Archive for the ‘Digital Divide’ Category

September 22nd, 2011
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New report reveals falling cost of broadband

A new report from the International Telecommunication Union has revealed that prices for fixed-broadband services have dramatically decreased between 2008 and 2010 across the globe, reflecting an increase in competition amoungst internet providers.

The report, ‘Measuring the Information Society 2011,’ revealed price decreases of over 50% in some regions such as Africa, as well as a 47% price decrease in Asia and the Pacific. In the Arab States, prices fell by 35% and by 18% in Europe. Only the Americas saw a price decrease of less than 10%. Such figures reflect a narrowing of the broadband price divide considering the far larger decreases in the price of broadband in developing countries. (more…)

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August 24th, 2011
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Recent research reveals BRIC nations still suffer from digital divide

A recent study by risk analysis firm Maplecroft has revealed that whilst undergoing continuous development, the BRIC nations are still finding difficulties in bridging the digital divide.

The study attempted to find levels of digital inclusion, that is, the ability within the countries to access and use information technologies. Results showed India lying in the extreme risk category, showing a severe lack of digital inclusion within the country. Brazil, Russia, and China were all placed in the medium risk categories. This is despite higher than average growth rates over the past decade for these countries.

However, recent plans in India to increase access to information technologies, such as expanding access to 3G networks across the country could see a narrowing of the digital divide. Whether such services are affordable on a wide scale remains to be seen.

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