But as more of the havenots get connected (probably on android/symbian and also through fiber optics) the issue and opportunity cost from lack of local content and infrastructure ( or ownership thereof) will will become more glaring.
The concern is that Africa will only have a narrow window to migrate their old media to the web before they are annihilated by the onslaught from the west.
]]>The ‘want’ is there (I was about to call it a ‘need’ and then changed my mind) but as other commenters have said the speed is not so great.
Over the past few days I’ve been teaching some of the rangers here how to use the internet. It was a big unknown at first, even the computer they had no idea, but as to the way the internet works they all keep saying how easy it is as it’s just like a mobile phone.
I think mobile phones will be an important step in much of Africa getting online.
]]>Another thought is the smartphone market within enterprises in Africa. Let’s assume that the iPhone is enterprise-ready, as it looks like it will be. If your employees are already using an expensive data-enabled phone, this will fit too.
At first glance there appears to be two viable markets: the haves, and enterprise.
On to bigger things though. The idea of an open platform that allows you to do all that can be done on the iPhone is intriguing. That’s where Android comes in. Once there is enough bandwidth that allows more median-income Africans to get data-enabled phones, the obvious choice will be the open/inexpensive option.
So, while the 3G iPhone very well might be seen as an expensive blip on the radar, it’s also forcing countries and carriers to speed up their plans to create a more robust data network. That’s what I really like about it right now.
]]>The 200 $ upfront cost ( over 1500 $ for a 2 year contact) can buy a decent rural based web/data server.
This is what Africa lacks- decent local content and hosting infrastructure.
]]>from some of the models I have seen, I am sure you could wipe whatever is running on it and load it with something else. I am assuming that is what Android is yeah?:)
My biggest gripe about internet access, whether over a phone or through a wire is that it is friggin slow in these parts.
Until these countries are connected to something providing massive bandwidth at a decent cost, it won’t matter how fancy your device is, access is still going to run at a snails pace.
]]>Something to think about anyway.
@Jikeb – I’m not sure I agree on that premise. You see, people in every country can afford an iPhone. Even though there are thousands of starving, malnourished, homeless people you still find people driving Mercedes, Range Rovers and Pajeros. This is no different, there is always a group that can afford it and will buy it. Capitalism is just doing what it does best here.
]]>do the chinese knock off Iphones count? I don’t think they are 3G but they are pretty cool.
I am still in Juba and keep coming across various models of “Bluetooth” phones with a big Apple logo slapped on the back. These things sport a TV, radio, video/still camera (very poor quality), USB connection, Bluetooth(thats why it is labled bluetooth on the front, but no other name on the phone), standard memory slots(please excuse me, i can’t remember the name, but you can by the card just about anywhere) and a garble of other accessories. Some even come with Dual sim slots.
I saw one “Iphone” that was almost exactly like the original. Expect slightly bulkier and the worst user interface I have ever seen. I thought was the real thing until I started playing with it.
Anyhow, I want to make more comments concerning your post, but I have run out of time… maybe later.
P.S. I wish I was going to be in Nairobi 21st.. grrr…
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