GSMA Calls for Renewed Focus on Bridging Digital Divide for Global Connectivity

The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity: Challenges Ahead

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) has recently published its flagship report titled State of Mobile Internet Connectivity, which presents concerning statistics about global internet usage. As of now, approximately 4.7 billion individuals, representing 58% of the global population, utilize mobile internet services on their own devices. This figure sounds promising until we delve deeper into the shocking reality: more than 3 billion people, nearly 38% of the world, remain offline despite living in areas where mobile internet is accessible.

Understanding the Digital Divide

This prevalent phenomenon is referred to as the “Usage Gap.” It highlights that even when mobile internet coverage is available, various barriers continue to prevent a significant number of individuals from accessing online services. Alarmingly, an additional 300 million people find themselves in what is termed the “Supply Gap,” lacking any access to mobile internet altogether. Thus, as of 2024, a staggering 3.4 billion individuals will still be unconnected.

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the mobile phone remains the primary or even the sole means of accessing the internet for many people. Shockingly, mobile devices account for 84% of the world's internet connections. Of the individuals not connected, about 93% reside in LMICs.

Economic Challenges to Connectivity

The affordability of internet-enabled devices has not improved significantly since 2021. For a large section of the population, especially among the poorest 20%, the cost of a basic smartphone constitutes a substantial portion of their average monthly income—48%. Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA, stated that a device costing around $30 has the potential to make mobile connectivity affordable for approximately 1.6 billion individuals who currently cannot connect to available mobile internet.

He emphasizes the need for collaboration among stakeholders in the mobile industry, device manufacturers, policymakers, financial institutions, and other players to tackle this pressing issue. It’s a shared responsibility that calls for unified action.

The Socioeconomic Importance of Connectivity

Access to the internet undoubtedly brings significant socio-economic benefits to individuals and communities. Essential services like healthcare, education, and banking are increasingly being accessed online; for billions, this means primarily through mobile phones. In fact, it is estimated that 96% of the globe has the infrastructure in place to access the internet via mobile devices. Addressing the remaining obstacles is crucial to ensure that existing digital divides are reduced rather than widened, allowing many more of the 3.1 billion disconnected individuals to benefit from life-changing connectivity.

The Path Forward

The GSMA’s report serves as a crucial reminder that while we have made substantial progress in mobile internet connectivity, there is still a long road ahead to ensure equitable access for all. Bridging the digital divide entails not only improving infrastructure but also addressing financial, educational, and societal barriers that restrict access. Only through a comprehensive, collaborative approach can we aspire to connect every individual to the digital world, thus unlocking countless opportunities for growth and development.

For those interested in the full report and further information, visit GSMA's official website.