SpudnikLab

Bridge the digital divide... partner with SpudnikLab! Our team tackles digital inequality with innovative solutions. We're seeking partners to amplify our impact. Do you share our mission? Explore collaboration opportunities by connecting with us! https://lnkd.in/gKquegY4 #digitalinclusion #partnerships #SpudnikLab

Iran is banning certain communication devices after the deadly attacks in Lebanon. This is a significant setback for individuals who rely on frugal technology to bridge the digital divide. Many people in the wider region, especially those in rural areas or with limited financial resources, depend on affordable devices and services for essential communication and access to information. This ban could have far-reaching consequences, including: • Limited access to essential services: Users may struggle to connect with healthcare providers, government agencies, and educational institutions. • Isolation and reduced social connections: The ban could hinder communication with friends, family, and communities, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection. • Economic hardship: For those who rely on online platforms for work or business, the ban could disrupt their livelihoods and exacerbate economic inequalities. As the situation continues to evolve, it's crucial to advocate for policies that promote digital inclusion and ensure that everyone has access to the tools and resources while remaining safe. #Iran #FrugalTechnology #DigitalDivide #HumanRights https://lnkd.in/gww26maE

Singapore is making it easier for low-income seniors to get online with a new programme called Mobile Access for Seniors. The programme provides subsidized smartphones and mobile plans for just $20 and $5.10 per month, respectively — an initiative that will help bridge the digital divide and allow more seniors to connect with loved ones, access government services, and stay informed. Is your company doing anything to help seniors get online? We'd love to hear from you! https://lnkd.in/gFsPCNuS #Singapore #digitalinclusion #seniors #MobileAccessforSeniors

As schools around the world work to ban phone use during class hours, some parents and users are turning to "brick" phones — also sometimes called feature phones — with limited functionality for their digital detox. ‘Manufacturer HMD, which also makes phones for Nokia, says it's trying to tap into what it calls a "surge" of people wanting a smaller "digital impact" on their lives. But others say that would be better achieved by teaching people how to use their devices in a healthier and more controlled way.’ https://lnkd.in/gmvJ6kUZ Related:  “Lock up phones in schools, so that school time becomes protected time”: https://lnkd.in/gG73GvaJ “EE tells parents: don't give under-11s smartphones”: https://lnkd.in/d6E5DhTB “Eton set to give 'brick' phones to first years”: https://lnkd.in/gTzgPmny

We know microplastics as tiny pieces of plastic that are polluting our oceans and harming our environment and health. Now let’s look at how some frugal innovations and citizen science initiatives are helping to combat plastic pollution. At an individual level, it is clear that we can all do our part to reduce plastic pollution, like: * Carrying a reusable water bottle * Using reusable shopping bags * Avoiding single-use plastics What are some other ways that you think we can reduce plastic pollution? Share your thoughts with us. #frugalinnovation #citizenscience #plasticpollution #savetheoceans https://lnkd.in/g86GvjSr

AI is rapidly evolving, and conversations surrounding its innovation are almost always accompanied by the threats it poses. ⚠️ It’s crucial for professionals to stay informed and protected. Our latest blog article looks at the growing issue of AI-powered scams and crimes. Read on for tips on safeguarding yourself and your organisation: https://lnkd.in/gEPpSP87 #AI #cybersecurity #fraudprevention #datasafety #digitalrisk illustration by Ladyfingers Co.

The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) has been renamed as the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) on July 8, 2024. Yes, this change is more than just a change in initials. It reflects a significant focus towards driving Singapore’s national digital agenda. On top of the agenda are advancing AI, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. All these involve streamlining digital growth efforts across sectors, improving transparency and managing information policy. For us mere mortals, what we want is interwoven there too: ensuring access to digital resources, having government information and updates at our fingertips, and safeguarding our personal data. Let’s keep our eyes peeled for this new chapter in Singapore’s digital journey 🌐🌟 https://lnkd.in/gXF9kfFd

Even for a "technologically savvy" place like Singapore, there are those who quiety struggle to keep up with digital knowledge and usage. And because the tide cannot be turned, the outreach to bridge the digital divide needs to be pervasive. Which is why many companies and organisations have come on board Singapore's media authority's #DigitalForLife programme. SpudnikLab is glad we've done so early on. Please consider joining in this effort!

Khichdi, sinigang, pho, nasi padang... SpudnikLab researcher Jamie made a comparison of the cost of mobile data to the price of a typical meal in 10 Asian countries. The results were surprising, with India offering the most data for the price of a meal there. This also got us thinking. While affordability is important, it's not the only factor to consider when it comes to internet access. Secure infrastructure and government regulation are also crucial for a healthy digital ecosystem. What do you think about mobile data affordability in Southeast Asia—where you live and wherever you travel? https://lnkd.in/gWbdcn-V

Yes, Google loves Reddit now. Reddit traffic is skyrocketing, and some say it's because of Google's new “helpful content” update. Apparently, Google wants us to see stuff that actually helps, not just SEO writing (e.g. baking recipes that make you read someone’s life story). Reddit's upvote system, with all its expert communities and real user discussions, might be the new gold standard. Is user-generated content the future of the internet (again)? #Google #SEO #Reddit https://lnkd.in/g63gP-ai