Mukesh Ambani's JioPC turns your TV into an AI computer, here's how

India Today

2 days ago

India's largest telecom company, Jio, is taking another big step in tech innovation. This time around, the company has introduced JioPC — a cloud-based virtual desktop service that runs through its set-top box. The idea is simple: turn any TV connected to a Jio set-top box into a full-fledged personal computer. With millions of households across the country owning a TV but not a PC, this could be a pretty big deal. All it takes is a keyboard and mouse plugged into the set-top box, and once your invite is approved, you can access a complete desktop interface right on your television. Since it works through the cloud, it can also power basic AI features in future — like smart document tools, virtual learning apps, and more. This service is currently in a free trial and available via waitlist.advertisementJioPC offers a desktop experience designed for day-to-day computing tasks — be it browsing the web, attending online classes, or using office apps. The set-top box itself comes bundled free with JioFiber broadband plans or can be bought separately for Rs 5,499. The service includes LibreOffice, an open-source alternative to Microsoft Office. While native support for Microsoft apps isn't built-in, users can access them via the browser. It's still early days, and there are limitations for now. Devices like cameras and printers are not yet supported, but for basic use cases, the system seems ready.According to a report by TechCrunch, Jio is aiming to increase its already massive user base of 488 million by offering PC functionality at minimal cost. Tarun Pathak from Counterpoint Research notes that this could be an effective way to reach under-penetrated markets. Around 70 per cent of Indian homes have a TV, but only about 15 per cent own a computer. With internet connectivity improving, JioPC could find traction in rural and lower-income households where affordability has always been a concern.
Of course, there's promise, but also a few things to fix. The lack of support for external peripherals and the need to rely on web apps for full productivity tools could limit the experience. However, as a first big move into the AI PC space for regular users — not just enterprises — JioPC is definitely a big step as we advance.Still, the success of JioPC will depend on how well Jio communicates its value to people who may not be familiar with the idea of a cloud PC. As per government data, there are currently close to 57 million active pay-TV users in India. However, the DTH market is slowly shrinking due to the rise of streaming platforms, so this could also be Jio's way of keeping users on its platform.- Ends