Ambani's Jio explores tech-for-equity talks with Comcast and Charter, sources say
Jio Platforms has held talks with Comcast and Charter about licensing its wireless broadband technology in exchange for potential stakes, two people familiar with the matter said. Jio is seeking 10 to 15 global partners, while earlier discussions with South Africa’s MTN broke down over valuation and licensing issues.
1. Technology partnership talks
Jio Platforms has held talks with Comcast and Charter about licensing its wireless broadband technology in exchange for potential stakes in the businesses, two people familiar with the matter said. There is no timetable for a deal with any of the companies Jio has approached. Comcast and Charter declined to comment.
2. Jio’s expansion plans
Jio said last week it was targeting 10 to 15 global partners for its unlicensed band radio technology, which beams broadband from transmitters on towers or rooftops to receivers on buildings. The company says its UBR-powered users exceed 6.5 million. Jio is seeking overseas growth by selling its technology to foreign operators rather than building its own networks abroad.
3. US broadband market
Comcast had about 28.3 million residential broadband customers at the end of September, while Charter had about 29.4 million internet customers in June; both have been losing customers to fixed wireless and fiber. One person familiar with the matter said talks with South Africa’s MTN broke down because the sides could not agree on valuation and certain licensing issues.
