GSMA Calls for Renewed Focus on Bridging Internet Usage Gap Globally

GSMA's Call to Close the Internet Usage Gap

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association, widely known as GSMA, has issued a compelling call for a revamped strategy to address the significant disparities in internet accessibility and usage around the globe. According to the latest report from GSMA, as of September 2025, over 4.7 billion people, which accounts for 58% of the world’s population, now utilizes mobile internet services through their personal devices. However, the report also highlights a stark reality: 3.1 billion people remain disconnected, illustrating a critical gap in internet usage that extends beyond mere availability.

The data indicates that even though 96% of the global population resides in areas with mobile internet coverage, the usage disparity persists. These 3.1 billion individuals, or 38% of the world population, find themselves within what is termed the 'usage gap.' This gap hints at deeper barriers—cultural, economic, or infrastructure-related—that prevent people from utilizing the available services.

Moreover, 300 million individuals (approximately 4% of the global population) live in regions without any mobile internet connectivity. This alarming statistic reveals that a substantial 3.4 billion people were without access to mobile internet services in 2024, highlighting the pressing need for action.

Primarily, mobile devices are the main, if not the only, means of accessing the internet for many individuals residing in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Currently, these devices constitute 84% of global internet connections, with a staggering 93% of the unconnected population situated in LMICs.

The affordability of acquiring a basic internet-enabled device remains a barrier. Since 2021, this cost has consistently represented around 16% of the average monthly income in these regions, climbing to as much as 48% for the poorest 20% of the population. Given this financial hurdle, GSMA's CEO Vivek Badrinath proposes a tangible solution: a device priced at $30 could potentially make mobile internet accessible to as many as 1.6 billion individuals currently unable to connect.

Badrinath emphasizes, "To achieve this, a concerted and collaborative effort is required among mobile industry players, device manufacturers, policy makers, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. This collective responsibility is vital."

The CEO underscored the undeniable socio-economic benefits that internet connectivity can provide. For millions, essential services such as healthcare, education, and banking have increasingly transitioned online, predominantly accessed through mobile devices. "In 96% of the world, the infrastructure for connectivity is already in place. Overcoming the remaining barriers is crucial to ensure that existing digital divides do not widen, and more of the 3.1 billion people can reap the life-changing benefits of connectivity,” he added.

To gain deeper insights, the complete report, State of Mobile Internet Connectivity, is available for review.

In summary, the need for a renewed focus on closing the internet usage gap cannot be overstated. As the GSMA highlights, achieving global connectivity requires a multi-faceted approach involving various sectors and collaborative efforts, keeping in mind that the goal is not just to expand coverage but to ensure that everyone can benefit from the resources that access to the internet provides.