Internet.org is now Free Basics by Facebook

MUMBAI, INDIA: Facebook has re-branded its free service Internet.org. It will now be called Free Basics by Facebook.

The announcement was made at the Facebook Headquarters in Melno Park, California by Chris Daniels, VP, Internet.org.

The app as well as Web platform offers access to more than 250 services which are now available in 19 countries. Free Basic users will also get access to 60 new free services. The announcement comes before PM Modi’s town hall meet with Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg at the new campus.

In his blog, Zuckerberg wrote, “We’ve improved the security and privacy of Internet.org. We already encrypt information everywhere possible, and starting today Internet.org also supports secure HTTPS web services as well.”

It must be noted that Internet.org faced criticism in India, during the massive outburst on the GoI’s policy on net neutrality.