Accessing apps may soon be free but not fair. Here’s why.

When Indian telecom scene is facing the big question of net neutrality, telecom operator Airtel seems to be pulling the right plug by introducing 'Airtel Zero', an open marketing platform that will allow customers to access mobile applications at zero data charges. A news report in The Economic Times confirms, the company has claimed that the latest platform will be a big win for customers as it will allow them to access mobile applications at no data charges, and also encourage them to try out new applications. 

The platform, as claimed by the telco, can work as a highly efficient marketing mechanism for small developers or startup shops that face budget constraints towards driving promotions and app downloads. This freebie will encourage dormant customers and pull in new users to experience the apps tied up to Airtel.

However, as per reports by The Times of India, Airtel's new move violates the principles of net neutrality as the company will offer an advantage to certain players in terms of cost of access and will even promote them. While the Telco will gain revenues, the app developers would need to pay extra to make sure more subscribers are encouraged to access their products.

A few days back, TRAI had floated a consultation paper on net neutrality, which implies that telcos cannot block certain apps or websites and promote a few.