If you are an independent artist or a record label in India, caller tunes (CRBT) on Jio, Airtel, Vi and BSNL can be a useful extra revenue stream, and many global distributors do not offer them. Before you sign up with anyone, it helps to know what to ask.
This page is a checklist, not a ranking. We do not rank other distributors here: terms and prices change, so read each provider's own current terms before you decide.
Why CRBT matters in India
A caller tune is the song a caller hears while waiting for the other person to pick up. Each telecom operator runs its own caller-tune system (Jio through the JioSaavn app, Airtel through Hellotunes, plus Vi and BSNL), so a distributor has to deliver and get approval operator by operator. That is why CRBT terms differ more between distributors than ordinary streaming terms.
Eight questions to ask any distributor
| Question | Why it matters | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Which networks are covered? | Each operator is a separate delivery. | Jio, Airtel, Vi and BSNL, confirmed in writing. |
| Is CRBT included or an add-on? | Some plans charge extra. | A clear statement of what each plan includes. |
| Royalty share: of what? | "Net" and "gross" can differ a lot. | A written definition of the amount your percentage applies to. |
| Payout threshold? | Money below it waits. | The minimum balance and whether it carries forward. |
| Lock-in or takedown fee? | Leaving can cost money. | No lock-in and free takedowns. |
| Exclusive licence? | Exclusive terms limit where else you can release. | A non-exclusive licence. |
| How long does delivery take? | Operators set their own timing. | A realistic range, not a guarantee. |
| Who handles YouTube Content ID? | It protects the same catalogue on YouTube. | Included, with clear claim rules. |
How Video Generation answers these
- Networks: Jio, Airtel (Hellotunes), Vi and BSNL.
- CRBT: included on every plan.
- Royalty share: Free plan 90% of net royalties; Pro Artist (₹1,999/year + GST) 100% of net royalties. Net means what we actually receive after our distribution partners' and stores' fees.
- Payouts: paid once your balance reaches ₹5,000. The balance never expires and is paid in full when you leave.
- Exit: no lock-in and no takedown fee; 30 days' notice, and a single release can be taken down free at any time.
- Licence: non-exclusive. You keep 100% ownership of your music on every plan.
- Delivery: usually 6-14 business days for CRBT; each operator decides.
- YouTube Content ID: available on every plan.
The details are in our Terms & Conditions, on the pricing page and on the CRBT page.
See CRBT Caller Tune Distribution