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Carriers are looking for any edge to get more customers on their network. T-Mobile has been loudly offering free data streaming for music and video services. Now, Verizon is starting to accept applications for their own free data program. Some Verizon customers are receiving emails to sign up for a “Mobile Data Beta Opportunity.” This beta will allow Verizon customers to take advantage of “sponsored data.”
The beta sign-up page explains, “Verizon is working with various partners, and if you view the content from those partners while on a mobile connection, you will not be charged for that data.” Think of it like Google Opinion Rewards, but for data. Take a quick survey, watch an ad, or sign up for a trial and you get some extra data added to your plan. Third parties pick up the bill in exchange for time in front of your eyes.
If you’re a Verizon customer you can sign up for the beta right now. Verizon is working with a limited amount of companies right now, but they are aiming for a larger group next year. Just like T-Mobile’s Music Freedom and BingeOn, this will raise concerns about a level playing field for all businesses. Not everyone will be able to afford to pay Verizon for the opportunity. What do you think? Are you signing up for the program?
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