The Demise of 2G: A Balancing Act Between Progress and Inclusion
As countries globally phase out 2G networks to free up spectrum for 4G and 5G, millions reliant on basic feature phones face a digital divide. Vietnam successfully navigated this transition by providing free 4G feature phones to low-income users, offering a model for others. However, nations like South Africa delayed shutdowns due to concerns about digital exclusion and disruption to existing devices. India grapples with complex social factors, including gender disparities and economic constraints, making the 2G phase-out more challenging. Companies like CloudMosa are attempting to bridge the gap with cloud-powered 4G feature phones. Ultimately, the sunset of 2G is not just a technological shift, but a test of societal equity and inclusivity.