Closing the Divide

Technology #1: Smartphones

We may already have the solution to closing the digital divide. Smartphone usage has

increased in the recent years, and this can be attributed to a variety of factors. One of the leading

factors is smartphones are a cheaper option than other means of communication and internet

access. Home broadband subscriptions have risen in price and computers are very expensive as

well. Smartphones also offer much better internet access for people living in rural areas.

Smartphones are also much more convenient and accessible than other forms of technology. You

can carry it in your pocket all day and have the same amenities a home computer has to offer.

Lastly, you can’t ignore the fact that while phone companies like Apple and Samsung sell new

and very expensive phone models, there are also older phone models made by these same

companies that are cheaper and perform many of the same functions that are available for sale.

Technology #2: White Spaces by Microsoft

White Spaces are defined as unused channels between television broadcasts and this

technology uses low-powered television channels to cover long distances and can penetrate

concrete walls. Microsoft believes White Space technology can provide extremely fast internet

service to rural Americans. You can image that this same technology could also be introduced to

other countries who also struggle with a lack of internet access. If this program were to work

correctly, Microsoft said over 80% of people in rural America who lack broadband can finally

have access to fast internet access.