Highlights

• The Redmi A4 5G launched in India but does not support Airtel’s 5G network.
• It exclusively works with Jio’s 5G network.
• The Redmi A4 5G is compatible only with SA (Standalone) 5G networks, which are not yet widely available in India.
• The phone is available in two variants: 4GB/64GB at ₹8,499 and 4GB/128GB at ₹9,499.

The Redmi A4 5G has entered the Indian market as a budget-friendly 5G smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chipset. The phone will be available for purchase starting November 27 via Amazon, Mi.com and offline stores.

However, the launch comes with a significant drawback – it does not support Airtel’s 5G network in India. The smartphone works exclusively with Jio’s 5G network.

Here’s a closer look at the issue.

Why Redmi A4 5G Won’t Support Airtel’s 5G?

According to Redmi’s official product page, the Redmi A4 5G is compatible only with SA (Standalone) 5G networks and does not support NSA (Non-Standalone) networks. This limitation is the main reason it cannot connect to Airtel’s 5G, which currently relies on NSA technology.

SA 5G uses dedicated network bands and new radio technologies for a more advanced deployment, while NSA 5G leverages existing 4G LTE infrastructure, making it cheaper and faster to implement. While SA 5G is technically superior, both types of 5G networks can deliver comparable experiences, including speeds of up to 1Gbps.

Airtel has announced plans to roll out SA 5G in India, with initial tests underway in locations like Bhubaneswar, Rewari and Chennai.

However, nationwide availability is still a while away. This leaves Redmi A4 5G users dependent on Jio for 5G connectivity.

For Airtel users, the phone’s key feature—5G support—becomes irrelevant, making it a less attractive option unless they are willing to switch networks.

Redmi A4 5G – Key Features, Variants and Pricing

• Display: A88-inch HD+ LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate and 600 nits of peak brightness.
• Processor: 4nm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 5G Processor
• RAM and Storage – 8GB (4GB+4GB virtual) RAM with storage up to 128GB. It also comes with a dedicated 2+1 card slot with expandable storage up to 1TB.
• Camera: 50MP f/1.8 primary sensor with 4-in-1 Pixel binning.
• Battery: A robust 5,160mAh battery with 18W fast charging.
• Storage Options: Two variants—4GB/64GB priced at ₹8,499 and 4GB/128GB at ₹9,499.

FAQs

Q1. Which 5G networks does the Redmi A4 5G support?

Answer. The Redmi A4 5G supports only SA (Standalone) 5G networks and does not support NSA (Non-Standalone) networks like Airtel’s 5G network.

Q2. What is the battery capacity of the Redmi A4 5G?

Answer. The Redmi A4 5G has a robust 5,160mAh battery with 18W fast charging.

Q3. When will the Redmi A4 5G be available for purchase in India?

Answer. The Redmi A4 5G will be available for purchase starting November 27 via Amazon, Mi.com, and offline stores.

Q4. Why won’t the Redmi A4 5G support Airtel’s 5G network?

Answer. The Redmi A4 5G is compatible only with SA (Standalone) 5G networks, whereas Airtel’s 5G network currently relies on NSA (Non-Standalone) technology.

Q5. What are the pricing options for the Redmi A4 5G in India?

Answer. The Redmi A4 5G is available in two variants: 4GB/64GB priced at ₹8,499 and 4GB/128GB at ₹9,499.

Read More: Xiaomi Set to Launch Redmi A4 5G in India at Just ₹8499