Airtel's Priority Postpaid plan and the new debate on net neutrality

Why in the News ?

Amid the expansion of 5G services in India, Bharti Airtel has launched its new 'Priority Postpaid' service. The company claims that this service will provide postpaid customers with more stable and better internet connectivity during network congestion. This is considered the first commercial deployment of 5G network slicing technology for consumers in India. However, this new service has also sparked a new debate about net neutrality.

What is 5G network slicing ?

• 5G network slicing is a technology in which a single physical network is divided into multiple virtual parts, or "slices." Each slice can be designed to suit specific needs. For example, one slice could be designed for industrial automation, another for healthcare services, and a third for premium internet users.
• Airtel's new plan will offer postpaid customers the benefit of a dedicated network slice, providing better network experience even in crowded areas like stadiums, airports, metro stations or markets.

Difference between Premium Broadband Plans and Network Slicing

• Regular premium broadband plans only offer maximum internet speeds, but all users may experience slower speeds when network pressure increases.
• In contrast, network slicing allows some users to receive prioritized access to network resources. This means they can enjoy relatively better and stable connectivity even during times of congestion.

Why did Airtel launch this plan ?

• Postpaid users represent a relatively small proportion of Airtel's total customers, but these customers generate more revenue for the company. Postpaid customers tend to stay with the same service provider for a longer period of time and have a higher average revenue per user (ARPU).
• The company's objective is to attract more customers to postpaid services and retain existing customers by providing a better experience.

What is Net Neutrality ?

• Net neutrality is the principle that all websites, apps, and online services available on the internet should be treated equally. Internet service providers cannot give any particular website, app, or service undue priority, nor can they slow down any other service.
• India adopted strong net neutrality rules in 2015 following the Facebook 'Free Basics' controversy. These rules aim to keep the internet open, fair, and equal for all.

Does Airtel's plan violate net neutrality ?

Airtel's Position

• Airtel states that its Priority Postpaid service is completely content-neutral. This means that all apps and websites within the network slice will receive equal priority. The company is not promoting any particular platform, website, or content, but simply providing a better network experience to paying customers.

Critics' Concerns

• Critics believe that this system could create a situation similar to "fast lanes" and "slow lanes" on the internet. While some users receive better network resources in exchange for additional payments, others may receive relatively lower quality service.
• Experts argue that this could lead to a two-tier internet system in the future, where higher-paying customers receive a better experience and lower-quality service for ordinary consumers.

Regulatory Status

• The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology has initiated an investigation into the matter. The committee is studying whether this service complies with the principle of non-discrimination inherent in India's telecommunications infrastructure. No final regulatory decision has been taken on this matter at this time.

Conclusion

Airtel's Priority Postpaid plan has sparked significant debate in India about the balance between 5G network management and net neutrality. The key question is whether providing better network quality to customers who pay extra would be considered discrimination against ordinary customers. The answer to this question could impact the future of 5G services, digital equality, and internet fairness in India.