Big Tech’s Free AI Offers in India Raise Data Privacy Concerns
Major tech companies are offering free access to AI tools in India, sparking debates about data collection and market strategy. ChatGPT's new 'Go' chatbot will be available for free to millions of Indians for a year, following similar moves by Google and Perplexity AI. These companies have partnered with local telecom giants like Reliance Jio and Airtel to bundle AI services with data plans.
Analysts warn these offers are strategic plays rather than altruistic gestures. Tarun Pathak of Counterpoint Research notes that Big Tech aims to familiarize India's young, tech-savvy population with generative AI before introducing paid models. The initiative targets India's vast digital market, seen as crucial for future AI adoption.