The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of the internet and the critical role of mobile technology, which is the primary way most people access the internet. Mobile internet is providing access to critical information, services and opportunities, in addition to supporting economic growth. Great strides have been made in delivering digital inclusion and connecting the unconnected; almost half the world’s population now use mobile internet. But more is required to drive digital inclusion and ensure no one is left behind in an increasingly connected world.

Successfully increasing levels of mobile internet coverage, adoption and usage means adopting a data-driven approach to policymaking, with priorities determined by a country’s local context and level of digital development. The GSMA’s Mobile Connectivity Index (MCI) facilitates this type of data-centric analysis and evidence-based decisions. This report provides guidelines for policymakers on how to use the MCI to understand where to focus efforts in order to drive increased mobile internet coverage, adoption and usage.