Offline internet combines innovative hardware and software solutions, localized content, digital skills, and supportive policies that enable meaningful access to a wide array of digital content without the need for continuous internet connectivity.
Advancing offline-first solutions for digitally underserved communities in over 90 countries, the Offline Internet Consortium (OLI) works to raise awareness, support development of technologies and content, and connect diverse practitioners around the world.
“Information literacy is the most empowering skillset an individual can have in the Information Age.”
~ Laura Hosman, Co-Founder and Director of SolarSPELL
Key findings from our 2024 report
- Offline internet sets a new standard for meaningful connectivity—ensuring equitable access to the technologies, skills, and content needed for global digital inclusion.
- Information literacy and digital literacy are vital skills that people develop over time—simply providing internet access is insufficient.
- We need to shift focus from the technology itself to the specific problems that the technology is intended to solve.
“I have a device and a connection, but I don’t have the skills to use them.”
Meaningful digital skills refer to the ability of an individual to proficiently use and engage with digital technologies without needing specialized knowledge.
“Data packages and smart devices are too expensive.”
Meaningful hardware means unrestricted access to up-to-date devices and a reliable, high-speed internet connection that is affordable and doesn’t impose a financial burden.
“We have frequent power cuts. I need software that can be used offline.”
Meaningful software implies unrestricted access to a vast array of software options that are localized, accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to individual needs, preferences, and contexts.
“I have a connection, but I’m concerned about privacy.”
Meaningful supportive policies include comprehensive and well-coordinated strategies at global, national, and local levels that provide the foundation for universal access to meaningful connectivity, including well-funded programs, policies that address barriers to access, and broad societal recognition of the importance of digital inclusion.
“There isn’t enough content in the language I speak for the internet to be useful to me.”
Meaningful content embodies unrestricted access to digital content that is fully localized, relevant, evidence-based, and curated to the needs of the user base.
Our Solutions
Hardware & Software
Access to digital content without internet connectivity
Curated Content
Quality, needs-based content in the user's native language
Literacy
Digital and information literacy with internet-ready skills
In the News
“Technology is on a rapid uptick, but there is still the problem of affordability.”
Mike Dawson, CEO of Ustad Mobile