The report highlights that while only 4% of the global population lacks mobile broadband coverage (the “coverage gap”), a staggering 3.1 billion people reside in covered areas but are not online. This usage gap is nearly ten times larger than the coverage gap, underscoring that mere infrastructure availability does not equate to adoption.
Several factors contribute to this persistent usage gap:
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Affordability: The high cost of internet-enabled devices remains a significant barrier, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In these regions, entry-level smartphones can cost up to 18% of an individual’s monthly income, making them inaccessible to many.
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Digital Literacy: Many people lack digital literacy and skills, which prevents them from engaging with mobile internet services, even when they are available.
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Safety and Security Concerns: Fears related to online safety and data privacy deter potential users from adopting mobile internet.
Regional Disparities: – The usage gap is more pronounced in certain regions. For instance, Sub-Saharan Africa is the least connected region globally, with only 27% of the population using mobile internet services. This leaves a 13% coverage gap and a 60% usage gap, reflecting significant challenges in both infrastructure and adoption.
Economic Implications – Closing the usage gap is a matter of digital inclusion and an economic imperative. The GSMA estimates that bridging this divide could generate an additional $3.5 trillion in GDP globally between 2023 and 2030, with 90% of this growth benefiting LMICs.
Industry Initiatives – Industry stakeholders are taking action to recognize the multifaceted barriers to mobile internet adoption. In July 2024, the GSMA announced a global coalition to make smartphones more accessible and affordable for the world’s poorest populations. This initiative includes mobile operators, vendors, and international institutions such as the World Bank Group and the United Nations’ ITU, working collaboratively to lower the cost of entry into the digital economy.
Addressing the mobile internet usage gap requires a concerted effort to tackle affordability, enhance digital literacy, and ensure online safety. As a GSMA representative emphasized, “Mobile internet is a powerful tool for economic and social development. Closing the usage gap is essential for achieving a more inclusive digital future.” By implementing comprehensive strategies that address these barriers, stakeholders can work towards a more digitally inclusive world, ensuring that the benefits of mobile internet are accessible to all.
