2G Shutdown Risks Leaving Millions Unconnected, Telcos Seek Affordable 4G Solutions
Summary
As telecom companies plan to shut down 2G networks, they face the challenge of ensuring affordable 4G access for millions who risk being left unconnected, prompting innovative solutions like free 4G feature phones and cloud-based technologies to bridge the digital divide.
Key Points
- Telecom companies aim to shut down 2G networks to free up mobile spectrum for 4G and 5G, but this risks leaving millions of vulnerable people without phone access.
- Vietnam successfully transitioned low-income 2G users to free 4G feature phones, while countries like India and South Africa are concerned about digital exclusion from a 2G shutdown.
- Reliance Jio in India and CloudMosa's Cloud Phone technology are trying to bridge the gap by offering affordable 4G feature phones with internet access.