Airtel has just confirmed that it will now charge extra for VoIP calls on 3G and 2G even if you are using data packs. So, if you make a voice call on Skype using Airtel 3G for few minutes and consumes about 100 MB data, you will be charged based on data charges. If you have data plan, it will not be deducted from that.
This was spotted by telecomtalk which saw the changes iin Airtel’s terms and conditions. You can also check the terms and conditions on Airtel tariff page. See the last point.
All Internet/data packs or plans (through which customer can avail discounted rate) shall only be valid for internet browsing and will exclude VoIP (Both incoming/ Outgoing).
VoIP over data connectivity would be charged at standard data rates of 4p / 10 KB (3G service) and 10p / 10 KB (2G service).
Earlier this year, telecom companies also requested TRAI to put a charge on messaging and VoIP apps but the proposal was rejected.
Now, Airtel has come up with this move. It is really bad if we see from consumer’s point of view. We all use smartphone for messaging and video calling. Putting separate charge will surely make millions of Airtel consumers unhappy. People use video calls to talk to relatives and friends live in other city or country. This will surely hurt them.
What do you think about this move? Share your views with us via comments.
Source: Telecomtalk
