Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) has collaborated with the mobile service provider, Telenor to introduce Internet.org service In Pakistan.
The controversial service gives users access to a variety of websites and services that deal with a wide range of topics such as finance, health, jobs, education, and global news. The service allows users to get access to these topics and more without the need to pay for them. Internet.org is ideal in this case because it can easily be accessed in 2G and 3G over Android applications and browsers.
Some of the web services that users will be able to access include BabyCenter &MAMA, Malaria No More, ESPN Cricinfo, Telenor News,Wikipedia, Messenger, Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), OLX, ilmkidunya, Bing.com and UNICEF Facts for Life. Internet.org was introduced last year in Zambia and has been expanding since then. So far, it is accessible in more than ten countries including Kenya, Malawi, India, Indonesia, Tanzania and Colombia.
Pakistan has a relatively fair number of internet users averaging 27 million. Most of these users access the internet using their mobile devices. The service has been designed in a way that will allow vital data to be easily accessible. The goal is to promote some positive influence and push for more empowerment, particularly in third world countries.
At first glance, it might appear as an affordable means for individuals who can’t afford broadband connections or pricey internet bundles. However, it has a higher purpose and a bigger picture than just easy access.
Facebook’s idea is to centralize the target information to make it easier to access. Additionally the social network giant limits the use of the service only to the selected subjects or topics. The service has been controversial because most internet organizations and critics feel that it breaches the internet neutrality regulations.
A few companies relinquished themselves out of the service shortly after it was introduced in India. The dropping out was a move in protest for the neutrality issue. So far, no official result has been released with regards to the issue.
