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Vodafone Idea Halves Subscriber Losses, Boosts 5G Rollout
20 Aug
Summary
- Vodafone Idea reports lowest subscriber loss since 2018 merger
- Improved 4G network and 5G rollout in key metros drive subscriber gains
- Capex intensity may slow down without debt funding and dues clearance
In the June quarter of 2025, Vodafone Idea (Vi) reported the lowest subscriber loss of 0.5 million since its merger with Idea Cellular in 2018. Analysts attribute this decline in customer losses to Vi's bolstered 4G network and the rollout of fifth-generation (5G) services in key metros, as well as pricing interventions.
However, the analysts also note that Vi's capital expenditure (Capex) intensity may slow down from the second half of the current fiscal year (FY26) due to the absence of its much-awaited debt funding and significant statutory dues. The telco's gross subscriber additions stood at 24 million, compared to rival Jio's 36.5 million and Airtel's 30.3 million in the quarter.
Despite the improvement, Vi's ARPU (average revenue per user) growth of 0.6% quarter-on-quarter was driven by one additional day in the June quarter. The company's 5G subscriber additions benefited from its introductory offer of ₹299 per month, lower than Jio's ₹349 and Airtel's ₹398. Vi executives have indicated strong traction in 5G uptake on its network in the 22 cities where it has launched the service.
