Next Story
Newszop

What is Mukesh Ambani's JioPC? A smart technology that turns TV into computer

Send Push
Indiatimespublisher-detail-arrow
14th July, 2025 14:07 IST

Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries and one of India’s wealthiest businessmen, has launched a new and smart technology called JioPC. Developed by Jio Platforms, this service can turn ordinary televisions across India into fully working personal computers. With JioPC, your regular TV can now be used for studying, working, or even creative tasks, making modern technology available to more people. In this article, we’ll explain what JioPC is, how it works, its features, pros and cons, and why it could change India’s digital future.

What is JioPC?

JioPC is a cloud-based virtual desktop service. It lets you turn your television into a computer by using Jio’s set-top box. By connecting a keyboard and mouse to the set-top box, your TV screen becomes a virtual desktop. You can browse the internet, use apps for work or school, attend online classes, or even work from home—directly from your TV.

This service is meant to make computers more affordable and accessible, especially for people who don’t have a traditional PC or laptop. Currently, JioPC is available as a free trial, but you need to join a waiting list and get an invite to use it. The required set-top box comes free with Jio’s home broadband plans, or you can buy it separately for Rs 5,499.

How Does JioPC Work?

Setting up JioPC is easy and involves a few simple steps:

  • Open the JioPC App: Turn on your TV connected to a Jio set-top box. Go to the apps section and click on the JioPC icon.
  • Connect Keyboard and Mouse: Plug your keyboard and mouse into the USB ports of the Jio box. Bluetooth devices can also be used if supported.
  • Set Up Your Account: After receiving your invite, your account details will load automatically. Just click “Continue”.
  • Start Using JioPC: Click “Launch Now” to open your virtual desktop and start using it for work, learning or other tasks.

Since JioPC is powered by the cloud, all computing is done through Jio’s servers—not on your TV or set-top box. This means it’s secure, always up to date, and doesn’t need expensive hardware or software upgrades.

Key Features of JioPC

JioPC offers a variety of useful features that make your TV act like a computer:

  • Cloud Computing: No need for a physical PC—everything works through the cloud.
  • Pre-installed Software: Includes LibreOffice for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.
  • Online Microsoft Office: Access tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint via a web browser.
  • Internet Access: Browse the web, attend classes, or watch educational content on your TV.
  • AI-Ready: Built to support upcoming artificial intelligence apps.
  • No Extra Equipment Needed: Just a Jio set-top box, keyboard, and mouse.
Benefits of JioPC

JioPC could bring a big change to digital access in India. While around 70% of Indian households have a TV, only 15% own a PC. JioPC aims to close this gap. Here's how:

  • Budget-Friendly: JioPC is a low-cost way to get a computer experience at home.
  • Easily Available: Comes free with Jio broadband plans or costs Rs 5,499 on its own.
  • Easy to Use: No tech skills needed—just plug in and start.
  • Helps Rural and Low-Income Families: Ideal for students, small businesses, and families in remote areas.
  • Low-Maintenance and Secure: Cloud technology means no need for repairs or updates—everything runs smoothly.
Limitations of JioPC

Although JioPC is an exciting new technology, it does have a few drawbacks in its early stage:

  • No Support for Extra Devices: At the moment, JioPC doesn’t work with external gadgets like webcams or printers. This means you can’t use it for things like video calls or printing documents.
  • Invite-Only Access: Only people who get an invitation can use the service right now, which could mean a longer wait for others.
  • Needs Internet to Work: JioPC relies heavily on a steady internet connection. This could be a problem in villages or areas with poor network coverage.
  • Limited Apps: It can run LibreOffice and web-based Microsoft Office, but there’s a need for more apps and software options to boost productivity.
Why JioPC Could Be a Game-Changer

JioPC is a major move to bring technology within reach for millions of Indians. With over 488 million Jio users and a wide fibre network, Reliance can offer this service across the country. Here’s what makes it special:

  • Bridging the Tech Gap: Only about 15% of Indian homes have a personal computer. JioPC uses the fact that 70% of households already own a TV to turn it into an affordable computer alternative.
  • Helping Communities: JioPC is designed for people in rural areas or those with low incomes. It gives them new chances for learning, working from home, and starting small businesses.
  • Affordable Pricing: Reliance is known for low-cost services, like its cheap 4G plans. JioPC could also be cost-effective, especially since the set-top box comes free with a broadband plan.
  • Huge Potential Reach: Around 57 million homes in India use pay-TV set-top boxes. This gives JioPC a large potential audience, although spreading awareness and providing digital training will be important.
Challenges and Future Growth

Even though JioPC shows great promise, there are a few hurdles to clear:

  • Digital Skills: Many users, especially in villages, may not know how to use a TV like a computer. Some basic training will be needed.
  • Internet Access: A strong internet connection is vital for cloud-based systems like JioPC. Jio has a solid fibre network, but coverage in rural areas still needs improvement.
  • Spreading the Word: People need to be shown how a TV can be used as a computer. Good marketing and awareness campaigns will be key.

Despite these issues, JioPC has great potential. As Jio works with more software developers and improves internet access, it could add more useful tools for work and education. This would make JioPC a powerful and affordable option for students, families, and small businesses across India.

For the latest and more interesting tech news, keep reading Indiatimes Tech.

You may also like

NewsPointGenZNewsPointVideosNewsPointGamesNewsPointCricket
Loving Newspoint? Download the app now