Final answer:
The rate of growth of Internet-based applications could be affected by strategies of Internet service providers charging for downloads, potentially leading to a tiered Internet system and impacting accessibility.
This relates to net neutrality debates, with government regulation being a crucial factor in determining the outcome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The contention over charging users for downloading Internet-based applications is intrinsically linked to the debate on net neutrality.
This principle advocates for equal treatment of all data on the Internet, regardless of source or content. With service providers potentially charging for downloads, applications demanding significant bandwidth, like video streaming, could lead to a tiered system with preferential faster services for those who can afford it.
This scenario could indeed affect the rate of growth of such Internet-based applications as it introduces a barrier to accessibility and could possibly lead to a divide between big companies who can pay the premiums and smaller entities or individuals who cannot.
Such a strategy by Internet service providers could fundamentally shift the market, shaping not just consumption but also innovation and competition on the Internet.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and federal government are responsible for regulating how broadband providers should operate in order to maintain a balance and prevent the Internet from becoming divided into the 'haves' and 'have-nots'.