The broadband operator Nio, which has taken over the position of successor to Oi, announced the return to mobile telephony services. On Thursday, October 1st, the company launched new packages that integrate fiber optic technology with 5G internet, with initial prices starting from R$ 140 per month, as reported by Tecnoblog in its dedicated section for Rio de Janeiro.
This new service will function as an accredited Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), using Surf Telecom as the originating provider. It is important to note that Surf Telecom primarily uses TIM's infrastructure.
Nio informed that mobile coverage will reach the entire national territory, promising access to 'the largest 5G coverage in Brazil,' available in over 1,100 municipalities. The offered plans include unlimited calls and messages on WhatsApp, in addition to unrestricted national SMS and voice.
The benefit of 5G is integrated into the fiber plans without requiring additional subscription, starting from the 700 Mb/s offer. Nio's executive director for customer acquisition, Arthur Donadio, stated in a note to Tecnoblog that 'the customer chooses the fiber and 5G is already part of the plan. He does not need to put together a combo or make a second purchase decision.'
Existing Nio customers have the option to migrate to one of the new plans, but this transition does not happen automatically. Currently, Nio has approximately 3.3 million customers distributed in over 300 cities, and the company's strategy aims to leverage its fiber base to expand its services. CEO Marcio Fabbris stated that '5G adds to fiber as a new growth lever.'
A notable aspect of the current strategy is the commitment to keep prices stable until 2030, providing predictability to the consumer in a sector known for annual readjustments. It is worth recalling that the former Oi left the mobile market in 2022 after finalizing the sale of its operation to TIM, Vivo, and Claro. Four years later, Anatel approved the MVNO agreements between Nio and Surf in July.