The GSM Association (GSMA) has launched a global initiative called “Handset Affordability Coalition,” which targets increasing affordability of smartphones for low- and middle-income populations in Africa and Asia.
The coalition is composed of mobile operators, device manufacturers, international organizations and financial institutions working together to reduce the cost of internet-enabled devices that prevent 3 billion people from coming online despite being located within range of mobile broadband networks.
After all, even in the low-and middle-income countries entry-level mobile devices cost as much as 55% of the monthly income for the poorest populations. Backed by the World Bank and other key partners, The coalition seeks to identify innovative financing models that can decrease the costs of inexpensive handsets as well as reduce risk for investors.
This initiative aims to support global efforts in closing the digital divide and independently offering millions of people access to critical services like education, health care, and better economic opportunities available today only over digitally connected platforms.
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