Facebook wants to bring its free internet service to the US, claims report

Facebook is planning to launch its subsidized internet service in the US, according to a report from The Washington Post. The service, known as Free Basics, would provide limited internet access to rural and low-income areas through deals with wireless carriers. The service would prioritize Facebook’s services over others. A version of this same service was recently banned by regulators in India because it was deemed as giving an unfair advantage to Facebook. It has faced similar challenges in Egypt.

The Post’s report says that Facebook is currently talking to US government officials in an effort to avoid the troubles it has faced in other countries. US carriers, such as AT&T and T-Mobile, already offer similarly zero-rated programs, which provide free data for certain music, video, and internet services.

It’s not yet clear how far Facebook has gotten with its efforts, or what exactly the US version of Free Basics will offer. The Post says Facebook has not tried to partner with major carriers, such as AT&T and T-Mobile, for the service, instead opting for smaller carriers.