Two people are sitting on the ground, one holding a smartphone displaying a message, while the other holds a small object. The ground is covered with dried grass. Both are wearing colorful clothing.

GSMA Handset Affordability Coalition

The GSMA Handset Affordability Coalition is a global coalition which brings together key stakeholders to advance innovative solutions to enhance handset affordability for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Africa and Asia.

What is the Usage Gap?

Approximately 3 billion people or 38% of the global population live in an area covered by mobile broadband but do not use mobile internet services. This is known as the usage gap, and it deprives individuals of access to essential information and services.

Mobile Access in Low- and-Middle-Income Countries

In LMICs, mobile broadband remains the primary, and often the only way, of accessing the internet. Despite widespread awareness of digital services, one of the main barriers remains the affordability and accessibility of internet-capable devices. In LMICs, entry-level mobile devices typically consume 16% of monthly incomes on average, with this figure rising to 44% for the poorest 40% and 55% for the poorest 20% of the population.

Our Mission

Addressing handset affordability is crucial for bridging the digital divide, maximising business opportunities and empowering all people to participate fully in the global digital economy.

Our Approach

To tackle his challenge, the GSMA has formed a global coalition bringing together:

Mobile Operators
Device Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)
Device Ecosystem
International Organisations
Financing Institutions.

Handset affordability is not a new issue. Companies have been working for years to bring down the cost of entry-level devices. Yet, by working together, this coalition is committed to spearheading ideas and strategies to improve handset affordability and close the usage gap.

Moving Forward

The GSMA’s role is to facilitate and inspire collaboration among coalition members, unlock partnerships, and develop best practices and insights for the deployment of innovative models tailored to effectively narrow the usage gap.

Meet the Coalition Members

Coalition Lead

Mobile Operators

Device Original Equipment Manufacturers

Device Ecosystem

Financing Institutions

International Organisations

Foundation

Useful Resources

Relevant resources from coalition members

State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2023

Read the report

Making
internet-enabled
phones more
affordable in low-and middle-income
countries
GSMA Mobile for Development