Listening
Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- connectivity / ˌkɒn ɛkˈtɪv ɪ ti / (n.) – the ability of systems, computers, or other devices to communicate and share information
Example:Some countries still have poor internet connectivity.
- productivity / ˌproʊ dəkˈtɪv ə t̬i / (n.) – the speed at which someone or something does useful work in relation to the time, work, and resources used
Example:The factory’s productivity increased after changing the old machines to new ones.
- latency / ˈleɪt n si / (n.) – the amount of time it takes for a computer system, network, or device to respond to a request
Example:There is a better online gaming experience when there is low latency.
- hamper / ˈhæm pər / (v.) – to slow something down or make something more difficult
Example:Some of the strict government policies are hampering the development of the AI industry.
- a level playing field / ə ˈlɛv əl ˈpleɪ ɪŋ fild / (idiom) – a situation where everyone has the same opportunities and is treated fairly, particularly in business or competition
Example:Some workers feel there isn’t a level playing field when it comes to getting better job opportunities.
Article
Read the text below.
Mobile technology is predicted to generate $11 trillion for the global economy by 2030, according to a new report. The analysis was released by the organizers of the Mobile World Congress (MWC), the tech show which opened in Barcelona on March 3.
It’s the ‘who’s who’ of the mobile technology industry.
MWC is billed as the biggest connectivity event in the world. It attracts everything from multinational tech giants to innovative new start-ups.
This is a place to do business—and business is growing.
Mobile technologies and their services accounted for 5.8% of global GDP last year, according to a new report by the GSMA, which organizes MWC. It predicts that the figure will rise as more people get connected, 5G rolls out and AI increases efficiency and productivity.
“It’s huge. We’re talking $6.5 trillion. And that will grow to roughly $11 trillion by 2030. So, the impact of mobile technology is enormous, and it’s enabling so many other industries to make more money and to become more efficient and serve their customers in a better way,” says Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA.
Around 4.7 billion people were using mobile internet by the end of 2024.
And 5G connections reached over 2 billion, with the cellular technology expected to overtake 4G usage by 2028. 5G promises to increase speed, reduce latency and allow more flexibility for wireless services.
But as the world becomes ever more connected, tech leaders warn that onerous regulations, such as data storage rules in Europe, are hampering the industry’s potential.
“We need to have a level playing field, and I’ve been in this industry for almost 40 years, and we have spoken about this level playing field for at least the last 20 years. It is uneven. And we are fine with competing with other technologies and other industries, but it has to be on the same rules. Today, it is not on the same rules. That needs to change desperately, and that is predominantly a world phenomenon,” says Granryd.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Mobile technology is expected to add $11 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Do you think mobile technology is important for a country’s economy? Why or why not? Can a country be successful without strong mobile technology? Why or why not? How has mobile technology changed the way businesses operate in your country in recent years? Discuss.
- In your country, what industries benefit the most from mobile technology? Are there any businesses that struggle because of it? What do you think governments should do to help businesses that struggle because they can’t keep up with the latest mobile technology? Discuss.
Discussion B
- Mats Granryd said that the playing field in the tech industry is uneven. What do you think creates the uneven playing field (ex. money, laws)? Do you think it is possible to create a fair business environment in different business industries worldwide? Why or why not? Discuss.
- How do you think a level playing field would affect the global economy? Do you think a level playing field in business is something that is needed right now? Why or why not? Discuss.
