Facebook launches Internet.org to all developers

Facebook has announced the launch of Internet.org in a bid to connect underserved countries around the globe.

According to the TechCrunch, Facebook said in a blog-post that their goal with Internet.org is to work with as many developers and entrepreneurs as possible to extend the benefits of connectivity to diverse and local communities. So, they are going to offer services through Internet.org that are more transparent and inclusive.

In addition to this, Facebook has said that Internet.org users will soon be able to beyond the initial limits of the portal and search for and use new third-party services.

Facebook has said that the platform will be open to all prospective developers, but developers must stick to three basic set of rules, firstly, services should encourage the exploration of the broader internet wherever possible, second, websites that require high bandwidth will not be included that is it should not use VoIP, video, file transfer, high resolution photos or high volume of photos, third, Facebook want partner services to be optimized for smart-phones and feature phones and be free from JavaScript or SSL/TLS/HTTPS elements.

Facebook also said that Internet.org is an open platform and anyone who meets these guidelines will be able to participate.

The project comes under criticism for alleged violating net neutrality rules by favoring certain carriers, sites and services after which many Indian companies pulled out of internet.org.