GSMA Finds Mobile Wireless Usage Gap in Asia-Pacific Region

The Asia-Pacific region faces a wireless usage gap, said a Thursday GSMA report. Mobile broadband networks cover about 96% of POPs in the region, “a testament to operators’ investment in 3G, 4G and, increasingly, 5G infrastructure,” but just 44% are using mobile internet services, GSMA said. “This means that more than half of the population live in areas covered by a mobile broadband network but do not yet subscribe to a mobile internet service,” the report said: “The main reasons for the usage gap include the lack of digital skills (especially among older populations), lack of affordability among low-income households and online safety concerns among minority and vulnerable population groups.”