WhatsApp has become the primary mode of communication for many in Pakistan and abroad. Youngsters are increasingly switching on to WhatsApp. WhatsApp automatically adds the contacts from your phone book and connects you through the internet. So every time you connect, you can instantly message your friends and family members just like the usual SMS. The software also updates about the last time you logged in and whether your messages have been received or not.
WhatsApp recently added a calling feature that would use the internet connection to call your friends. The application was not readily available. A friend in your list already using the feature had to send you a request that would allow you to download the feature on to your mobile. Many Pakistanis welcomed this feature. Telecommunication companies have automatically added Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter as a free service for their customers. So the customers were more than happy to have the calling feature that would allow calls for free.[junkie-alert style=”white”] The WhatsApp calling feature has threatened the revenues of the various telecommunication companies operating in Pakistan[/junkie-alert]
But this happy moment didn’t last for long for the Ufone customers, as Ufone has decided to charge WhatsApp calls as per regular data tariffs i: e Rs 20 for the 1st MB and then 19MBs free. The regular usage of WhatsApp will be charged from data bundles volumes as per routine.
This new stance taken by Ufone is expected to be adopted soon by other telecommunication companies, as it will threaten the existence of the various telecommunication companies, especially in a market where voice revenues are still notable and contribute a major share to the overall revenues of telecom operators. Earlier, WhatsApp Calls were part of internet buckets. Ufone customers are protesting on this update and they are demanding Ufone to take this decision back.
The 3G network has turned out to be a blessing for the new calling feature of WhatsApp and this has enabled many to connect at low rates through the calling feature. The telecommunication companies have been disappointed by this development as it will cause a major cut back on their revenues.