Greater Internet access correlates directly with improved health care, education and economic development. People living in rural areas, however, lag behind in online use, which limits their access to government services, banking and job opportunities.

Nowhere is this challenge clearer than in Africa. Most Africans live in rural areas that are tough to wire for Internet access.

Now, some phone companies are trying to introduce Internet-ready phones into African markets. Certain companies have started selling simple smartphones for only $20. Previously, the lowest price had been around $40, well out of reach for many people.

These devices are powered by software from the giant electronics company, KaiOS Technologies Limited. Most companies are trying to make phones ever more powerful and capable. But KaiOS went the other way. It made every effort to keep the essential capabilities of smartphones, but strip out costs and preserve battery life for people who likely have inadequate access to electricity.

The KaiOS devices offer an alternative to the more expensive models that remain out of reach of many Africans and contribute to the digital divide. The body of KaiOS phones is as basic as it gets. Instead of a touchscreen, they’re controlled with an old-school keypad. They’re designed for 3G networks because 4G coverage doesn’t reach two thirds of Africa’s customers. In total, KaiOS phones are made from about $15 worth of parts, while Apple’s top-of-the-line iPhone has $390 worth of stuff.

Q16: What are a number of phone companies trying to do in Africa?
Q17: How do KaiOS smartphones differ from smartphones of most other companies?
Q18: What are KaiOS smartphones equipped with?