Reliance Jio is back with another wild idea, and this time, it’s about turning your plain old TV into a full-fledged computer. The new JioPC is basically a virtual desktop you can run straight from your Jio set-top box. No CPU tower, no chunky monitor, no complicated wires. Just your TV, a keyboard, a mouse, and a stable internet connection, and boom — you’ve got a working computer on your hands.
This cloud-powered setup is now live in India, and it follows a simple pay-as-you-go model. No lock-ins, no servicing hassles, and no sneaky hidden costs. Prices start at ₹599 per month, plus GST.
What can JioPC actually do?
JioPC isn’t built to replace a gaming rig, but for everything else, it should hold up surprisingly well.
It runs on a virtual machine with a CPU with 4-cores, 8GB of RAM, and 100GB of cloud storage. The operating system is Ubuntu Linux, which means it’s perfect for coding, browsing, day-to-day productivity, and even some light online gaming. And yes, because this is an AI ready PC, you will be able to carry out some AI tasks, although, don't expect to train you own AI models, at least not yet.
LibreOffice comes pre-installed for all your documents and spreadsheets, but if you still need Microsoft Office, you can access it right from the browser.
The setup doesn’t support webcams or printers for now, but it handles all the basics with ease. If you’re a student, freelancer, or just someone who wants a no-fuss desktop on the cheap, this is a clever little alternative.
Setting up JioPC is actually kind of fun
Getting started feels less like tech support and more like unlocking a cheat code. First, you power on your Jio set-top box and head to the Apps section. There, you’ll find the JioPC app — hit ‘Get Started’ and plug in your keyboard and mouse.
Then, log in using your registered mobile number or sign up with a new one, and you’re in. Do note that you will need a separate mouse and keyboard, and Jio isn’t providing a set, but there are several budget options readily available.
Your TV now acts like a desktop screen, ready for work, school, or whatever else you need to get done.
Of course, since the whole thing runs on the cloud, you’ll need a steady internet connection at all times. But once it’s set up, it genuinely feels like a full desktop experience — just without the desk.
Plans and offers that won’t break the bank
Now, if you assumed that all of this computing power will cost you an arm and a leg, you would be wrong. Jio actually has some pretty economical plans, especially if you go for their half-yearly or yearly plans.
- ₹599 + GST: 1 month validity, unlimited usage
- ₹999 + GST: 2 months validity, unlimited usage
- ₹1,499 + GST: 4 months (3+1 bonus), unlimited usage
- ₹2,499 + GST: 8 months (6+2 bonus), unlimited usage
- ₹4,599 + GST: 15 months (12+3 bonus), unlimited usage
There’s also a solid one-month free trial to get you started, and that includes access to Jio’s full Workspace suite, Microsoft Office via browser, and a massive 512GB of cloud storage during the trial period.
Jio is even throwing in free access to Adobe Express for some creative flair. You also get a bunch of essential AI tools and productivity apps packed in, making JioPC more than just a desktop in the cloud — it’s your new budget-friendly workstation.
