An enthusiast who had been struggling to find information because he didn’t have a smartphone now has a solution thanks to an Artificial Intelligence-powered mobile phone that works offline. The service, launched in Nigeria last month by Canada-based Viamo, makes it possible for anyone, even in remote areas without internet access, to utilize AI technology. Viamo uses a traditional handset to connect to local mobile phone networks and send commands or requests for information through SMS or voice calls. It works like other AI chatbots and can be activated by voice, making it accessible even to those who can’t read.
Additionally, it is more affordable than other alternatives. Olutubosun, a user of the technology, said, “For people who are not financially stable, they still have this opportunity to use even as little as 10 naira to ask lots of questions that will benefit them. I am so happy.” Viamo aims to reach the world’s poorest and most remote communities and is being expanded to other countries such as Pakistan, India, and Tanzania, following its initial launch in Zambia.
Development agencies in the United States and the United Kingdom support Viamo. UNICEF has also collaborated with Viamo to provide information on HIV, tropical diseases, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene.
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