Providing a much different attraction to the traveling circus, the Google Internet Bus is making the rounds of rural India to introduce the public to the magic that is the World Wide Web. As a collaboration with one government internet service provider known as BSNL, the multinational corporation has several intentions associated with its Asian tour, benefitting both itself and its beneficiaries.
Eleven towns over 43,000 kilometers of roads have been visited so far by this internet cafe on wheels, letting people board the parked shuttle and gain access to the virtual world free of charge. For many, this may be exciting and eye-opening, and for those captivated by their experience in the Google Internet Bus, the state-owned ISP gains sales for online setups and contracts.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Rural Internet Connectivity
- Opportunities for implementing innovative means of connecting rural areas to the internet to increase access and sales opportunities for ISPs.
- Mobile Technology Providers
- Opportunities for mobile network providers to tap into rural markets by providing internet access and technology infrastructure through mobile networks or buses.
- Digital Education & Literacy
- Opportunities for developing digital education programs to provide individuals in rural areas with the skills and knowledge needed to make use of the internet and technology.
Where This Applies
- Internet Service Providers
- Opportunities for ISPs to increase sales and market share by expanding coverage to rural areas and using innovative means like the Google Internet Bus to onboard new customers.
- Mobile Network Providers
- Opportunities for mobile network providers to expand their customer base by investing in the infrastructure required to offer internet services to rural areas, where the demand for internet is growing.
- Education & Training Providers
- Opportunities for organizations and institutions specializing in education to take advantage of the need for digital literacy training and to help underserved populations access the internet.
