Airtel backtracks; puts VoIP packs on hold

BENGALURU: Airtel has said that it will not be implementing its proposed launch of Voice over IP ( VoIP) packages that sought to charge users separately for services like Skype and Viber.

"In view of the news reports that a consultation paper will be issued shortly by TRAI on issues relating to services offered by OTT players including VOIP, we have decided not to implement our proposed launch of VoIP packs," the company said on Monday.

Airtel’s move was heavily criticised by consumers.

The telecom operators move was seen as a breach of network neutrality, the notion that service providers must not differentiate between the traffic that flows over their network so that every user and service has equal access to the network.

Last week, Airtel said that customers will have to pay more if they use services like Skype or Viber that use VoIP to make calls as it was eating into their revenues.

Breaking network neutrality would stifle innovation and create anti-competitive practices, experts said.

Airtel added that it’s hopeful that the interests of all stakeholders and viability of the sector will be taken into consideration during the consultation.