Jio to target PC market with Rs 15,000 cloud laptop

Reliance Jio, led by Mukesh Ambani, is in discussions with major manufacturers such as HP, Acer, and Lenovo to launch a cloud laptop in the Indian market. The laptop, expected to cost around Rs 15,000, will operate as a "dumb terminal," with all storage and processing tasks handled by the Jio cloud.

This approach aims to reduce ownership costs, currently averaging around Rs 50,000 while providing users with high-speed access to services.

Sources indicate that Jio is currently conducting trials with HP Chromebook for the proposed cloud PC. The company plans to offer a monthly subscription for the cloud PC, with pricing to be finalised later. Users who prefer not to purchase a new device can install the cloud PC software on any desktop or smart TV to access computing features.

An official explained that the cloud PC concept involves stripping away hardware components like memory, processing power, and chipset, shifting the entire processing load to the Jio cloud. This innovative approach allows Jio to offer a cost-effective solution to consumers.

This initiative marks Jio's second entry into the laptop market, following the introduction of JioBook earlier this year, a 4G-powered laptop priced at Rs 16,499. While the JioBook operated on the JioOS system, the upcoming cloud PC is expected to run on different operating systems, including Windows.

With a focus on establishing a presence in the digital services market, Jio aims to provide secure environments for data assets, particularly in the context of the growing trend of hybrid workplaces. The company is strategically prioritising ubiquitous connectivity before expanding its digital services, anticipating incremental revenue.