A solution for a mobile computing device along with supporting infrastructure for the needs of illiterate users in rural areas

This paper proposes an integrated solution using a mobile computing device suitable for use by illiterate people in mainly rural areas. Modifications in supported applications including telephony, messaging and browser to enable them to be used text free are described. Images, animations and speech recognition are used instead of text, as well as WebRTC for real time communication. Infrastructure needed to support the use of such devices in rural areas is also considered, as well as a revenue sharing model to enable such infrastructure. We show it is possible to manufacture a phone customized to such users within a reasonable price and using existing technology. Our approach is to use technology to empower illiterate people at a level which they can presently relate to, rather than focus on technology to promote literacy.