Airtel-Perplexity to Jio-Gemini: Why global AI giants are offering free premium access in India

Big AI companies are offering premium services for free in India, aiming to attract users and gather data. While presented as democratizing access, this strategy mirrors past tech industry tactics of ‘bait and switch.’ Experts question if the average Indian user will upgrade, given the availability of free versions and the challenge of demonstrating clear value.

Extra: America's Anxiety Over Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence’s rapid rise is causing anxiety for many, as it is already transforming the way we live and work.
The concern is particularly high among young generations, who are wondering how it will change the labor market in the coming decades. But parents are also seeing the dangers AI