Aircel has started offering free basic internet to its subscribers in India, with the intention of increasing mobile internet consumption among the masses. The telecom operator has begun the service in Tamil Nadu and plans to make it available across the country by the end of the year.
Under the basic internet scheme, Aircel users are supposed to get downloads speeds of up to 64kbps. New customers will be allowed to utilize the program for free during the first 3 months, after which they have to recharge a minimum amount of Rs 150 in order to continue having access to free data.
Aircel Chief Marketing Officer Anupam Vasudev told PTI that internet services currently constitute 14% of the provider’s total revenue. It wants to bring the figure to 30% within 3 years. He believes the cut in the cost of 3G handsets to below Rs 3000 is bringing about a shift from TV to phones.
Aircel is also preparing to strengthen its 3G network in India by establishing roughly 20000 cell tower sites by the end of 2016. In a statement, it asserted that it’s seen a 75% growth in 3G subscribers among its user base. The brand also announced it was introducing a new paper recharge initiative for online shoppers and has tied up with Flipkart, Amazon and Snapdeal to facilitate the scheme.
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People can choose between two vouchers priced at Rs 402 and Rs 602. They will come bundled with 3G and 2G data packs at discounted rates. Buyers will be able to get them delivered to their address and pay for them through cash-on-delivery. The brand is further rolling out an Aircel Cover Plus insurance scheme in association with Ingram.