Document :

ITU-D SG01  Contribution  28

Title :

Advancing Digital Inclusion By Addressing Handset Affordability

Date :

2025-04-08

Source :

GSM Association (United Kingdom)

AI/Question :

Q1/1

Meeting :

2026-04-13

Access :

Restricted to TIES users [ITU-D]

Abstract :

This contribution was initially intended for Question 1/1 and Question 5/1 from the previous study period, which corresponds to Question 1/1 for the 2026-2029 study period.
This contribution examines handset affordability as the primary barrier to mobile internet adoption. Noting that this challenge disproportionately affects women and rural populations, it outlines three policy levers governments can implement to tackle it: reducing device costs through tax reform, expanding financing options via innovative credit mechanisms and public-private partnerships, and enhancing willingness to pay through digital literacy programs and consumer protections. These strategic interventions can accelerate digital inclusion for underserved communities worldwide.