What are the most effective ISP business models and strategies for emerging markets?

The free-WiFi hotspots sponsored by businesses is a lucrative model for businesses to collect the WiFi footprint of customers and use it for marketing . ISPs should quantify the benefits of providing free WiFi hotspots to business to attract, retain, cross and upsell products to the footprint captured . A partnership between ISP, businesses and WiFi users is a win-win-win combo . Businesses can upsell higher bandwidth for additional prices points in the freemium model. .

The approach of offering low-cost and flexible plans for internet access in emerging markets is not only strategic but also socially impactful. Companies like BRCK and Jio are leading examples of how ISPs can drive digital inclusion while still running a profitable business model. By focusing on affordability and adaptability, ISPs can cater to a wider customer base, addressing the economic disparities that often hinder internet adoption. Moreover, innovative payment solutions like pay-as-you-go and data sharing reflect a deep understanding of the local consumer behavior, which is crucial for sustainability in these markets. This user-centric model could serve as a blueprint for ISPs looking to enter or expand in similar markets globally

Simple question about the free WiFi "detect the footprint of the user" : whenever I connect to a public/free wifi (such as in stores, for example), I immediately fire up VPN which should (?) encrypt all my traffic. Shouldn't that interfere with the collection of the "WiFi Footprint"? curious ...

PART 1: ISP business models and strategies for emerging markets. Low cost does not solve the interconnectivity problem; neither should it be thought that charging dearly is the solution. When talking about "emerging", it is necessary to remove the stigma associated with this word. As for strategies, thousands have been proposed to date, but none have worked. First, let's reconsider the situation from another perspective: society as a whole has a need for a secure, fast and reliable connection. This reminds me of the great yet unachieved idea of the fictional character Richard Hendriks in the SILICON VALLEY series, who sought "a new internet". In the next article I will explain why I refer to this series. See you soon!

PART 2 Hendriks' proposal in the SILICON VALLEY series was to use cell phones to create a vast network, also incorporating his own compression, in order to develop a decentralized version of today's Internet. Most important to Hendriks' aspiration, however, was the ultimate goal: information would be free in every possible way, without firewalls, fees, government regulation or spies. It is crucial to note that this last goal, in my opinion, represents the bottleneck that is holding back development. There are many interests at stake if populations are to benefit from this type of technology. Many companies that benefit from insider information would certainly be threatened. I will continue.

Distribution is one of the biggest factors that could be a denominator for the success of an ISP, after pricing dynamics. In emerging economies where cable TV is relevant, can be effectively partnered with to increase reach and distribution.

Community networks and partnerships represent a vital step towards democratizing internet access in emerging markets. ISPs like Zenzeleni and AlterMundi showcase the power of community collaboration and innovation, harnessing solar power and mesh network technologies. These models not only provide practical solutions to infrastructural challenges but also empower local communities by involving them directly in the provision and management of their internet services. Such grassroots approaches are key to achieving inclusive digital growth and highlight the importance of sustainable and community-driven technology deployments in bridging the digital divide.

Community networks and partnerships represent a vital step towards democratizing internet access in emerging markets. ISPs like Zenzeleni and AlterMundi showcase the power of community collaboration and innovation, harnessing solar power and mesh network technologies. These models not only provide practical solutions to infrastructural challenges but also empower local communities by involving them directly in the provision and management of their internet services. Such grassroots approaches are key to achieving inclusive digital growth and highlight the importance of sustainable and community-driven technology deployments in bridging the digital divide.

Bundling of TV, phone, Fiber Internet and streaming services is pioneered by Airtel in India bringing down the total cost for the consumers

Apart from video streaming services, OTT platform bundling, ISPs are trying to become more than just telecom player. For example, ISPs are now trying to provide financial services such as digital wallets, personal loans, credit scores and credit cards which can have auto debit facility of the telecom bill.

Innovation and adaptation is a key growth driver in emerging markets. For example, in the mid 2000s when broadband adoption was in its infancy in India, provided value added services at no cost such as streaming the latest regional movies for a limited time and mind you this was way before online streaming services were mainstream and this bundling of VAS free of cost was a key driver of growth and enabled rapid adoption of broadband services.

I would like to add some thoughts about infrastructure available for ISP because it defines further pricing. Investments into xPON networks will require higher price but this type is future proof. It is difficult to ignore Moore’s Law concerning acceleration of processor productivity operating in industry provided these processors with data from internet ??. Fiber to the building approach ( with fiber to the switch and copper UTP cable from switch to residence) is acceptable with in densely populated multi-dwelling units in big cities. Usage of aerial cable network or cables in a duct is dependent on local authorities.