The GSMA’s latest report reveals that global mobile internet connectivity remains out of reach for 3.45 billion people, representing 43% of the world’s population. Despite yearly increases in mobile internet adoption, growth has slowed down, with only 160 million new users added in the past year, compared to more than 200 million annually from 2015 to 2021. The report, titled “State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024,” emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to bridge the connectivity gap.
It shows that 57% of the global population, or 4.6 billion people, now use mobile internet. The coverage gap, affecting 350 million people without access to mobile internet networks, is much smaller than the usage gap, with 3.1 billion people within reach of networks but not using the service. Sub-Saharan Africa is the least connected region, with a significant 60% usage gap.
The report identifies the usage gap as the main challenge, with potential economic gains of $3.5 trillion from 2023 to 2030 if connectivity is achieved, mostly benefiting low and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Mobile connectivity gaps persist globally
An investment of $418 billion is needed for infrastructure to enable universal access.
In LMICs, the high cost of devices and a lack of digital skills are major barriers to adoption. Basic internet-enabled devices represent 18% of the average monthly income, increasing to 51% for the world’s poorest 20%. In Sub-Saharan Africa, which accounts for a quarter of the global population without internet access, this figure rises to 99% of the average monthly income for the region’s poorest 20%.
The report also highlights the need for relevant, localized content, improved safety and security, and access to essential services like electricity to encourage mobile internet use. Despite daily usage among the majority, 43% of users in surveyed countries express a desire for increased use, indicating a need for meaningful connectivity and digital inclusion. GSMA Chief Regulatory Officer John Giusti said, “While progress continues to be made in improving infrastructure and in increasing mobile internet adoption, significant digital divides exist.
In addition, although most users access mobile internet daily, their activities are often limited to just one or two activities, even though many express a desire to do more.”
April Isaacs is a news contributor for DevX.com She is long-term, self-proclaimed nerd. She loves all things tech and computers and still has her first Dreamcast system. It is lovingly named Joni, after Joni Mitchell.
