Reliance Jio has launched JioPC, a virtual desktop service that brings an AI-ready cloud PC to Indian homes. It works via the Jio Set-Top Box (STB), and you need a JioFiber or JioAirFiber connection, a keyboard, a mouse, and a TV or monitor screen to turn it into a full-fledged computer. JioPC service is available across India, starting at Rs 400 per month with no lock-in. It also has no upfront hardware cost, unlike a traditional PC or laptop. JioPC is aimed at students, home users, professionals, and small businesses with an affordable, maintenance-free access to computing.
The setup is also straightforward. You need to subscribe to a plan from MyJio, Jio.com, Reliance Digital, JioMart Digital, or local Jio stores. Then, open the JioPC app on your Jio Set-Top Box (priced at Rs 5,499). To open and access JioPC, you have to plug in a keyboard and mouse. You will have to sign in with your Jio number or register. That’s it. You should now be able to use the virtual computer after following these steps.
The Linux-based Ubuntu OS is paired with a 4-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 100GB of base cloud storage (expandable up to 512GB in higher-tier plans), and network-level security. Jio mentions that the platform brings AI tools and free Adobe Express. During the 1-month free trial period, you will also get Jio Workspace and Microsoft Office (browser version).
You can learn more about the various plans and frequently asked questions, such as “What happens if the internet disconnects?” here.
Who is JioPC for?
For users who need a reliable, no-maintenance PC for web-based work, school projects, or light office tasks, JioPC could make sense. You avoid the upfront Rs 25,000–50,000 cost of buying a new computer, and you don’t need to worry about updates or repairs. However, it’s not meant for offline use or resource-heavy tasks like video editing or gaming. Also, it relies entirely on stable connectivity. Users in areas with poor internet connectivity may face issues.
JioPC reflects Reliance’s broader strategy to deepen its digital ecosystem by turning broadband customers into subscribers of value-added services. Similar to how JioCinema and JioTV scaled up through content tie-ups, Reliance Jio is now bundling productivity and AI tools with connectivity. By promoting a subscription-first, no-ownership model, Jio is betting that Indian users, especially in second-tier cities and rural areas, may adopt the service for its affordable access.
Globally, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon already offer similar cloud-based PC services to the business and education sectors. JioPC is one of the first attempts to bring this model directly to Indian households at a consumer-friendly price. If Jio can maintain speed, uptime, and responsive performance, JioPC could push local adoption of cloud-first computing, while also becoming a meaningful part of its digital strategy and perhaps pushing its competitors to offer similar solutions.
