Most of us are familiar with the expression, “It takes a village.” When it comes to bridging the digital divide — the phrase is particularly apropos. Given Kai’s dedication to this mission and technology solution,  A4AI invited the company to join in their quest to find a solution to this widespread inequality. The 2018 Affordability Report released by A4AI sheds light on the magnitude of the issue, as well as the challenges many within the digital divide are facing. According to the research, more than 2.3 billion people live in an area where even just 1GB of mobile data remains out of reach due to cost. This greatly impacts low- and middle-income economies,  where the cost of 1GB of data is more than 5% of their average monthly income — a price that is well over the affordable threshold of 1GB of data priced at 2% or less of average income. In fact, only 24 of the 61 countries assessed in the report have what is considered affordable internet; further illuminating the extent of the problem.
As the study concludes, the high cost to connect is keeping billions offline and pushing the global goal of universal internet access further out of reach. That’s where A4AI comes in. As the world’s broadest technology sector coalition — comprising over 90 member organizations from across the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors in developing and developed nations — they’re working to drive down the cost of internet access through policy and regulatory reform.
Together with like-minded companies and organizations, including Google, Microsoft, Intel, and WorldWideWeb Foundation, Kai is proud to support these collective efforts to reduce the cost to connect, and close the gap to make universal, affordable internet a reality for all. Check back on our blog for regular updates on Kai’s latest partnerships and programs as we continue to focus on expanding widespread access to mobile internet and offering advanced digital services.