Technoglitch
Core Member
After prohibiting mobile operators from providing differential data tariffs through select tie-ups with content providers, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) on Thursday came out with a consultation paper to explore what kind of free data the telcos can provide without violating its earlier regulation. Though the regulator said that the scope of providing free data would be only through an operator-agnostic platform, meaning where the telcos cannot play the role of gatekeepers, one of the models suggested by it can create problems of a level playing field, something which Trai wanted to address by prohibiting differential tariffs.
For instance, Trai has suggested three models for free data while inviting suggestions for more. The first model is the reward one wherein content providers give cash back or free minutes or free recharge to consumers who download apps or similar content from their services platforms. Currently, mCent, Gigato, Taskbucks, Ladoo, etc, provide this kind of scheme.
For instance, Trai has suggested three models for free data while inviting suggestions for more. The first model is the reward one wherein content providers give cash back or free minutes or free recharge to consumers who download apps or similar content from their services platforms. Currently, mCent, Gigato, Taskbucks, Ladoo, etc, provide this kind of scheme.
The second model suggested is very similar to the first but instead of a reward or cash back there’s no data charge for consumers. Thus in essence it is similar to Airtel’s zero rating or Facebook’s Free Basics, which are now prohibited.
The third model is a direct subsidy model wherein the content provider reimburses a certain sum directly into the bank accounts of consumers for surfing a site or downloading an app.
Trai now explores free data plans from operators; comes after earlier regulation on zero-rating plans | The Financial Express
For instance, Trai has suggested three models for free data while inviting suggestions for more. The first model is the reward one wherein content providers give cash back or free minutes or free recharge to consumers who download apps or similar content from their services platforms. Currently, mCent, Gigato, Taskbucks, Ladoo, etc, provide this kind of scheme.
For instance, Trai has suggested three models for free data while inviting suggestions for more. The first model is the reward one wherein content providers give cash back or free minutes or free recharge to consumers who download apps or similar content from their services platforms. Currently, mCent, Gigato, Taskbucks, Ladoo, etc, provide this kind of scheme.
The second model suggested is very similar to the first but instead of a reward or cash back there’s no data charge for consumers. Thus in essence it is similar to Airtel’s zero rating or Facebook’s Free Basics, which are now prohibited.
The third model is a direct subsidy model wherein the content provider reimburses a certain sum directly into the bank accounts of consumers for surfing a site or downloading an app.
Trai now explores free data plans from operators; comes after earlier regulation on zero-rating plans | The Financial Express
