No longer free calls available on WhatsApp, Viber, Skype

With the government committee endorsing the concept of net neutrality, its recommendations have raised some major concerns for consumers and start-ups. Those hooked to applications like WhatsApp, Skype and Viber may no longer be able to make free domestic calls (barring negligible data charges) through these voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services.

However, instant messaging and international calls through these services will remain free, if these recommendations are implemented.

whatsapp vibre skype No longer free calls available on WhatsApp, Viber, SkypeAnother suggestion by the committee that zero-rating platforms be treated on a case-by-case basis and clearance sought from telecom regulator TRAI opens up the worrying possibility of discrimination in favour of established, cash-rich internet application providers. This could potentially stifle innovation and kill the burgeoning start-up culture in the country. On the positive side, it did not recommend any regulatory controls for fast-growing over-the-top (OTT) services that deliver varied ...Read more