Airtel Zero Explained: Features, Plans, and Setup

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Airtel Zero is a data-free plan that allows users to access select websites and apps without using their mobile data.

Airtel Zero is a zero-rating plan, which means that users don't have to pay for data when accessing these select websites and apps.

To access Airtel Zero, users need to download the Airtel Zero app and select the websites and apps they want to access for free.

Airtel Zero has partnered with various websites and apps, including Facebook, Google, and Flipkart, to offer free access to their services.

Intriguing read: Airtel Broadband Plan

Impact on Net Neutrality

Airtel Zero's impact on Net Neutrality is a major concern.

The service discriminates data based on its source, allowing Flipkart and other companies to transmit data for free, while consumers pay for it.

This is done through deep packet inspection by telcos, which monitors data going through lines and treats it differently because it comes from a specific source.

The simple law to solve Net Neutrality is to not discriminate data and treat all bytes equally.

Discover more: Data Cap

Does It Have Good Intentions?

Credit: youtube.com, Is Net Neutrality Good Policy?

Airtel's intentions are clear from their past actions, and it's not looking good. They have a history of trying to make money by charging extra for VOIP packs.

Their actions show they're more interested in profiting from users than contributing to the country's innovation. Airtel's prepaid phone users are bombarded with nearly 100 'special recharge' packs on PayTM.com - a clear indication of their focus on making money.

Airtel Zero's introduction is a re-branding effort to appear as the good guys, but it's not a genuine attempt to benefit India. If Airtel truly believed in a neutral internet, they wouldn't have tried to charge more for VOIP packs in the first place.

Airtel's vague statements about Airtel Zero are blatant lies, and their actions speak louder than words.

Does Internet.org Violate Net Neutrality?

Internet.org, another service that raises concerns about Net Neutrality. It works by allowing some companies to transmit data for free to consumers, but the companies pay for it. The telcos use deep packet inspection to monitor data and treat it differently because it comes from a specific source.

Credit: youtube.com, Local expert: Net neutrality and its impact on internet users

The problem with Internet.org is that it discriminates data based on where it comes from, which is the opposite of Net Neutrality. It's like having a special lane for certain cars, while others have to wait in a different lane.

The solution to Net Neutrality is simple: don't discriminate data. Treat all bytes of data equally. But the telcos want to confuse consumers with different types of voice and SMS packs, making them pay more.

The whole point of Net Neutrality is to prevent telcos from tampering with it, and they don't have a clean record of serving the nation's best interests.

Features and Plans

Airtel Zero is a data-free browsing service offered by Airtel, allowing users to access certain websites without incurring data charges. This service is a game-changer for users who want to stay connected without breaking the bank.

The service is available on select websites, including Facebook, Twitter, and Google. These popular websites are a great starting point for users who want to take advantage of Airtel Zero.

Airtel Zero is free for users, with no hidden charges or fees. This is a huge benefit for users who are already paying for their data plans.

Intriguing read: Zero-knowledge Service

Launch and Updates

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Airtel Zero was launched on 6 April 2015 in India by Bharti Airtel, a multinational telecommunications service company.

The platform aimed to offer users free access to certain mobile applications and services from companies who had signed up with Airtel.

Airtel Zero was designed to be an open and non-discriminatory marketing platform for all developers in India, irrespective of the size of their business.

This platform was consistent with India's Digital Inclusion agenda and contributed to the government's 'Make in India' vision by providing a platform to millions of small businesses to reach out to the end consumer.

Bharti Airtel's Director – Consumer Business, Srini Gopalan, expressed excitement about the launch, highlighting its potential to deliver the same results as traditional digital marketing channels at 1/3rd the cost.

Airtel Zero was a highly efficient marketing mechanism for small developers or startup shops that faced budget constraints towards driving promotions and app downloads.

Expand your knowledge: Bharti Airtel 5g Network

Towering Transmission Lines and Telecom Masts
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The results of Airtel Zero's pilot program indicated that it could deliver the same results as traditional digital marketing channels at 1/3rd the cost.

Airtel Zero had generated a lot of interest from businesses across the board, including several small startup firms, and expected a large number of applications to sign on.

Setup and Configuration

To start the Airtel ZeroTouch setup, ensure all details filled in are correct, which will redirect you to the settings page of your Airtel router.

The Airtel ZeroTouch router allows for a quick setup of the DSL line, thanks to its ZeroTouch control panel.

You can change various parameters on the settings page, including the Wi-Fi password, Wi-Fi name, login password, username, and more.

To enjoy your internet connections, you need to set up the DSL line, which can be done quickly using the ZeroTouch control panel.

Airtel broadband internet uses both ADSL and VDSL types of routers for internet connections, with VDSL offering greater speed compared to ADSL connections.

The type of router used depends on the internet speed you subscribe to, with VDSL being faster than ADSL.

Expand your knowledge: Airtel India Apn Settings

Tiffany Kozey

Junior Writer

Tiffany Kozey is a versatile writer with a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and everyday life. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for simplifying complex concepts, she has established herself as a go-to expert on topics like Microsoft Cloud Syncing. Her articles have been widely read and appreciated for their clarity, insight, and practical advice.

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