The digital divide is a huge problem for most people outside of North America and in more rural areas. Third world countries and places in the united states with lower socioeconomic status struggle to keep up with today’s ever-expanding technology. We create and expand on technology at such an exponential rate to the point where if you aren’t in the economic situation to keep up, you get left behind. My idea for closing the digital divide would focus on providing a basic smart phone or laptop to people in need. Similar to food banks that offer individuals and families under the poverty level.

Internet access is growing the fastest in metropolitan cities. We already have good access to universal Wi-Fi in cities but it could be better. This I think would benefit my idea by allowing someone who received a free subsidized laptop to have continuous internet access regardless of the living situation. This could be further expanded by providing free Wi-Fi hotspots in local areas like city parks and bus stops.

I think there aren’t many tangible items needed to work devices with the internet today especially laptops and mobile devices. I would like to set up each device with accessible use features and little to no maintenance upkeep. This will allow the users to feel confident and secure in their devices and not be overwhelmed. Setting up workshops alongside the stands that will give out laptops will allow people to gain knowledge of the internet and how to navigate on the devices. If the funds warranted I think a good feature would be to implement eye-tracking technology or voice to movement technology into the computers. This will bridge the gap between people with disabilities and electronic devices.