The Redmi A4 5G has recently been launched in India, positioning itself as one of the most budget-friendly 5G smartphones available. It aims to provide next-generation connectivity to a larger number of users. The device is driven by the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chipset, offering decent performance without breaking the bank. Nevertheless, a major drawback has been identified: the Redmi A4 5G is not compatible with Airtel’s 5G network in India. Instead, it can only connect to Jio’s 5G network. Below is an in-depth exploration of this concern and what it means for potential customers.
Why Airtel 5G is not supported by Redmi A4 5G?
According to the product page of Redmi, the Redmi A4 5G is designed to only work with SA (Standalone) 5G networks and does not support NSA (Non-Standalone) networks. This limitation is why it is unable to connect to Airtel’s 5G network, which currently operates on NSA architecture.
To elaborate, Standalone (SA) 5G utilizes unique 5G network bands and new radio technologies for a more advanced setup. In contrast, Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G makes use of existing 4G LTE infrastructure and shares some frequency bands with 4G. This method is more budget-friendly and simpler to implement.
While technically SA 5G is seen as superior, both types can offer similar user experiences, including speeds reaching up to 1Gbps. Airtel has declared intentions to launch SA 5G in India, with tests happening in specific regions like Bhubaneswar, Rewari, and Chennai. However, a full rollout across the country is still a ways off, which means that buyers of the Redmi A4 5G will only have Jio as their option for 5G connectivity. Therefore, those who are not interested in switching to Jio should consider looking past the Redmi A4 5G, as its main attraction, 5G access, is not available with Airtel at this moment.
What features does the Redmi A4 5G provide?
- Display: It boasts a 6.88-inch HD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 600 nits.
- Battery: The device is equipped with an impressive 5,160mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging.
- Storage Options: There are two versions available—4GB/64GB for ₹8,499 and 4GB/128GB for ₹9,499.
The device will be available for purchase starting November 27 through Amazon, Mi.com, and physical retail stores, making it a compelling option for those looking for an affordable way to experience 5G on Jio’s network.
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