India’s Telecom Giants Offer Free AI Tools — Why Are Pakistani Users Left Behind?

While Indian users enjoy groundbreaking access to free AI tools through their telecom providers, Pakistani consumers are still waiting. Telecom giants like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are setting a new standard by integrating advanced AI services into everyday mobile plans — a move that makes Pakistan’s digital landscape look far behind by comparison. Currently, Onic is Pakistan’s only SIM provider offering free premium access to ChatGPT. In contrast, mainstream networks like Jazz, Ufone, Zong, and Telenor offer nothing comparable — no AI trials, no freemium tools, no partnerships. This gap is not just surprising — it’s concerning. Airtel’s Game-Changing AI Integration Airtel has partnered with Perplexity, giving 360 million users a free 1-year subscription to Perplexity Pro — a premium AI package worth INR 17,000 (approx. $200). Users get: GPT‑4.1 access Claude, Gemini integration Up to 300 AI searches per day Document uploads Image generation AI Labs tools All of this is available across prepaid, postpaid, broadband, and DTH customers — making it one of the most inclusive AI rollouts in the world. At the same time, Reliance Jio is building its Bharat GPT in collaboration with IIT Bombay, while reportedly working to bring OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its ecosystem. Pakistan Lacks a National AI Push via Telecom Despite frequent talk of digital growth, Pakistan’s IT Ministry and telecom authorities have no visible policy to bring AI tools to everyday users. There are no government-led collaborations with telecom operators, no AI subsidies, and no public-private frameworks to expand access. Compare this to India’s focused efforts to localize AI innovation — and it’s clear Pakistan lacks both urgency and coordination. Why Aren’t Pakistani Carriers Keeping Up? Global Partnerships: Indian telcos partner with world-leading AI companies; Pakistani providers don’t. Strategic Vision: India backs initiatives like Bharat GPT. Pakistan lacks an equivalent national vision. Consumer Value: Pakistani users want more than just data. AI tools for productivity, writing, and creativity could add immense value — but telcos aren’t exploring this potential.