Airtel has kicked off 2025 by launching two updated prepaid plans designed to enhance voice and SMS services, while scaling back on data offerings. This shift aligns with new directives from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) that prioritize voice and messaging features in prepaid plans. These changes cater to users who rely more on communication services than mobile data.
Airtel Rs 499 Prepaid Plan: Optimized for Calling and Messaging
The newly introduced Rs 499 prepaid plan offers 84 days of validity, with unlimited voice calls and 900 SMS, making it an ideal choice for users who focus on voice communication and texting. The previous Rs 509 plan that included 6GB of mobile data has been revised, eliminating data services to better align with customer needs for basic communication.
Although the data benefit is no longer included, subscribers can still enjoy perks such as complimentary access to Airtel Xstream for entertainment, Apollo 24/7 Circle for healthcare, and customizable Hello Tunes, adding value beyond voice and messaging services.
For users who require some data, Airtel is also offering a Rs 569 plan. This plan includes all the features of the Rs 499 plan but comes with an additional 6GB of mobile data.
Airtel Rs 1,959 Annual Plan: Emphasis on Voice and SMS
Airtel’s Rs 1,959 annual recharge plan, aimed at long-term subscribers, has also undergone changes. While it continues to offer unlimited voice calls and 3,600 SMS over 365 days, the plan no longer includes the 24GB of data that was part of the previous Rs 1,999 plan. The update reflects Airtel’s new strategy, focusing more on voice and messaging services, while data is now excluded from the bundle.
Customers subscribing to the Rs 1,959 plan still get value-added services like Airtel Xstream app access, Apollo 24/7 Circle membership for healthcare assistance, and free Hello Tunes.
What’s Driving the Changes?
These updates are part of Airtel’s compliance with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) new mandate for Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs), which now must primarily prioritize voice and SMS services. In response to this regulatory shift, Airtel is cutting back on bundled data and encouraging customers to purchase standalone data packs or look for plans that offer unlimited data.
Customers who exceed their SMS limits will face charges of Rs 1 for local messages and Rs 1.5 for STD messages, further incentivizing them to manage their messaging usage within the allotted limits.
A Shift Towards Affordability and Communication Services
With these changes, Airtel is targeting users who prioritize affordable communication services over data-heavy plans. By removing data from the most affordable plans, the telecom giant ensures that voice and messaging services remain at the forefront, while still providing flexibility for users who need mobile data on top of their communication benefits. This shift is a response to both regulatory changes and evolving customer preferences, aiming to meet the diverse needs of Airtel’s user base.
