Reliance Jio has expanded its JioPC cloud computer service to internet users across India, allowing people to access a virtual computer without replacing their existing hardware.
Originally introduced for Jio broadband subscribers in July 2025, JioPC is now available as a standalone subscription to users irrespective of their telecom or broadband provider.
Old computers get a new lease of life
JioPC streams a virtual computer from the company’s cloud infrastructure to an existing device. Its plans offer up to eight virtual CPUs, 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.
The company says the service can help computers as old as eight years run modern applications, including AI tools, without requiring hardware upgrades.
Plans start at Rs 1,000 for two months. A 12-month plan costs Rs 4,000 for 8GB RAM and 500GB storage, while the higher configuration with 16GB RAM and 1TB storage costs Rs 5,000.
Jio challenges India’s PC upgrade cycle
India had more than 65 million PCs in use in 2025, according to IDC estimates. The research firm expects the installed base to approach 69 million by the end of 2026.
Consumers and small businesses are increasingly keeping computers for five to six years instead of replacing them every four to five years. Jio is betting that cloud computing can extend these lifecycles further.
Industry analysts said JioPC could appeal to students, households and price-sensitive users who may not otherwise consider buying a new AI-capable computer.
However, the model faces challenges. JioPC requires a reliable internet connection, while refurbished computers offer consumers another affordable way to own hardware.
The service also raises questions about whether users will embrace recurring subscriptions instead of purchasing computers outright. Its success could depend on whether cloud-based computing becomes an everyday necessity rather than simply a workaround for older machines.