Define Information Communication Technology

A smart phone

Information Communication Technology (ICT) is a term that describes types of technology that are used specifically for communications. It is like Information Technology, but ICT focuses more on technologies that deal with communication, like cell phones, the Internet and wireless networks, among other things.

Recent Developments

The field of Information Communication Technology has taken off in the last decade. Developed countries have a higher use of ICT, but developing countries have made significant increases in use over the last five years.

ICT Usage

At the end of 2008, the world had more than 4 billion mobile phone users, and close to one-fourth of the world's population had access to the Internet.

Regulations

Americans enjoys relative freedom in the use of ICT, but other governments are struggling to regulate its use. Most recently, governments in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia decided to block features on BlackBerry smart phones, which allow citizens to access the Internet without regulation. Starting Oct. 11, 2010, users will not be able to access email or the Internet through their BlackBerrys.

References

• Tech Terms: ICT (Information and Communication Technologies)
• International Telecommunication Union: The ICT Index
• The Washington Post: United Arab Emirates to Block Key Features on BlackBerrys

Resources

• ICT Literacy: Homepage