A telecom and device maker coalition aims to bring 20 million people online with $40 smartphones, but faces challenges from rising component costs. The initiative represents a significant push for digital inclusion in emerging markets. However, achieving the target price point remains difficult due to global supply chain pressures.
Background
Affordable smartphone access is crucial for digital inclusion in developing countries where cost remains a major barrier to internet adoption. Previous initiatives like Android Go and feature phone conversions have attempted to address this market segment.
- Source
- TechCrunch
- Published
- Mar 8, 2026 at 01:00 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10