Facebook app on the Google Play Store and is currently available for download in Kenya and Indonesia.
This app helps users locate and purchase internet connection from local business owners who use Wi-Fi hot spots called “Wi-Fi zones” in their area.
People in developing countries can now access high-speed broadband through these local telecommunications at reasonable prices, instead of paying high prices for cellular connections, which are usually slow and intermittent.
Unlike Facebook's much-criticized Free Basics program (formerly known as Internet.org), which aims to provide only low-bandwidth services approved by the company, Express Wi-Fi offers a full, unlimited version of the web.
Although Express Wi-Fi is already a local service in five developing countries, namely India, Tanzania, Indonesia, Kenya and Nigeria, the app is currently available in only two countries.
In a statement provided to TechCrunch, a spokesperson said: “Facebook is releasing the Express Wi-Fi app on the Google Play store to give people an alternative, simple and secure way to access fast and affordable internet through local Express Wi-Fi hotspots.”.
At a time when Facebook's user base is reaching saturation point or even declining in developed countries, this application can help boost its popularity in developing countries, overcoming weak or expensive internet connection problems.
