutions.

By combining Vi Business’s robust network infrastructure with AI-powered technology from Genesys, the partnership aims to deliver a cutting-edge, agile solution that accelerates the deployment process, enabling businesses to go live faster.

Late last month, Genesys secured a Unified License Virtual Network Operator (UL VNO) license in India, obtained under Department of Telecommunications (DoT) guidelines, which established Genesys Cloud as the first global Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) platform with a UL VNO license, enabling both domestic and international customers to comply with Indian telecom regulations while accessing secure cloud services and innovative AI solutions for better customer engagement.

Vi Business and Genesys partnership aims to deliver a unified omnichannel customer experience by leveraging Vi Business's robust network infrastructure and Genesys's expertise in AI-powered experience orchestration.

The combined solution enables businesses to deploy contact center operations quickly, reducing time-to-market and minimizing downtime.

The collaboration will enable the provision of cloud-based CCaaS solutions, helping businesses manage customer interactions with advanced, flexible, and scalable options.

This initiative will allow Indian enterprises to adapt to evolving customer needs and utilize cutting-edge technologies without the substantial capital investments associated with traditional contact center setups.

Vodafone Idea (Vi) Ramps up Network Infrastructure to Enhance Data Speed and Coverage for Users in Karnataka

• Upgraded the spectrum in the 2100 MHz band to double the network capacity in this layer
• Acquired additional spectrum in the 900 MHz band through the recent auction in June 2024

Leading telecom operator Vi, today announced advancements in its network infrastructure across Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Tumakuru, to provide faster data speeds for users in these cities. In a press event in the city today, the company shared that it has doubled the capacity of its LTE 2100 MHz band by expanding from 5 MHz to 10 MHz to enable customers with faster network speed and improved internet browsing experiences.

Vi plans to further enhance its network by deploying recently acquired spectrum in the 900 MHz band across the state. This will be used to strengthen indoor coverage, especially in densely populated suburban and rural areas, ensuring improved connectivity and a better user experience.

Reinforcing its commitment to Karnataka, Vi also announced a new service zone in Davanagere to broaden its distribution & service reach within the state. These efforts are part of Vi's commitment to provide superior connectivity and better customer experience across Karnataka, thus ensuring its users benefit from enhanced voice quality and faster data speeds on its best-ever network, Vi GIGAnet.

Vi’s network currently covers close to 85% of the population in Karnataka. Over the past two years, Vi has made upgrades to its core network in Karnataka, ensuring 5G readiness, enabling customers to utilize the benefits of e-SIM, enhancing VoLTE architecture, and rolling out VoWIFI to improve indoor voice services. The company has also expanded its retail presence in the state, with over 140 stores including Vi Stores, Vi Shops, and Vi Mini Stores and has an extensive distribution network in the state with approximately 360 distributors and close to 19,000 recharge outlets to ensure greater service and support for its customers.

Speaking on these developments at the event, Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer, Vi said: “Our objective is o deliver the best network experience to our customers by expanding 4G coverage and enhancing data speed. As customers demand better choices, we have built a digital ecosystem with our partners to offer a differentiated experience. The Vi App serves as a multi-utility platform by offering games, entertainment, cloud gaming, utility bill payments and more.”

The Vi App, a cornerstone of Vi’s digital offerings, provides users with access to over 400 live TV channels, Video on Demand (VoD) content, popular games like Free Fire and Call of Duty, and utility services such as bill payments for electricity, water, LPG, FASTAG recharges, and more.

Vi continues to innovate in meeting customer demands with offerings such as the Vi Hero Unlimited Plan, which provides unlimited night-time (12 am to 6 am) data, unlimited calling, data rollover, and streaming benefits with free OTT subscriptions. The company has also introduced the ‘Choose Your Benefits’ feature for postpaid customers, allowing them to tailor their plans according to their needs.

Some of its most recent offers include:

• Vi Guarantee Program: Vi customers will get 130 GB of guaranteed extra data over one year, with 10 GB data credited automatically every 28 days for 13 consecutive recharge cycles after they opt in through Vi App. This offer is valid for Vi customers with 5G smartphones and who have recently upgraded to a new 4G smartphone on daily data unlimited pack of Rs. 299 or above.
• The renewed RED X Plan in postpaid at a monthly rental of Rs. 1201 provides unlimited data for non-stop surfing, streaming, and connectivity. It gives consumers the choice to subscribe to complimentary offers like Netflix basic plan, 6-month Swiggy One membership, 7-day International Roaming pack, along with Priority customer service across all Vi touchpoints.
• Vi now offers access to Netflix with its two subscription plans priced at Rs. 1198 for 70 days and Rs 1599 for 84 days. These packs offer the special benefits of Hero Unlimited to consumers with the features of 12 am-6 am unlimited data, weekend data rollover and data delight.
• With the growing consumer demands of bringing more entertainment at an affordable price for its users, Vi Movies & TV App now offers access up to 17 OTT platforms and 350 Live TV Channels in one single subscription. It has newly launched two new subscription plans - Vi Movies & TV Plus priced at Rs. 248 per month and Vi Movies & TV Lite priced at Rs. 154 per month.
• Given the popularity of OTT platforms, Vi is expanding its bundling plans. Currently, it offers OTT bundles with Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLiv, and SunNxt and more partnerships are in the pipeline.

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service provider. The company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G, 3G and 4G platforms. Company holds large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mm Wave 5G spectrum in 16 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”. For more information, please visit: www.MyVi.in

UAE's ADIA in Early Talks to Buy Indian Govt's Stake in Vodafone Idea

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) is reportedly in early discussions to acquire the Indian government's stake in Vodafone Idea (VI). This move is part of ADIA's broader strategy to expand its investments in the Indian market. The Indian government currently holds a significant stake in Vodafone Idea, which it acquired through a debt-to-equity conversion to support the financially struggling telecom company.

This potential acquisition aligns with ADIA's recent investment activities in India, including stakes in various sectors such as retail and security. The talks are still at an initial stage, and the outcome will depend on several factors, including the valuation of the stake and the broader economic context.

ADIA, along with the Qatar Investment Authority, Singapore’s Temasek, are some of the sovereign funds, which have been sounded out, according to a report by Financial Express.

Vodafone Idea had said that it is up to the Centre to decide what it wishes to do about its holding, and that the company has had no communication from them on the matter.

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has been actively investing in India across various sectors. ADIA recently invested $8 million in FirstCry, a leading Indian retail platform for baby products, ahead of its IPO.

ADIA also plans to set up a $4-5 billion fund in India through GIFT City in Gujarat. This fund will focus on investments in Indian and foreign equities, debt securities, and other assets.

Besides, ADIA is part of a consortium that submitted a bid to acquire a controlling stake in Haldiram's, a popular Indian snacks business, valuing it at up to $8.5 billion.

ADIA has also made significant investments in India's retail and security sectors, reflecting its confidence in the country's economic growth and potential.

These investments highlight ADIA's strategic focus on India as a key market for growth and diversification.

Vodafone Idea Converts ATC India’s OCDs Worth ₹1,600 Crore for 0.2% Equity

Vodafone Idea (Vi) , a debt-laden telecom operator, has recently issued optionally convertible debentures (OCDs) worth ₹1,600 crore to ATC Telecom Infrastructure Pvt Ltd (ATC) against its dues.

OCDs are a type of debt instrument issued by companies. The OCDs carry an option for the holder to convert them into equity shares at a predetermined price. Essentially, they combine features of both debt and equity.

ATC India requested Vi to convert the remaining 1,600 OCDs (out of the 16,000 originally issued) into equity shares. Vi agreed to convert these OCDs into 160 million fully paid equity shares, resulting in a tiny 0.2% stake for ATC India.

Vi had issued 16,000 Optionally Convertible Debentures (OCDs) to the American Tower Company (ATC) against the amount it owed to the telecom infrastructure company. Of these, 14,400 OCDs have already been converted into equity shares. This stake was sold by ATC India at an average price of Rs 12.78 per share. Thereafter, ATC had requested the conversion of the remaining 1,600 OCDs into equity shares as well. This move aims to reduce Vodafone Idea's debt and strengthen its financial position.

Earlier, Vi shareholders approved a preferential issue of OCDs to Nokia and Ericsson, further aiding the telco's financial stability.

This move strengthens the financial position of Vodafone Idea and aligns with its strategic goals. ATC India is a tower infrastructure company that provides services to telecom operators. By converting ATC India's debt into equity, Vodafone Idea may enhance its operational capabilities and reduce financial burden

By converting debt to equity, Vi reduces its outstanding debt obligations. The converted OCDs no longer represent a liability on Vi's balance sheet. However, Vi's overall debt position remains substantial, with total debt estimated at around ₹2,07,630 crore as of March 31, 2024.

About ATC India, it is one of the leading independent Passive Telecom Infrastructure Providers in India. ATC India, an indirectly-held subsidiary of American Tower Corporation (NYSE: AMT), launched operations in India in 2007. The company's portfolio has expanded to approximately 75,000 Towers across the country.

ATC India builds telecom sites and provides colocation opportunities for all major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Their towers support the networks of almost all mobile service providers, enhancing coverage and capacity.

Vodafone Idea Proposes Borrowing Rs 23,000 Cr from Banks in Term Loans and Another Rs 10,000 Cr in Bank Guarantees

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has put forth a proposal to borrow ₹23,000 crore in term loans from banks and has also requested an additional ₹10,000 crore in bank guarantees, said a report by Economic Times (ET). This move is part of Vi's efforts to raise capital for enhancing its telecom infrastructure and competing with larger rivals such as Reliance Jio and Airtel.

The requested funds are a portion of the ₹55,000 crore in capital expenditures that Vi aims to raise to expand 4G coverage and initiate greenfield 5G rollouts in strategic markets. If approved, this financial boost will help Vi strengthen its position in the competitive telecom market.

In its presentation to lenders, Vi said it needs the money to upgrade its mobile broadband network infrastructure in its 17 priority markets.

Citing people familiar with the matter, the ET report said that, Vi submitted the term loan proposal at a meeting of a State Bank of India (SBI)-led banking consortium a few days ago.

Further, the banks will now seek a techno-economic viability (TEV) report from a top consultancy firm to assess Vi’s credit-worthiness before taking a call on sanctioning the loan. A Techno-Economic Viability (TEV) study is a comprehensive examination of a project's financial viability and technical components. It's a risk mitigation exercise that banks and financial institutions often perform before making lending decisions.

This move is part of Vi's efforts to raise capital for enhancing its telecom infrastructure and competing with larger rivals such as Reliance Jio and Airtel. The requested funds are a portion of the ₹55,000 crore in capital expenditures that Vi aims to raise to expand 4G coverage and initiate greenfield 5G rollouts in strategic markets. If approved, this financial boost will help Vi strengthen its position in the competitive telecom market.

The impact of Vi's proposed borrowing on its financial health depends on several factors. Borrowing ₹23,000 crore in term loans will result in interest payments. Vi will need to manage these costs effectively to avoid straining its financials.

Increasing debt affects Vi's debt-to-equity ratio. If the company's equity base remains stable, higher debt could lead to a higher ratio, potentially affecting investor confidence. Vi must ensure it has sufficient liquidity to meet debt obligations. If cash flows are strained, servicing debt could become challenging. The borrowed funds are intended for infrastructure expansion. If Vi successfully enhances its network and services, it could boost revenue and improve financial health.

Vi faces intense competition from Jio and Airtel. The borrowed capital should be strategically deployed to gain a competitive edge. Vi's credit rating may be impacted. A downgrade could increase borrowing costs and affect investor perception.

In summary, Vi's financial health will depend on prudent management of borrowed funds, efficient utilization, and successful execution of expansion plans

Vodafone Idea to Raise Rs 2,458 Crore through Share Sale to Nokia and Ericsson

Vodafone Idea is set to raise Rs 2,458 crore through a share sale to Nokia and Ericsson to clear its outstanding dues, a regulatory filing said on Thursday.

Nokia will acquire a 1.5% stake in Vodafone Idea for Rs 1,520 crore. Ericsson will obtain a 0.9% stake for Rs 938 crore. The shares will be allocated on a preferential basis and come with a six-month lock-in period. This move will allow Vodafone Idea to clear part of their outstanding dues to these vendors.

The board of Vodafone Idea Ltd (VIL) has cleared allotment of shares on preferential basis at about 35 per cent higher price compared to the follow-on offer price of the company, and comes with a lock-in of 6 months.

The transaction is subject to approval by Vodafone Idea's shareholders at the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for July 10, 2024. This strategic step is significant for Vodafone Idea as it continues to strengthen its financial position and network capabilities.

To recall, in April ATC Telecom Infrastructure Pvt Ltd sold its entire stake in Vodafone Idea. ATC Telecom sold a total of 144 crore shares, representing a 2.87% stake in Vodafone Idea. The shares were disposed of at an average price of Rs 12.78 apiece, resulting in a deal size of Rs 1,840.32 crore.

The stake acquisition in Vodafone Idea by Nokia and Ericsson is a strategic move that could have several impacts. Both companies are investing a significant amount of money, with Nokia acquiring a 1.5% stake for Rs 1,520 crore and Ericsson a 0.9% stake for Rs 938 crore. This investment could potentially yield financial returns if Vodafone Idea's stock price appreciates.

"Nokia and Ericsson both have a long-term partnership with VIL, as key suppliers of network equipment, and this preferential allotment will enable VIL to clear part of their outstanding dues," the filing by Vodafone Idea said.

By acquiring stakes in Vodafone Idea, Nokia and Ericsson are deepening their presence in the Indian telecom market, which is one of the largest in the world. This could enhance their influence and bargaining power in the industry.

The deal indicates a strengthening of the long-term partnership between Vodafone Idea and the two equipment vendors. It could lead to more collaboration on future projects, especially in areas like 5G technology and network expansion.

The transaction allows Vodafone Idea to clear part of their outstanding dues to Nokia and Ericsson, which could improve the financial health of the telecom operator and ensure the continuity of services from these vendors.

For Nokia and Ericsson, this move could be seen as a vote of confidence in Vodafone Idea's future, potentially adding value to their shareholders if the telecom operator's performance improves. The stakes could lead to operational synergies, allowing Nokia and Ericsson to integrate their technologies more closely with Vodafone Idea's network, potentially leading to improved network performance and customer experience.

Overall, the impact of this stake acquisition will depend on various factors, including the future performance of Vodafone Idea, market conditions, and the companies' ability to leverage this partnership to create value. It's a multifaceted decision with potential benefits and risks for both Nokia and Ericsson. 

Vodafone Idea Board Approves Raising Rs 2075 Cr Funds from Aditya Birla Group

The board of Vodafone Idea (Vi) has approved a plan to raise Rs 2,075 crore from the Aditya Birla Group through a preferential share issue. This move is part of a broader strategy to raise capital of Rs 20,000 crore for the Vi's operations and reduce its debt burden. The board also approved an increase in the authorized share capital of the company to Rs 1 lakh crore.

This funding is crucial for the telecom company's revival and is expected to help in repaying vendors, strengthening its 4G network, and funding the launch of 5G services. The capital infusion is expected to have a significant impact on Vodafone Idea's services.

The funds will help the company pay off its dues, which could improve its financial health and creditworthiness. It will enable Vodafone Idea to expand and improve its 4G network, which is crucial for retaining existing customers and attracting new ones.

Notably, very recently it is being reported that Vi is renewing its technology outsourcing agreement with IBM. The deal is estimated to be around $1 billion and is part of Vi's strategy to strengthen its IT infrastructure as it prepares to roll out 5G services in India's top 100 cities across its 17 priority markets

Part of the capital is likely to be allocated for the rollout of 5G services, allowing the company to compete with other operators who are already advancing in this area. 

In addition, the infusion of funds should help Vi in making meaningful EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization), which is important for the company's operational sustainability.

However, challenges remain, such as debt servicing and government payouts, which the company needs to manage effectively. The overall goal is to ensure survival and prevent a duopoly in the telecom sector.

Vodafone Idea Limited, known as Vi, was created on 31 August 2018 by the merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular. Before the merger, Vodafone Group held a 45.2% stake in the combined entity, and the Aditya Birla Group held 26%. The remaining shares were held by the public.

After the merger, the company rebranded as Vi in 2020. Prior to its merger with Vodafone India, Idea Cellular was a subsidiary of the Aditya Birla Group, which became a joint venture with AT&T Corporation and later with the Tata Group before they exited the venture.

Vodafone Idea (Vi) is Reportedly Renewing Its Tech Outsourcing Deal with IBM, Worth $1 Billion

Vodafone Idea (Vi) is said to be renewing its technology outsourcing agreement with IBM. The deal is estimated to be around $1 billion and is part of Vi's strategy to strengthen its IT infrastructure as it prepares to roll out 5G services in India's top 100 cities across its 17 priority markets, reported Economic Times citing people privy with the matter.

This renewal is crucial for Vi to enhance its competition with other major telecom operators and to improve customer retention. The board of Vi is also considering a capital raise of Rs 20,000 crore through a preferential share issue.

Portions of the renewed deal will be based on a 'pay-as-you-go' model, which could provide more flexibility and scalability for Vi's services.

The renewal of the technology outsourcing pact between Vodafone Idea (Vi) and IBM is expected to have a significant impact on Vi's services. The deal will help Vi strengthen its IT infrastructure, which is crucial for the planned rollout of 5G services in India's top 100 cities across its 17 priority markets.

If the renewal deal materialise, IBM is likely to manage, maintain, and operate Vi's IT infrastructure and offer tech solutions around cloud computing and customer experience, which should lead to an improved customer experience. The use of modernisation and intelligent automation of data centres using AI is expected to unlock cost and operational efficiencies, boosting productivity levels at Vi.

Overall, this renewal is poised to provide Vi with the necessary technological support to compete effectively in the market and improve its service offerings to customers.

The entry of Reliance Jio has disrupted the market with its aggressive pricing strategies, causing a seismic shift in consumer preferences. Vi has been grappling with financial issues, including a heavy debt burden, which has limited its ability to invest in network infrastructure and expand services. The company has seen a decline in its Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and subscriber base, leading to reduced revenue.

Facing the harsh competition from duopoly of Reliance Jio and Airtel, Vodafone Idea (Vi) is actively exploring various partnerships to enhance its digital offerings and enterprise solutions. Vi has partnered with several content creators and over-the-top (OTT) content providers such as ZEE5, Shemaroo Me, Hungama, YuppTV, and others to enrich its digital services on the MyVi mobile application.

The telco also has product bundling tie-ups with Amazon Prime, Disney Hotstar, Sun NXT, and Sony LIV for its premium customers. It also allied with Hungama Music to launch its music streaming service on the MyVi app, competing with other major music streaming services.

Besides, Vi has entered the e-sports segment by partnering with Gamerji and has also collaborated with Nazara Technologies for mobile games, offering over 1,200 games to users.

Vi has partnered with Xiaomi India to offer enhanced 5G experiences to users. A range of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones have been tested and will be supported on Vi's 5G network post-launch.

In addition, Vi has entered into strategic partnerships with Hubbler, Eunimart, and Fiskl to strengthen its enterprise offerings, especially for small and medium organizations

These partnerships are part of Vi's strategy to transform into a comprehensive techco, offering a wide array of digital products and services to address the needs of today's digital society and enterprise customers.