Few days after announcing that it will charge VoIP calls separately at standard rates, Airtel has launched a VoIP exclusive packs for pre-paid customers. Soon, a similar kind of VoIP pack will be announced for post-paid customers.
This VoIP pack costs Rs. 75 for 75 MB data with 28 days validity. But it was not confirmed that pack is applicable only for 2G or 3G or 4G. Users who have already purchased plans before December 24 will be able to use all services on their data plans. But from next recharge, they will be charged as per new VoIP rules.
Airtel said about the new VoIP pack,
Our Customers can enjoy a superior VoIP calling experience on Airtel’s network by choosing from a range of new VoIP specific data packs that will soon be launched. The Rs 75 package will allow customers to make between 200 and 250 minutes of calling. There would be no other charges in respective of VoIP calls.
VoIP services in their current form are not tenable for us as a business. As a result, we will charge separately for VoIP services. However, in line with our philosophy of putting our customers above all else – we are committed to making VoIP services extremely affordable and attractive by ensuring adequate minutes for a very small charge on VoIP.
Airtel said that its plans for VoIp will be rolled out in phased manner over next few weeks. Customers will be informed in advanced about the changes.
No Airtel customer is happy with this move and all are opposing. It is surprising why Airtel took this step which made all its customers unhappy. Government is also not happy with this move and Communications and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that the government will look into the issue.
If you look at rates, you will have to pay around Rs. 1000 for 1 GB internet connection. What the shit is this? Airtel, you are really doing it wrong. In this new digital age, when people can’t live without internet and VoIP calls, you are trying to take benefit of this by forcing users to pay extra. Just because you cannot increase the rate of existing data plans. Great move to lose customers.
Let us know what you think of Airtel’s VoIP pack plans. Comment below.
