Document :

ITU-D SG02 RAPPORTEUR GROUP MEETING  Contribution  75

Title :

Reflections on the GSMA State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2026 Report: the memory price crisis and its implications for handset affordability

Date :

2026-09-22

Source :

GSM Association

AI/Question :

Q4/2

Meeting :

2026-10-07

Access :

Restricted to TIES users [ITU-D]

Abstract :

This paper reflects on the GSMA State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2026 Report, highlighting handset affordability as one of the most pressing barriers to digital inclusion. While mobile broadband networks now reach most of the world's population, billions of people remain offline because they cannot afford the smartphones needed to connect, a challenge felt most acutely by low-income households, women and rural communities. The paper also explores how rising AI-driven demand for memory components risks increasing the cost of entry-level devices, potentially widening the digital divide. It argues that governments have a critical role to play in reducing handset costs, expanding access to financing and strengthening digital skills, trust and relevant services so that connectivity, and the opportunities created by AI, are accessible to all.