The possession of mobile phones used to be a consequence of economic growth but it is now considered as one of its major causes specifically for developing countries. Studies confirm that an increase on mobile phone penetration contributed greatly to economic growth due to the huge improvement in communications which is vital for increase in productivity. A large part of Africa experienced industrial revolution without expensive infrastructure because it was able to leapfrog into the information age with mobile phones.

Mobiles are likewise taking over the function of PCs for business people in the developed world. From a commodity that was previously owned only by rich people, mobile phones have proved their worth in spurring further development.