Free Basics by Facebook (now defunct) was a program that offered a limited set of free internet services to users in developing countries. It wasn[SQ]t a standalone Android app in the way you might think of typical apps, but rather a platform accessed through a dedicated app or through a mobile operator[SQ]s network.

Key features and limitations included :

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Limited access:

Users couldn[SQ]t access the entire internet. Only a curated selection of websites and services were available, primarily focused on basic information and Facebook[SQ]s own services. This was a major point of criticism.

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Zero-rating:

The data used to access Free Basics was often "zero-rated," meaning it didn[SQ]t count against the user[SQ]s mobile data plan. However, this also meant that users were effectively locked into using only the services offered through the program.

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Controversial:

Free Basics faced significant backlash for being criticized as a form of "walled garden" that restricted internet access and violated net neutrality principles. The argument was that it prioritized Facebook[SQ]s services over others and prevented users from exploring the full potential of the internet.

It[SQ]s important to note that Free Basics is no longer operational.

Facebook discontinued the program in 2016, largely due to the regulatory and ethical concerns surrounding it. There is no longer an Android app or any other way to access it.