While it may not be clear whether access to WhatsApp’s video calling service in the UAE will be temporary following a global update to the app that allowed residents Voice over Internet calls, what is more established is that access to digital technology boosts economic growth.
The consultancy firm Accenture noted in a recent report that a more efficient use of digital technologies can have a significant positive impact on a country’s economic growth.
By way of example it said that an optimisation of digital skills, technologies and accelerators could add 2.1 per cent, or the equivalent of US$421 billion to the US economy by 2020.
Observers including the World Bank have for years promoted greater access to digital technologies, especially in developing nations where it can often help to bridge gaps in poverty.
“For many people, today’s increase in access to digital technologies brings more choice and greater convenience,” the World Bank said in a recent report.
“Through inclusion, efficiency and innovation, access provides opportunities that were previously out of reach to the poor and disadvantaged.”
The Washington-based lender also noted that new technologies allow women easier participation in the labour market.
A global update to WhatsApp appeared to override a block on the free-to-use voice service to the delight of users on Thursday, although it was not clear how long the popular messaging service would be available.
A social media hashtag in Arabic trended for hours, after users tested the network on Thursday morning.
WhatsApp’s call functions are not licensed in the UAE, meaning they are effectively blocked. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority said the service should not be available and was unaware of any changes that would allow access.
Later in the day, users said the service turned problematic again. In some cases, users were able to dial out but could not connect to users on the other end.
WhatsApp’s call feature has been blocked in the UAE since it was launched last November, in line with other internet calling services from providers such as Viber, Snapchat and Facebook.
Regardless, the unblocking on Thursday reignited the debate around voice calls over such services.
Saeed Al Remeithi, the youngest member of the Federal National Council, has previously pushed for greater internet freedom, last year calling restrictions on services like Snapchat a source of embarrassment.
“Technology is advancing rapidly in the world today and we cannot miss out on its latest services and features,” he said on Thursday. “They are of utmost importance to any UAE resident.”
WhatsApp did not comment on the situation on Thursday, but a number of tech blogs and reports said a global software update took place on Wednesday.
mkassem@thenational.ae
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