Who would have predicted that smartphones would become such a prevalent part of life when Apple debuted the iPhone back in 2007? While people recognised it as a useful device, not everyone was convinced it would be the hit that it is today. In fact, there were plenty of people who thought that the iPhone would fail.
Evidently, they were wrong. The iPhone changed everything and today, the majority of the world’s population owns a smartphone. It’s helped millions of people in various ways but perhaps the most noticeable impact has been on those living in rural areas.
Online shopping
Smartphones make it easier for everyone to access the products they need but they’re particularly beneficial for those living far from a city centre. Historically, residents in rural areas weren’t in a convenient position to acquire certain products and if they needed something, they had to travel into the city.
Now, people in all areas can browse and purchase products from the comfort of their own home and have them delivered straight to their door.
Entertainment options
Smartphones have been a great equaliser in terms of how people access entertainment. Thanks to these handy devices, people no longer need to live in the thick of the action to enjoy the latest offerings. More recently, many big-budget movies have been available online at the same time as their theatrical release, ensuring people who live far from a cinema no longer miss out.
It’s not just entertainment in the form of movies that has become more accessible. People can also play the latest games with their devices. Whether they elect to play online slots or download the most popular mobile games, rural residents have more options than ever before.
Staying connected
Smartphones have made it easier than ever for people to stay in touch in a meaningful way. Video calling has been revolutionary in the way we communicate with long distance friends, partners, and family members, allowing us to feel as though they are in the same room. Alongside this, a variety of instant messaging options is helping to bridge the gap that can occur when living in a more rural area.
Career opportunities
The invention of the smartphone has also led to new opportunities. Remote jobs have become much more accessible and rural residents, or those who want to move to a more rural area, now have the same opportunities as those who don’t.
Smaller communities have also been given more opportunity to promote their destination. They can utilise the power of social media to attract audiences that previously would never have heard of them.
From online shopping and entertainment, to career opportunities and stronger connections, smartphones have revolutionised the lives of those in rural areas.
