ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Zero-rating

Zero-rating is when some companies, like phone or internet providers, allow you to use certain apps or websites without using any of your internet data. It's like being able to eat ice cream without using any of your allowance because your mom says it's okay.

For example, let's say you have a phone plan that zero-rates Instagram. This means that when you use Instagram on your phone, even though you are technically using the internet, it won't count towards your monthly data limit. You can use Instagram as much as you want without worrying about running out of data or getting charged extra. This makes it easier and more affordable to use certain apps or websites that you really like.

However, some people think zero-rating is unfair because it can give an advantage to certain companies over others. For example, if your phone plan zero-rates Instagram but not TikTok, you might be more likely to use Instagram, even if you like TikTok just as much. This could put TikTok at a disadvantage because fewer people are using it. Some people also argue that zero-rating goes against the idea of net neutrality, which means that the internet should treat all websites and apps equally, without giving preferential treatment to any.