JioPhone created a huge buzz among gadget enthusiasts as it became the cheapest 4G phone. The company boasted that the device will effectively be free as they will refund the security deposit (Rs. 1500) after three years. Means, nobody can get their hands on the phone with zero money.
Once you get the device, you will have to recharge for at least Rs. 1500 per annum for three consecutive years. In any case, you fail to do so, the phone will stop functioning.
You know you can get your money back on returning JioPhone after three years (or 36 months). The offer stays alive only for the three months after the completion of three years. Means, you will not be eligible for the money back offer after 39 months from the date of purchase of the phone.
Is it possible for you to keep the phone without recharging? No, you can’t. The company reserves the right to recall such devices with the penalty. In short, if you keep the device without recharging, you will be forced to pay the penalty.
Digging deep, we also found out that under Reliance Retail Limited policy, Jio and its agents can collect data (including location), which can be used to identify users. The company says they want to improve the location-based services and products using such data. Moreover, it also collects the voice command details as well.
So, can you spend 6000 INR in a period of three years (1500 on delivery, and 1500 per annum for three consecutive years)? Then, you can opt for JioPhone (If you can spend that much in one go, I suggest you go for a smartphone instead).
