Reliance Jio appears to be gearing up for the launch of a new feature phone in India, as a recent Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification suggests. While the certification doesn’t disclose specific details, speculation points toward a dual-SIM version of the JioPhone Prima 2, a popular model in Jio’s feature phone lineup. Here’s what we know so far about this potential new addition.
What the BIS Certification Reveals
The BIS listing, spotted by 91mobiles, features the model number JFP1AE-DS. The “DS” suffix strongly hints at dual SIM capabilities, a significant upgrade for the JioPhone lineup. Here’s why this might be the JioPhone Prima 2 Dual SIM:
- The standard JioPhone Prima 2 already carries the model number JFP1AE.
- Adding “DS” likely denotes dual SIM functionality, enabling users to operate another network SIM alongside Jio.
While the certification image doesn’t confirm the marketing name, the move aligns with Jio’s strategy of offering affordable yet feature-rich phones to India’s mass market.
What to Expect: JioPhone Prima 2 Specifications
If the JFP1AE-DS is indeed the JioPhone Prima 2 Dual SIM, it will likely retain much of the hardware and features of the current Prima 2 model. Here’s a refresher on what the Prima 2 offers:
Display and Design
- 2.4-inch display with slightly curved edges for better ergonomics.
Performance
- Powered by a Qualcomm quad-core processor paired with 512MB RAM for smooth performance.
- Expandable storage via a microSD card slot (up to 128GB).
Software and Features
- Runs on kaiOS 2.5.3, supporting 23 languages.
- Pre-installed with apps like Google Assistant, YouTube, Facebook, JioChat, and Jio’s entertainment suite (JioSaavn, JioCinema, JioTV).
- Enabled with Jio Pay UPI for QR code scanning and quick digital payments.
Connectivity and Extras
- FM Radio, LED Torch, 3.5mm audio jack, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB 2.0.
Pricing and Availability
The current JioPhone Prima 2 launched at ₹2,799 in a Luxe Blue color option. The dual-SIM variant could see a slight price bump but is expected to remain within the affordable range.
Why Dual SIM Matters
Introducing a dual SIM variant addresses a key consumer demand in India’s price-sensitive market, where users often juggle multiple networks for better coverage or cost savings. The addition of dual SIM slots enhances the phone’s versatility and appeal, making it even more competitive.
JioPhone Series: A Growing Lineup
Jio’s feature phones, launched in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, aim to bridge the gap between basic mobile functionality and modern connectivity needs. By adding features like UPI support, video calling, and access to essential apps, the JioPhone series caters to users transitioning from basic phones to smart devices without the higher price tag.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.