The third largest Mobile Operator in Bangladesh with over 26 millon customers, Robi, in partnership with Internet.org is offering free internet access to more than 25 websites covering government information, job postings, e-commerce, educational information, women’s health, emergency contacts, weather updates and news. A first in the country, the program introduced by Robi aims to deliver on the Digital Bangladesh initiative and help to connect 72% of the population who have yet to experience Internet. The joint initiative between Robi and Facebook is expected to bridge the digital divide in Bangladesh & steer the country towards a knowledge-based society.
The free internet access is available to Robi's customers via the Internet.org app. The app also allows users to access sites and content other than that is free, with users accessing those sites charged standard data charges which will be informed to them via a push notification. For these other content, users can either purchase Robi's data pack or sign on a pay-per-use plan.
Mahtab Uddin Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer, Robi
Commenting on the launch of Internet.org in the country. We are proud to be partnering with Internet.org. We believe it demonstrates our commitment to facilitate affordable internet for the masses. It will certainly help in promoting the use of internet in our society which is a pre-requisite in realizing the vision of Digital Bangladesh.
Markku Makelainen, Director, Global Operator Partnerships, Facebook
Today we’re excited to make the internet available to millions of people in Bangladesh through the launch of Internet.org with Robi. This is another step forward in helping to provide everyone with access to basic internet services and tools that can help improve their lives.