Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio has expanded its cloud PC service to non-subscribers, promising to transform aging computers into AI-ready machines without the need for hardware upgrades. The service offers up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, accessible via a virtual PC streamed from Jio’s cloud. This move aims to extend the lifespan of existing computers, a strategy that could be crucial as replacement cycles in India are lengthening.

According to estimates, India had over 65 million PCs in use in 2025. Jio’s cloud PC could create a new market segment where users pay for computing capacity rather than hardware upgrades, aligning with a global trend towards more sustainable computing practices. However, the service might face competition from refurbished PCs, which offer a more traditional hardware solution at a lower cost.

The challenge for Jio is convincing users that a recurring subscription is worth the trade-off between the flexibility of a conventional computer and the convenience of cloud computing. This could be particularly challenging in smaller cities, where reliable internet access is not always guaranteed. The service also faces the test of whether cloud computing can truly be seen as a daily utility, rather than just a workaround.

Jio’s approach does not include dedicated AI accelerators, which could be seen as a limitation compared to the latest generation of AI PCs. Nonetheless, the company’s strategy could pave the way for a more flexible and sustainable computing ecosystem in India.