Watching Mobile Ads Could Earn Free Data

Boston-based startup Aquto is working with mobile carriers to offer additional mobile Internet data — in exchange for consumers’ engagement with brands. If users watch specific ads, or try a new app on a mobile device, the user will be rewarded with a data boost of up to several gigabytes through the user’s cell carrier. Marketers could work directly with Aquto or its ad network partners to present ads via its Kickbit iOS/Android app — or on third-party sites and apps. As users move away from unlimited cell plans, this model might provide a viable incentive for maintaining engagement across platforms. Aquto is starting the service later this year, beginning with eligible Vodafone subscribers in Europe.