RCom's 3G is cheaper than 2G data prices

Reliance Communications today went a step ahead, reducing its 3G data prices to a tad lower than their 2G prices. While 1GB of data download via 3G will cost Rs 123, the same data download through 2G will cost Rs 125, it said in a press release.

This new offer is applicable to both post-paid and pre-paid segments, targeting smartphone and tablet. The dual-technology operator said that they are looking to bag high-value customers from other telcos via this plan. The operator has 3G operations across 13 circles.

RCom calls its plan 'game changing', and says that it will aim aims at 40% share of fast-growing smartphone market. The price of downloading 2G of data would cost Rs 246, while 4GB will cost Rs 492.

“This is an inherent part of RCom’s objective to take high-speed data services to every smartphone and tablet user in the country, without them worrying about incremental or high costs. By breaking the 3G entry barrier, we plan to bring about a behavioral change and take the benefits of quick data access to everyone and impact not just lives, but lifestyles as well,” said Gurdeep Singh, President and Chief Executive Officer, Wireless, Reliance Communications.

In May last year, top three telecom companies Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India and Idea Cellular slashed their 3G prices by almost 80%, shedding the 'premium' tag of the high-speed data service. Recently, other operators like Vodafone slashed its 2G data rates by around 80% in select circles, Tata DoCoMo too cut the prices of both 2G and 3G services, last month.

The stock of Reliance Communications went up by around one% to Rs 144, at 1:30 pm.