Jio launches OTT messaging app, Jio Chat

Upstart newcomer Reliance Jio Infocomm (RJIL) is paving the way for the full commercial launch of its 4G network with the introduction of an over-the-top (OTT) messaging app, dubbed Jio Chat, for iOS and Android phones, the Economic Times writes. In addition to the new app, RJIL is reportedly lining up other additional offerings, such as a TV app – Jio Play – and as-yet-unnamed health, ecommerce and finance apps. Jio Chat allows users to send free messages to other Jio users, as well as SMS messages to non-Jio Chat users, although these incur a fee of INR0.02 (USD0.00032). An unnamed source close to the matter was quoted as saying: ‘Jio is hoping that the experience of using these services will differentiates its 4G service from rival networks.’ Credit Suisse, meanwhile, claimed that the OTT launch suggested that RJIL was preparing to launch its network in the next few months, in contrast to recent rumours that the operator would be delaying the inauguration until mid-2016.