The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) wants to make smartphones more affordable in India. In an effort to promote digital inclusion in the country, TRAI is seeking public comments on ways to make smartphones more affordable in India.
TRAI’s consultation paper on “Digital Inclusion in the Era of Emerging Technologies” will examine government’s efforts, particularly its emphasis on promoting domestic smartphone manufacturing, are effective in reducing smartphone prices in India.
“What measures should be taken to make digital devices and digital connectivity affordable to the citizens for empowering them to maximize the benefits of an inclusive digital society?” TRAI questions in the consultation paper.
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In its paper, TRAI has referenced two key points: smartphone financing and the feasibility of second-hand smartphones in India. TRAI is concerned about the rapid pace of technological advancements and the introduction of 5G services, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. TRAI believes that unless these technologies if not made affordable and accessible to marginalised communities and underserved areas, pose a risk of widening the digital divide.
“Unequal access of infrastructure, limited digital literacy, and affordability issues could hinder the equitable distribution and utilization of emerging technologies, exacerbating existing disparities in digital inclusion. To ensure comprehensive digital inclusion, it is imperative to address the gaps which are likely to arise due to emerging technologies,” TRAI told PTI.
TRAI has set a deadline of October 16 for submitting comments and October 31 for submitting counter-comments on the paper.
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