Google working around low internet connectivity in Africa

WSJ story.  Looking at the internet-penetration rates, not so good.  But already, in terms of cellphones, we're talking 30-40% penetration everywhere in Africa save the deep interior.

So Google apparently not waiting on the former to rise and instead targets the latter media device.  Mobiles are a party of everyday life in Africa, but the Internet is not (4% average).  Unfortunately, mobile costs are relatively high in Africa, and internet costs are even worse.

Google clearly takes the path of least resistance, and its aims are noble enough:  increase Internet usage by offering mobile text-based services as the lure.

An industry player is quoted as saying, "There is a tremendous pent-up demand for connectivity and access." This is why tech companies the world over are targeting Africa and its emerging middle class now--again, taking the shortest route and keeping it as practical as possible.  Five years ago, detailed online maps of African cities were nonexistent.  Now Google offers their usual stuff for 51 African countries (out of 55).

I will confess to being excited to use my new Motorola/Google Android phone with Google maps.