Smartphone: Are smartphones hindering the pace of Digital India? Here are the full details...

Today, India is among the few countries in the world where 99% of the population has access to 4G and 82% of areas have 5G networks. Yet, approximately 690 million Indians remain disconnected from the internet. This shocking statistic was shared by GSMA Director General Vivek Badrinath at the India Mobile Congress.

According to him, India's real digital challenge is no longer the network, but something else. The technology is available, but many people are unable to use it because they either don't have a smartphone or don't know how to use it.

Satellite will not be the solution.
These days, satellite broadband companies like Starlink and OneWeb are gaining popularity. These companies claim to provide internet access to remote areas. However, the GSMA Director General clearly states that satellite technology can only fill the coverage gap, that is, it can provide some help where there is no network. But India's real problem is not coverage, but the ability to connect.

Three major barriers: Phones, skills, and language
The GSMA stated that three major barriers stand in the way of Digital India: smartphone affordability, digital literacy and skills, and the lack of relevant content in local languages. Although data in India is among the cheapest in the world, many people still cannot afford a good smartphone.

The picture of Digital India is impressive, but incomplete.
India's digital transformation has been rapid. The pace of 5G rollout is considered the fastest in the world. More than 360 million people have been connected to 5G networks. However, the GSMA's "Digital Nation India" report shows that half of India's population is still without internet access. The GSMA emphasized that the digital divide isn't just about smartphones or networks, but also includes gender differences. Women are 33% more likely to be disconnected from the internet than men.

Online Fraud: Another Major Concern
Another major concern is the fear of online fraud. According to reports, nearly 50% of Indians have been victims of online fraud at some point. This has made people afraid to use the internet. The GSMA stated that banks, telecoms, and tech companies must work together to combat this problem.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from TV9. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.