The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society reports on a Digitunity report on home computer ownership…

One in seven households either have no computer at all or rely only on a smartphone for internet access. While smartphones provide convenient internet access and can be more portable and affordable than computers, they lack the functionality of large-screen computers. Access to large-screen computers (think laptops, desktops, and tablets) ensures continuous, on-demand access that a borrowed, shared, or public device doesn’t allow. A large-screen computer enables:

• Access to learning opportunities and earning educational and workforce credentials.
• Expanded options for employment, including remote work.
• Achieving upward economic mobility and long-term financial stability.
• Participating in community decisions and having their voices heard.
• Increased connection by being part of their community and reducing social isolation.
• Improved physical and mental health through access to healthcare and health information.
• Increased personal agency by finding and using information to make informed decisions about their lives.
• The article outlines the haves and the have-nots; there are no surprises.