Jio Platforms is in discussions with US cable operators Comcast and Charter Communications over the possible licensing of its proprietary unlicensed band radio (UBR) technology, according to a Reuters report cited by Inc42. The talks are part of Jio’s plans to take its wireless broadband platform to international markets through partnerships rather than building networks overseas.
No agreement has been announced with either US company, and there is no confirmed timeline for a deal. The discussions indicate that Jio is exploring a technology-licensing model in which international operators could use its platform while Jio avoids directly constructing broadband networks in those markets.
How Jio’s UBR platform works
Jio’s UBR system operates over free, unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies. According to the report, transmitters placed on nearby towers or rooftops send internet signals to receivers installed on buildings. The approach is intended to deliver high-speed broadband without running cables separately to individual homes.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology | Proprietary unlicensed band radio (UBR) |
| Operating spectrum | Free, unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies |
| Deployment method | Transmitters on towers or rooftops send signals to building-mounted receivers |
| Reported target | 10–15 global partners |
The platform is positioned as an alternative to extending fixed broadband through cable connections to every home or relying on licensed mobile spectrum. Reliance has described UBR as a global first, although the reported discussions with Comcast and Charter remain exploratory and do not establish that either operator will deploy the technology.
Jio is seeking multiple overseas partners
Jio is reportedly targeting 10–15 global partners for UBR. The company has also held discussions with South Africa’s MTN Group, but those talks ended after the parties could not resolve valuation and licensing matters. One person cited in the report said MTN was unable to persuade Jio to invest at a valuation acceptable to the Indian company.
The MTN discussions show that Jio’s international expansion plans may involve more than a straightforward technology sale. The company is considering arrangements that could combine licensing with potential equity stakes, although the terms under discussion with Comcast and Charter have not been disclosed.
What the talks mean for Jio’s international strategy
Jio Platforms has built its domestic business around digital services and connectivity, while the UBR initiative gives it a route to commercialise network technology outside India. Licensing could allow foreign operators to test the platform within their existing infrastructure rather than requiring Jio to operate a full telecom network in each country.
For now, the discussions remain unconfirmed negotiations. Inc42 reported that it contacted Jio Platforms, Comcast and Charter Communications for comments. The reported talks therefore should not be read as a launch, partnership announcement or indication that UBR is being deployed in the US. Any commercial arrangement would depend on the companies agreeing on licensing terms, valuation and the scope of deployment.
