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Session Description
One of the cornerstones of digital inclusion efforts in emerging economies is device affordability. Despite the continued uptake of mobile internet, a significant portion of the population remains unconnected, of which a lack of affordable devices is an important reason. Various interventions like device financing partnerships and local manufacturing have been initiated, yet affordability remains a major barrier. The session aims to explore the willingness and ability of consumers in emerging economies to invest in smart devices, bring together multiple stakeholders to discuss practical ways to reduce internet-enabled handset costs and ensure that the digital transformation is inclusive and does not aggravate existing inequalities.