As benevolent and philanthropic as Mark Zuckerberg pitches Internet.org to be, the service inherently clashes with the principles of a free and open Internet, critics believe. After several Indian publications ended their participation in the initiative, Internet.org's foundation may have begun to erode.
Internet.org runs a free app that offers residents in emerging regions the ability to connect to a select listing of websites at no cost to the individuals. Because the app isn't open to all websites, however, it offers selected organizations an advantage over those left out.
It goes from the market gravitating to the best sites to consumers, lured in by free Internet access, patronizing websites that partner with Internet.org.
Internet.org is able to offer free Internet to consumers because participating organizations take care of the cost of the bandwidth, paying the fees on behalf of the consumer. That sort of arrangement is known as zero rating.
Internet.org launched in India a few weeks ago. The Times of India, initially supportive of the program, has stepped away from it and called on other publishers to do the same. The Times supports net neutrality because it fosters an atmosphere of fair play, in which the playing field is even for companies large and small, stated one of the organization's officials.
"We will lead the drive towards a neutral internet, but we need our fellow publishers and content providers to do so as well, so that the playing field continues to be level," the official stated.
Zuckerberg penned a retort in the form of an editorial, which was published in the Hindustan Times. Everyone in the world deserves access to the Internet, but in many countries there is little awareness about the power of it due to socio-economic obstacles, Zuckerberg stated.
"Internet.org lowers the cost of accessing the Internet and raises awareness of the Internet's value," stated Zuckerberg. "It helps include everyone in the world's opportunities."
Zuckerberg stressed that Internet.org's efforts do not conflict with net neutrality, asserting that the two principles "can and must coexist."
"To give more people access to the Internet, it is useful to offer some services for free," stated Zuckerberg. "If you can't afford to pay for connectivity, it is always better to have some access and voice than none at all."
The Facebook CEO also pointed out that Internet.org does not throttle speeds or facilitate fast lanes. The program is not stopping anyone from joining the platform and is encouraging all mobile operators to participate, stated Zuckerberg.
