Understanding the mobile disability gap
There has been limited research to understand access to mobile phones by persons with disabilities and the impact of mobile technology in their lives. This research aims to bridge the knowledge gap and to understand the potential of mobile phones as assistive technologies (ATs) for persons with disabilities in Kenya and Bangladesh.
This report presents an evaluation of the gap and barriers to mobile phone ownership experienced by persons with disabilities, as well as the usage patterns of four main mobile-enabled services (voice, SMS, mobile internet and mobile money) and the role of mobile phones to enable access to basic services, such as education, healthcare, transportation, employment and financial services. Finally, the report explores the characteristics of access and usability of mobile products and services along the customer journey.
In 2019 GSMA and GDI Hub produced a report on the mobile disability gap as part of the AT2030 programme, supporting the Innovation Cluster and the 'Spark Innovation' sub-programme.
This 2020 GSMA report has extended the knowledge and understanding of the mobile disability gap, as we look to further understand access to mobile phones by persons with disabilities and the impact of mobile technology in their lives.