This isn't like the free AOL discs, but as if AOL were free but never allowed people to access anything other than a free encyclopedia, medical information, and their own content and services.
A major reason Facebook is doing this is that they see an investment opportunity. In some countries the majority of people are using the internet, but can't distinguish the internet from Facebook. That is any techno-monopolist's wet dream, and it is exactly what they are going for across the entire developing world.
I know for a fact that some people working at Facebook think they are doing good and being charitable by supporting internet.org. It is extremely hard to convince anyone who stands to gain from internet.org that this could be a net negative for the people on the receiving end. I've been called arrogant and out of touch for arguing this. To me, it is disturbing that this is seen as a world-changing act of charity, but some people clearly feel that way. I'm relieved that regulators are standing up against Facebook, and I hope they stand strong, but I have doubts. We may be losing the free internet and weakly accepting the rule of a new emperor.
>This isn't like the free AOL discs, but as if AOL were free but never allowed people to access anything other than a free encyclopedia, medical information, and their own content and services.
AOL tried that (except for the free part) and couldn't pull it off. In the early days of AOL there was no way to get on the internet.
I doubt Indians will be satisfied with a tiny walled garden, even if it means they have to pay a little to get out.
A major reason Facebook is doing this is that they see an investment opportunity. In some countries the majority of people are using the internet, but can't distinguish the internet from Facebook. That is any techno-monopolist's wet dream, and it is exactly what they are going for across the entire developing world.
I know for a fact that some people working at Facebook think they are doing good and being charitable by supporting internet.org. It is extremely hard to convince anyone who stands to gain from internet.org that this could be a net negative for the people on the receiving end. I've been called arrogant and out of touch for arguing this. To me, it is disturbing that this is seen as a world-changing act of charity, but some people clearly feel that way. I'm relieved that regulators are standing up against Facebook, and I hope they stand strong, but I have doubts. We may be losing the free internet and weakly accepting the rule of a new emperor.