On March 26, 2025, Bharti Airtel launched its Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) services across 2,000 cities in India, marking a significant expansion in the home entertainment sector for the telecom giant. The new service allows customers to access a vast library of on-demand content from 29 popular streaming applications, including Netflix, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, SonyLiv, and Zee5, in addition to 600 television channels and high-speed Wi-Fi.
The IPTV plans are designed to cater to a range of consumer needs, starting at Rs 699. As part of an introductory offer, Airtel is providing up to 30 days of free service to all customers who purchase an IPTV plan through the Airtel Thanks App. This initiative aims to attract users to the new service while enhancing their viewing experience.
Siddharth Sharma, CEO of Connected Homes and Chief Marketing Officer at Bharti Airtel, commented on the launch, stating, "The launch heralds a new era in home entertainment where cutting-edge technology seamlessly blends traditional linear TV with a bouquet of streaming apps for an immersive digital experience for customers. Backed by Airtel’s high-speed Wi-Fi, we are certain that consumers will have a fantastic converged home experience with Airtel IPTV." This statement underscores Airtel's commitment to delivering a modern entertainment solution that meets the evolving demands of its customer base.
The IPTV service is available across India, with the exception of Delhi, Rajasthan, Assam, and the Northeastern states, where Airtel plans to launch the service in the coming weeks. This rollout positions Airtel as the second telecom operator in India to offer IPTV services, following BSNL, which introduced similar services in December 2024.
Airtel's IPTV plans are structured to provide various options based on internet speed and content access:
- Rs 699 Plan: 40 Mbps speed, access to 26 streaming apps, and 350 TV channels.
- Rs 899 Plan: 100 Mbps speed, access to 26 streaming apps, and 350 TV channels.
- Rs 1,099 Plan: 200 Mbps speed, access to 28 streaming apps (including Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime), and 350 TV channels.
- Rs 1,599 Plan: 300 Mbps speed, access to 29 streaming apps (including Netflix, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime), and 350 TV channels.
- Rs 3,999 Plan: 1 Gbps speed, access to 29 streaming apps (including Netflix, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime), and 350 TV channels.
With these plans, Airtel aims to provide a comprehensive entertainment package that combines high-speed internet with a wide range of viewing options. This integration of broadband and IPTV services is seen as a strategic move to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Customers interested in subscribing to Airtel's IPTV can do so by visiting the Airtel website or any Airtel store. New customers can purchase the IPTV service by signing up for new Airtel Wi-Fi plans, while existing customers can upgrade their current plans to include IPTV services through the Airtel Thanks App. This flexibility is designed to ensure that all customers can easily access the new offerings.
In addition to the extensive content available, Airtel's IPTV service leverages the advantages of IPTV technology, which delivers content over the internet rather than traditional cable methods. This allows users to enjoy their favorite shows and movies on various devices, including TVs, laptops, and smartphones, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The competitive landscape in the Indian IPTV market is heating up, with Airtel now joining the ranks of providers offering advanced home entertainment solutions. As consumers continue to seek more integrated and flexible viewing options, Airtel's launch of IPTV services could significantly reshape the way content is consumed in India.
In summary, Airtel's IPTV service represents a significant advancement in the home entertainment sector, providing customers with a blend of high-speed internet and access to a wealth of content from leading streaming platforms. With competitive pricing and an attractive introductory offer, Airtel is well-positioned to capture a substantial share of the growing IPTV market in India.
