Information Society Watch

September 2007, id21 insights

This issue of id21 insights presents snapshots of research on the role and the impact of mobile phones across the developing world. Studies show the 'incremental benefits', such as offering cheaper means of communication, as well as the 'transformational benefits', such as creating new means of livelihood, that mobile phones bring. On the other hand, the spread of mobile phones create a new 'mobile divide' akin to the 'digital divide', between those who own them and those who do not. The introduction of mobile phones might strengthen the existing power structures as well as gender inequities, as some studies illustrate. In short, as with all technologies mobile phones also present possibilities and limitations. The key though is to ensure that effective policy mechanisms are in place to capitalise on the possibilities.

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