Global development of telecommunications in 2012

This is the third report in the World Bank Group’s series on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Development, originally launched in 2006. This edition focuses on mobile applications and their use in promoting development, especially in agriculture, health, financial services, and government. Cross-cutting chapters present an overview of emerging trends in mobile applications, the ways they are affecting employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and the policy challenges presented by the ongoing shift from narrowband to broadband mobile networks.