WhatsApp rival Hike launches Android mobile phones that work without net

Hike is teaming up with Intex Technologies, Karbonn Mobiles to introduce new smartphones, which will cost Rs 3,500-5,000

WhatsApp rival Hike of India is introducing a version of Android that lets users message, make payments and access information without an active data connection, seeking to offer services to people who aren’t yet able to access the internet. 

The modified mobile software, called Total, will be available on four devices starting March, Hike said in a statement Wednesday. People will be able to message, access news, purchase bus tickets, get cricket scores, pay bills and recharge data allowances through a single login. Total uses technology that communicates with networks in a different way than standard wireless networks. Access can be