Facebook’s Internet.org has connected almost 100M to the “Internet”

Facebook is getting the developing world online, even as the developed world criticizes its privacy practices. Mark Zuckerberg said today on Facebook’s Q1 2018 earnings call that “our Internet.org efforts have helped almost 100 million peopel get access to the internet who may not have had it otherwise”. That’s up from 40 million in November 2016.

Internet.org uses its Free Basics app with access to low-bandwidth services and Express Wi-fi hotspots operated by local merchants to give people connectivity. Facebook is also testing its Aquila solar powered drone which will be able to beam bandwidth down to users in remote areas.

Most recently, Facebook is reported to be seeking government approval to test Aquila for delivering LTE access in New Mexico.