The below blog post is written by Aria Systems an Offical Supporter of unconnected.org in 2023

Technology advancements and incredible innovations are increasing access to high-speed internet connectivity for so many people around the world who were previously disconnected. Today, even those residing in some of the most remote and isolated locations can connect and participate in an increasingly digitized world.

Satellite technologies and fiber networks are making it possible for people to access broadband-quality connectivity at home, in the air, or on a ship at sea.

Yet, despite progress, the United Nations estimates that almost half the global population still does not have internet access.

Some might think this problem, known as the digital divide, is primarily relegated to underdeveloped areas of the world. But even in some of the most advanced nations, large swaths of the population either have insufficient access or none at all. In the U.S. for example, 19 million Americans still do not have broadband connectivity. A lack of connectivity causes communities to experience a lower quality of life as they cannot leverage modern health services and educational resources, or pursue employment opportunities.

Greater digital equity benefits everyone as it has the potential to spur economic growth and improve relations between countries. The good news is that the global community of technology companies sees the digital divide as a problem that must be addressed.

Many companies have introduced a range of programs to increase and expand the availability of robust broadband internet services while also equipping those in need with the devices to access those services. Here are a handful of examples of how technology companies of all sizes are contributing to the effort to close the global digital divide.

1. unconnected.org Official Supporter Community

Discover a powerful community dedicated to bridging the digital divide: unconnected.org. As an official supporter, Aria Systems invites you to join this visionary initiative alongside tech and corporate partners who share the same goal. By becoming a member, your company will pledge support to connect students, women, refugees, and underserved communities to the internet.

unconnected.org and its esteemed partners are working tirelessly to bring connectivity to schools, libraries, and rural areas. By joining this community, your organization can contribute to this noble cause and make a significant impact. To become a part of this inspiring movement, read more HERE.

2. Amazon’s Satellite Network

Project Kuiper is an Amazon initiative to launch a Low Earth Orbit satellite network constellation that will ultimately deliver “reliable, affordable broadband service to unserved and underserved communities around the world,” reaching tens of millions of people. The constellations will include more than 3,000 satellites and connectivity will be achieved using small, low-cost antennas. Prototypes are expected to be launched later this year.

3. Digital Learning and Education program - Proctor and Gambles

The global pandemic caused many students to fall significantly behind in their education, with those in low-income communities disproportionately affected. Blue chip technology brands including Dell, Intel, and Microsoft have joined Proctor and Gambles’ “One Million Connected Devices Now” program whose goal is to distribute connected devices to students in underserved communities and enhance access to digital learning. The coalition of companies has committed $25 million since launching in 2021.

4. Donating Hardware and Lending Expertise - Lenovo

In the UK and Ireland, Lenovo is working to reverse digital inequity and build a “sustainable, digital society” by donating laptops and £1 for every laptop sold to UK digital poverty charities. The laptop manufacturer is also lending its expertise to programs intended to provide digital educational services in disadvantaged communities.

5. Innovative Approaches from Early-Stage Companies

The startup technology community has also been active in pursuing new strategies and approaches to closing the digital divide. BRCK, a Kenyan-based company, is developing a robust router that can search between networks to establish a more stable connection, all without the presence of an electrical connection. In Cambodia, AMK Microfinance Institution has developed a mobile application enabling previously unconnected rural farmers to digitally access financial services as well as market and farming information. And in India, a new social media platform developed by Lokal is connecting local merchants and consumers to conduct business and share information.

If the first step in solving a problem is recognizing that it exists, it’s evident from the actions and investments of these technology companies that they understand the scale of the digital equity challenge and are committed to addressing it.

Together with unconnected.org communications services providers (CSPs), and working alongside government and non-profit organizations, these technology companies are clearly dedicated to boosting digital inclusion and ensuring everyone has the connectivity and internet access needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world.