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One thing I've found interesting that I'd love to see explored in depth, is the lack of interplay between the tech used in US/Western Europe (traditional tech h
by JamesCRR 14y ago
One thing I've found interesting that I'd love to see explored in depth, is the lack of interplay between the tech used in US/Western Europe (traditional tech hubs) and Africa. It seems the apps that are important to one market are not the same that matter in another - even in similar sectors (e.g. Square vs MPesa) perhaps this is because one set of apps targets smartphones and fast internet connections (not to mention processors) while another is targeted at feature phones. As smartphones reach higher levels of adoption I'd love to see African built apps taking on Western markets.
- mmsimanga 14y agoInteresting question. As a developer working in Africa you read about the latest technologies on HN. Then you have the added task of working out whether the technology you just read about will work in Africa. This is easier said than done but nonetheless very interesting. EDIT: grammar
- Scaevolus 14y agoI expect language/cultural barriers are a larger factor. With a local alternative, why would you use an app made by someone that doesn't speak your language or understand your needs?
- danboarder 14y agoIn large part it has to do with the level of tech available. Bandwidth in many parts of Africa is very slow, so SMS is preferred as a workable solution for data. M-pesa uses SMS on any low cost feature phone, while Square requires a more expensive smartphone with apps and data plans. People use what is practical in their context.