Free basics news

Free Basics is a controversial internet platform launched by Facebook in 2015, which provides free access to a limited set of websites and services, including news, to users in developing countries. Here are some recent news articles and updates about Free Basics:

Recent News:

1. India bans Free Basics: In February 2016, the Indian government banned Free Basics, citing concerns over net neutrality and the potential for it to create a "walled garden" of content. (Source: The Hindu)
2. Facebook appeals Indian ban: In March 2016, Facebook appealed the Indian government's decision to ban Free Basics, arguing that it was a "neutral" platform that did not favor any particular website or service. (Source: The Economic Times)
3. Free Basics launches in Africa: In October 2016, Facebook launched Free Basics in several African countries, including Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania. (Source: TechCrunch)
4. Free Basics faces backlash in Africa: In November 2016, Free Basics faced criticism in Africa, with some users and advocacy groups arguing that the platform was not providing equal access to the internet and was instead promoting Facebook's own services. (Source: Quartz Africa)
5. Facebook updates Free Basics: In January 2017, Facebook updated Free Basics to include more websites and services, including news sites like BBC News and Al Jazeera. (Source: The Verge)

Controversies and Criticisms:

1. Net neutrality concerns: Free Basics has been criticized for potentially violating net neutrality principles, as it prioritizes certain websites and services over others.
2. Data caps and limitations: Free Basics has been criticized for imposing data caps and limitations on users, which can make it difficult for them to access certain websites and services.
3. Lack of transparency: Free Basics has been criticized for lacking transparency around its data collection and usage practices.
4. Promoting Facebook's own services: Free Basics has been criticized for promoting Facebook's own services, such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp, over other messaging apps and services.

Support and Praise:

1. Access to the internet: Free Basics has been praised for providing access to the internet for millions of people in developing countries who may not have had access otherwise.
2. Economic benefits: Free Basics has been praised for its potential to create economic benefits, such as increasing access to information and opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
3. Improved digital literacy: Free Basics has been praised for its potential to improve digital literacy and online skills among users in developing countries.

Overall, Free Basics has been a controversial platform that has sparked debate and criticism around issues of net neutrality, data caps, and transparency. While it has been praised for providing access to the internet and promoting economic benefits, it has also faced criticism for promoting Facebook's own services and potentially violating net neutrality principles.