Facebook Lite: Will Indians benefit?

Facebook recently launched its Facebook Lite android mobile app. It has all the features, but is smaller and lighter on data traffic. The app is designed keeping developing economies with lower bandwidth in mind. Is there a chance of lesser consumers wanting to upgrade to 3G now among rising data rates?

“A lighter version of such OTT services would help increase adoption from 2G customers. However, most 3G subscribers are not expected to move back to 2G if they are not too price sensitive”, Arpita Pal Agrawal, Leader, Telecom, PwC India says.

Facebook has simultaneously emerged as a social marketing platform. Is this a boost to Indian e-commerce in terms of advertising now that retailers can reach a larger consumer base?

Most experts believe while tweaked OTTs may only delay, but not discontinue the shift from 2G to 3G and subsequently 4G and on. They feel the ones on 2G either choose to use bare-bones services, or can’t afford them.

“They’re not big targets for marketers as well. Most aim for savvy affluent customers who can afford their product and services”, Arvind Singhal, Chairman at Management Consulting firm Technopak says.

All said and done, if you’re the naïve Indian, looking forward to jump on the Social media bandwagon, this is your moment.

(image credits: indiatimes)