Airtel sucks, switching to Jio
I live outside India. I recharged my Airtel pre-paid SIM about a month ago. For years this has been sufficient for my needs as far as receiving OTPs are concerned. This morning, I noticed that I wasn't receiving OTPs as I tried to log into my bank account. Then I noticed this text message from Airtel:
SMS (incoming + outgoing), calling, and data services have been stopped on your number while abroad, as you do not have an International Roaminig pack.
To restore the services, please recharge with a new Airtel International Roaming pack now.
Choose from:
1) 5-Day Pack: 2GB data, 150 mins & more at Rs.898
2) 10-Day Pack - 3GB data, 200 mins & more at Rs 1198
3) 30-Day Pack - 10 GB data, 300 mins & more at Rs 2998
Etc.
I did some digging and found that this process was initiated a year ago. I don't know why it's affecting me only now, but this is the first I've heard of it. Logged into the app and I see boldly written on top -- "Don't miss important OTPS in abroad - 1 year NRI pack with unlimited incoming SMS - Buy Rs 4,999 Pack".
This is a total bait and switch. No prior notification of the policy change, I've already paid X, now I should pay 2X more to get back functionality that has worked for the last 15 years? Whoever came up with this idea - let me congratulate you for providing zero value, being a complete pain in my ass, and making me determined to stop using your services at the earliest opportunity. I will never pay you a cent ever again.
Also - does anyone at Airtel actually speak English? "in abroad" -- really? Dumbasses...
Edit: It gets even better when you read their [press release](https://www.airtel.in/press-release/04-2025/airtel-announces-new-plans-to-revolutionize-international-roaming-ir-experience) from last year.
New Delhi, April 25, 2025: Bharti Airtel has announced new plans to its IR portfolio that will make it simpler, more affordable and completely hassle-free for customers. The company has unveiled India’s first unlimited* IR plans that offers unlimited data across 189 countries.
Additionally, for the long-staying NRI community, Airtel also launched a unique recharge plan for Rs. 4000 with one-year validity. The plan offers 5GB data and 100 voice minutes for use when abroad, while in India customers can use the same plan and get 1.5GB daily data and unlimited call benefits. The plan give customers a hassle-free connectivity experience anywhere across the 189 countries and use the same number while in India without having to do a separate recharge.
In what way is this simpler, more affordable, and more hassle-free for customers?