Calling all developers: Facebook wants and needs your help for a new online content and application platform geared toward helping those not on the Internet get on the Internet.
In launching the Internet.org initiative, the social network site says the open program strategy is to help spur services that will be compatible with Internet.org and expand choice over free basic services for those in emerging markets, such as India, and remote and rural areas.
"Our goal with Internet.org is to work with as many developers and entrepreneurs as possible to extend the benefits of connectivity to diverse, local communities. To do this, we're going to offer services through Internet.org in a way that's more transparent and inclusive," stated Facebook on Monday.
The effort, claims a news report, initially began in February when Facebook partnered with Reliance Communications to kick off Internet.org in India, but the initiative in the country stalled after protests alleged the quest violated net neutrality principles.
Facebook says it's aiming to forge nonexclusive collaborations with mobile operators to drive free basic online services using the Internet.org platform. The goal is to create a group of websites and services to show non-Internet users the beauty of the Internet and to "add value to their lives."
Any developer willing to adhere to the specific guidelines of creating simple and data efficient websites can be involved, said Facebook.
"Websites do not pay to be included, and operators don't charge developers for the data people use for their services," explained Facebook. "But giving people more choice over the services they use is incredibly important and going forward, people using Internet.org will be able to search for and use services that meet these guidelines."
There are three distinct principles developers and mobile operators will need to follow: provide the ability for users to explore the entire Internet; create efficient apps; and build websites that don't require high-bandwidth, which means no video, high-res photos, VoIP or file transfer services. Also, no JavaScript or SSL/TSL/HTTPS can be incorporated.
"The Internet.org Platform aims to give people valuable free services that they can use to discover the entire wealth of online services and, ultimately become paying users of the Internet," stated Facebook.
