Staff Reporter : Robi Axiata PLC and Meta have jointly introduced a new feature that allows Robi and Airtel customers to view photos on Facebook and use Messenger even without an active data balance.
Previously, Facebook users in Bangladesh without data could only access a text-only version of the platform. With this new development, Robi and Airtel customers will now be able to view both text and photos on Facebook without data. While the feature does not stream Facebook videos, users without a data balance will be able to see a still image or thumbnail for videos, and streaming will resume once a data connection is restored.
To help users stay informed, Robi will display a pop-up notification showing the user’s current data balance, enabling them to make informed decisions about purchasing internet packs or taking a data loan, which they can do using mobile financial services (MFS) and bank cards or accounts.
This initiative by Robi and Meta marks a significant step in advancing Bangladesh’s digital inclusion efforts. By enabling continued access to Facebook including essential information related to government services, education, and healthcare even without data, the feature is expected to boost digital literacy and contribute to broader socio-economic development.
ABOUT ROBI : Robi Axiata PLC. (“Robi”) is a public limited company, where Asian telecom giant, Axiata Group Berhad, based in Malaysia, holds the majority shareholding (61.82%). Aside from the public shareholders (10%), the global telecom giant, Bharti Airtel, headquartered in New Delhi, India, holds 28.18% of shares in the company. Robi is the second largest mobile network operator in Bangladesh creating new digital experiences for the people of the country. Through sustained investment Robi has created a robust telecom infrastructure to deliver innovation to all corners of the country. In addition to delivering its innovative digital products and services, the country-wide telecom infrastructure serves as the key enabler for the growing digital eco-system of the country. Be it urban or rural, people find their way to Digital Bangladesh through Robi.