Intel launches industry first initiative

Bangalore, June 13 (UNI) Targetting the fastest growing personal computer segment in tier-III and tier-IV cities, Reliance Communications has tied up with Intel to offer instant and uninterrupted internet connectivity for Intel-powered PCs.

The offer, to be available in 11 towns and cities of Karnataka, would be gradually rolled out in other cities and towns across the country, company Head (Post Paid Business) Inder Bajaj told newspersons here today.

Intel India Managing Director (Sales and Marketing) John McClure, who also addressed the media, said the tier-III and tier-IV cities in India were among the fastest growing markets for PCs and the trend would continue for the next couple of years.

Intel, which launched its World Ahead Programme in India, sought to accelerate access to uncompromised technology and internet connectivity across the country, using technologically superior Reliance connectivity at affordable rates through wide channel partner network. Besides small and medium businesses, major buyers of PCs in these segments were consumers and schools.

The 11 cities and towns would offer the new initiative, under which genuine Intel dealers would provide PC buyers with Reliance Fixed Wireless Phones that were internet enabled. The cities and towns were Belgaum, Bellary, Bhatkal, Chitradurga, Davangere, Dharwad, Gulbarga, Hospet, Mandya, Shimoga and Karwar. The next roll out would be in Andhra Pradesh.

Mr Bajaj said the agreement with Intel was yet another step forward in Reliance Communications' commitment to bring about a digital revolution in India by changing the way Indians communicate, get entertained and do business. The connectivity offered a maximum possible download speed of 144 kbps.

Nationwide, Reliance Communication was available in 4,500 towns and cities, covering 2,50,000 villages and had a customer base of 20 million. In Karnataka, Reliance was present in 309 cities and towns and 3,000 villages.

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