In recent months, Big AI has expanded its presence in India, capitalizing on strategic partnerships with major mobile networks. Notably, Aravind Srinivas’s Perplexity collaborated with Airtel to provide free access to its Pro version, valued at Rs 17,000 annually. Following suit, Jio teamed up with Google’s Sundar Pichai to offer free Gemini Pro for 18 months to young users. OpenAI also joined the fray, extending free premium plans to Indian users. This trend sparks discussions on AI democratization but raises concerns over potential bait-and-switch tactics, as companies aim to lock users into their ecosystems once initial offers end. Experts question whether consumers truly need premium AI features, suggesting that companies are stimulating demand amidst rapid technological growth. The strategy echoes past moves by quick commerce firms and Jio’s disruption of data markets. However, the backlash against predatory pricing and the lack of local alternatives in AI may complicate long-term success in India’s vibrant digital landscape.
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