Technology

The Digital Divide: AI’s Potential to Create Haves and Have-Nots

Published

3 years ago

November 20, 2023

Fred Wilson

How AI Can Create or Reduce Digital Inequalities

Introduction

Hi, I am Fred, a blog writer who is interested in technology and its effects on society. I have been following the progress of AI for the past few years, and I am amazed by its ability to change various aspects of our lives, from health and education to entertainment and business. However, I am also aware of the dangers and difficulties that AI poses, especially for those who are already left behind or disadvantaged by the existing digital gap. In this article, I will examine how AI can create new forms of digital inequalities, or worsen the existing ones, depending on how it is created, used, and distributed. I will also suggest some ways to close the digital gap in the age of AI.

What is the digital gap and why does it matter?

The digital gap is the difference between those who have access to and can use digital tools, such as computers, smartphones, and the internet, and those who do not. The digital gap can be measured by various indicators, such as availability, affordability, quality, skills, usage, and outcomes of digital tools. The digital gap matters because it affects the opportunities and outcomes of individuals and groups in various domains, such as education, work, health, civic engagement, and social inclusion. The digital gap can also reflect and reinforce other forms of inequalities, such as income, education, gender, age, race, ethnicity, and geography.

How does AI affect the digital gap?

AI is the field of computer science that aims to create machines or systems that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, decision making, and problem solving. AI has been improving rapidly in recent years, thanks to the availability of large amounts of data, powerful computing resources, and sophisticated algorithms. AI has been applied to various fields and sectors, such as health, education, finance, agriculture, transportation, and entertainment, creating new products, services, and solutions that can improve efficiency, quality, and convenience. However, AI can also have negative impacts, such as displacing workers, invading privacy, spreading misinformation, and discriminating against certain groups. AI can also affect the digital gap in different ways, depending on how it is created, used, and distributed. Here are some examples of how AI can increase or decrease the digital gap:

AI can increase the digital gap by creating a new AI gap, where some countries, regions, organizations, or individuals have more access to and control over AI tools and applications than others. For example, a recent study found that the majority of AI patents and publications are concentrated in a few countries, mainly the US, China, Japan, and Europe . This means that these countries have more influence and power over the direction and impact of AI, while others may be left behind or excluded. Similarly, within countries, some groups or individuals may have more access to and benefit from AI than others, depending on their socioeconomic status, education level, digital skills, and personal preferences. For example, a survey found that young adults aged 16 to 24 in different countries have varying levels of awareness and usage of AI and human rights. This means that some young people may be more ready and able to use AI for their own benefit and for social good, while others may be more exposed and harmed by AI.
AI can decrease the digital gap by providing new opportunities and solutions for those who are digitally excluded or underserved. For example, AI can help close the gap in education by offering personalized learning, adaptive assessment, and intelligent tutoring systems that can cater to the needs and preferences of different learners, especially those who face barriers or challenges in accessing or benefiting from traditional education systems. For example, UNESCO and UNITAR launched a microlearning course for AI and human rights, for young adults aged 16 to 24 in 2021, which was translated into five languages and addressed essential topics such as freedom of expression, privacy, and equality. Similarly, AI can help close the gap in health care by providing diagnosis, treatment, and prevention services that can reach and serve remote or underserved populations, especially those who lack access to or quality of health care facilities or professionals. For example, AI can help detect diseases, such as tuberculosis, malaria, and diabetic retinopathy, using image analysis and deep learning.

How can we close the digital gap in the age of AI?

Closing the digital gap in the age of AI is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires the collaboration and coordination of various stakeholders, such as governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and media. Here are some suggestions for closing the digital gap in the age of AI:

Promote universal and affordable access to digital and AI tools and applications. This can be done by investing in and expanding the digital and AI infrastructure, such as broadband networks, cloud computing, and data centers, especially in rural and remote areas. It can also be done by reducing the cost and increasing the availability of digital and AI devices, such as computers, smartphones, and sensors, especially for low-income and marginalized groups. Moreover, it can be done by ensuring the interoperability and compatibility of digital and AI systems and platforms, such as operating systems, browsers, and applications, especially for users with different languages, cultures, and abilities.
Enhance the digital and AI skills and literacy of the population. This can be done by integrating digital and AI education and training into the formal and informal education systems, from early childhood to lifelong learning. It can also be done by providing digital and AI learning opportunities and resources, such as online courses, MOOCs, and microlearning, especially for those who are out of school or work. Moreover, it can be done by raising the awareness and understanding of the benefits and risks of digital and AI among the public, especially for those who are skeptical or reluctant to use digital and AI.
Ensure the ethical and responsible creation and use of digital and AI. This can be done by establishing and enforcing the legal and regulatory frameworks and standards for digital and AI, such as data protection, privacy, security, transparency, accountability, and human rights. It can also be done by fostering the participation and inclusion of diverse and representative voices and perspectives in the design and governance of digital and AI, such as users, consumers, workers, and communities. Moreover, it can be done by promoting the innovation and creativity of digital and AI for social and environmental good, such as addressing the global challenges of poverty, inequality, health, education, and climate change.

Summary

In this article, I have examined how AI can influence the digital gap, the difference between those who can use digital tools effectively and those who cannot. I have discussed how AI can create new forms of digital inequalities, or worsen the existing ones, depending on how it is created, used, and distributed. I have also suggested some ways to close the digital gap in the age of AI, by promoting universal and affordable access, enhancing the digital and AI skills and literacy, and ensuring the ethical and responsible creation and use of digital and AI. I hope that this article has provided you with some valuable insights and information on this important and timely topic. Thank you for reading and please feel free to share your thoughts and comments below.

Image by: https://blog.daisie.com/boosting-cognitive-function-practical-ways-to-manage-stress/

Table: The Digital Gap and AI

Aspect	Definition	Example
Access	The availability and affordability of digital and AI tools and applications	Broadband networks, cloud computing, data centers, computers, smartphones, sensors, AI systems and platforms
Skills	The ability and competence to use digital and AI tools and applications effectively and efficiently	Digital and AI education and training, online courses, MOOCs, microlearning, digital and AI literacy and awareness
Usage	The frequency and intensity of using digital and AI tools and applications for various purposes and domains	Health care, education, finance, agriculture, transportation, entertainment, civic engagement, social inclusion
Outcomes	The benefits and risks of using digital and AI tools and applications for individuals and groups	Efficiency, quality, convenience, innovation, creativity, empowerment, employment, income, health, education, privacy, security, transparency, accountability, human rights

Author

Fred Wilson

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Technology

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E? 10 Fixes That Actually Work

Published

2 weeks ago

October 7, 2026

adamsmithh

Seeing Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E can be frustrating, especially when the printer suddenly stops working during an important print job. This error may appear on the printer display or computer and can be associated with temporary system glitches, communication problems, paper-feed issues, internal obstructions, firmware problems, or hardware-related faults.

Before assuming that the printer needs repair, try some basic troubleshooting. In many cases, restarting the printer, checking for obstructions, reconnecting cables, or updating the printer software can restore normal operation.

Below are 10 practical ways to troubleshoot Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E.

1. Restart the Epson Printer

Start with a complete restart. Temporary errors in the printer’s internal system can sometimes trigger an error code.

Turn off the printer and disconnect its power cable from the electrical outlet. If the printer is connected to a computer through USB, disconnect that cable as well.

Wait approximately two to five minutes. Reconnect the power cable directly to a wall outlet, switch the printer back on, and check whether the 0x9E error returns.

If the printer starts normally, try printing a test page.

2. Perform a Power Reset

If a normal restart doesn’t work, try a power reset.

Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord. With the printer disconnected from power, press and hold the power button for approximately 20 seconds. Release the button and leave the printer disconnected for another few minutes.

Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer on.

A power reset can clear temporary electrical or internal control errors that may interfere with normal printer operation.

3. Check for Jammed Paper

A small piece of paper inside the printer can sometimes cause unexpected operational errors.

Turn the printer off before inspecting it. Check the input tray, output area, rear access area, and other accessible paper paths. Remove any visible jammed or torn paper carefully.

Avoid pulling paper aggressively because small pieces may tear off and remain inside the machine.

Once the paper path is clear, reload the paper correctly and restart the printer.

4. Look for Foreign Objects

Paper isn’t the only thing that can interfere with the printer’s internal mechanisms. Small objects such as labels, paper clips, dust buildup, or scraps of paper may obstruct moving components.

With the printer powered off and unplugged, inspect accessible areas using adequate lighting.

Do not force or disassemble internal components. If you notice an object that cannot be safely reached, professional servicing may be a better option.

5. Check the Ink Cartridges

Incorrectly installed or poorly seated cartridges may cause some printers to behave unexpectedly.

Open the cartridge access area according to your printer model’s normal procedure. Check whether each cartridge is properly installed.

If necessary, remove and reinstall the cartridges carefully. Make sure they click or sit securely in their designated positions.

Restart the printer afterward and see whether Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E disappears.

6. Inspect the Printer Connections

Communication problems between the printer and computer can sometimes complicate troubleshooting.

For a USB printer, disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. Try another USB port if one is available. Avoid using an unpowered USB hub while diagnosing the problem.

For a wireless printer, verify that the printer and computer are connected to the intended network. Restarting the router may also help if other devices are experiencing connectivity problems.

After restoring the connection, send a simple test document to the printer.

7. Clear the Print Queue

A corrupted or stuck print job can prevent normal printing even after the printer itself has recovered.

Open the printer queue on your computer and cancel pending documents. Restart both the printer and computer before attempting another print job.

If the printer works normally afterward, the problem may have been related to the previous print job rather than a persistent hardware fault.

8. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible printer software can cause communication and printing problems.

Check which Epson printer model you own and make sure the correct driver is installed for your operating system. If the driver appears damaged or the problem started after a software change, uninstalling and reinstalling the appropriate printer software may help.

Restart the computer after installation and reconnect the printer.

Then print a test page to determine whether the error has been resolved.

9. Check for Firmware Updates

Firmware controls many of the printer’s internal functions. In some circumstances, updating the firmware can resolve known operational problems.

Check whether an appropriate firmware update is available for your exact printer model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and keep the printer connected to a reliable power source throughout the update.

Never interrupt a firmware installation by switching off or unplugging the printer.

After the update is complete, restart the printer and check its status.

10. Consider an Internal Hardware Problem

If Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E remains after basic troubleshooting, an internal mechanical or electronic fault may be involved.

Possible trouble areas can include sensors, carriage mechanisms, paper-feed components, internal electronics, or other model-specific parts. The exact meaning of an error can vary by printer model, so avoid replacing components based solely on a generic error-code description.

At this point, check the documentation for your exact Epson model or have the printer professionally inspected.

What If Epson Error Code 0x9E Keeps Returning?

An error that disappears temporarily but repeatedly returns deserves additional attention. Note when the problem occurs. For example, determine whether it appears immediately after startup, while feeding paper, when beginning a print job, or after the printer has operated for several minutes.

This information can help distinguish between software, connectivity, paper-feed, and internal hardware problems.

You should also avoid repeatedly forcing the printer to operate if you hear grinding, clicking, or other unusual mechanical noises.

Final Thoughts

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E does not always mean that the printer has permanently failed. Begin with simple troubleshooting: restart the printer, perform a power reset, inspect the paper path, check the cartridges, verify connections, and clear pending print jobs.

You can then check the printer driver and firmware if the problem continues. If the Epson Error Code 0x9E persists after these steps—particularly when accompanied by unusual noises or mechanical problems—the printer may require model-specific diagnosis or professional servicing.

Following the troubleshooting steps in order can help you identify the cause without making unnecessary changes to the printer.

Author

adamsmithh

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Business

Stratbeans Custom eLearning Development for Organisations

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

Sumit

Some organisations may need a dedicated LMS for employee onboarding and compliance training. Others may require advanced assessments, certifications, analytics, integrations and structured learning paths. For organisations with highly specific requirements, a standard off-the-shelf platform may not provide the flexibility they need.

This is where Stratbeans brings its expertise in custom eLearning development and corporate learning technology.

Rather than asking organisations to adapt their training processes to a fixed platform, Stratbeans focuses on understanding the organisation’s learning requirements first and developing or configuring solutions around them.

A Corporate Dedicated LMS Built Around Organisational Needs

Every organisation approaches learning differently.

A growing company may need a straightforward platform to manage employee training, courses and assessments. A large enterprise may need a more comprehensive learning ecosystem supporting multiple departments, user groups, certifications, compliance programmes, reporting and integrations.

There can also be organisations with unique workflows that require capabilities beyond a conventional LMS.

A corporate dedicated LMS can help address these requirements by creating a learning environment that is aligned with the organisation rather than relying entirely on a standardised approach.

Stratbeans works with organisations to understand these requirements and provide learning solutions that can evolve as their workforce and business needs change.

Bytecasting LMS – A Structured Approach to Corporate Learning

For organisations looking for a practical and structured learning environment, Bytecasting LMS provides capabilities for managing digital learning across an organisation.

The platform can support areas such as course management, learner administration, assessments and reporting, giving organisations a centralised environment for managing employee learning.

For companies beginning their digital learning journey or looking to bring existing training programmes onto a dedicated platform, Bytecasting LMS provides a foundation for structured corporate learning.

Bytecasting Evolve – For Growing Learning Requirements

As organisations expand, their learning requirements often become more complex.

Bytecasting Evolve is designed for organisations that need a broader learning environment capable of supporting evolving training requirements. It can help organisations manage learning content, users, assessments, reporting and learner experiences within a more comprehensive framework.

The focus is not only on delivering courses but on creating a learning ecosystem that can grow alongside an organisation’s workforce and business requirements.

ATUM LMS – A More Customised Learning Environment

Not every organisation can work effectively with a conventional LMS structure.

ATUM LMS is designed for organisations looking for greater flexibility and a more tailored approach to their learning environment. Depending on organisational requirements, the platform can be adapted to support specific learning and operational needs.

This approach can be particularly relevant for businesses that have established processes, specialised training structures or requirements that do not fit neatly into a standard LMS model.

Custom eLearning Development for Specific Business Requirements

An LMS is only one part of a corporate learning ecosystem. Organisations may also require customised learning modules, assessments, integrations, workflows, dashboards and other digital learning components.

Through its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans works with organisations to create learning solutions around their specific requirements.

This approach can include understanding existing learning processes, identifying technology gaps and developing digital learning experiences that align with organisational objectives.

The result is a more flexible approach to corporate learning, where technology can support the way an organisation actually operates.

One Organisation, One Learning Need

There is no universal approach to corporate learning.

A startup, a manufacturing company, a large enterprise and a professional services organisation may all have very different training requirements. Even organisations within the same industry can have different workforce structures, compliance needs, learning processes and technology environments.

That is why the focus of a dedicated corporate LMS platform should not simply be on the number of features available. It should also be on how effectively those features address the organisation’s actual learning requirements.

With Bytecasting LMS, Bytecasting Evolve and ATUM LMS, along with its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans offers organisations different ways to build and manage digital learning based on their specific requirements.

Whether an organisation is beginning its digital learning journey, expanding an existing employee training program or developing a more customised learning ecosystem, Stratbeans’ approach remains centred on the same principle: build the learning solution around the organisation, rather than forcing the organisation to fit the platform.

Final Thoughts

The eLearning content development landscape in India offers plenty of options, from large learning providers to specialised custom development companies.

The right choice ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If you’re looking for a partner that combines custom eLearning content development with corporate learning and LMS capabilities, Stratbeans is one company worth exploring.

Because good eLearning isn’t simply about creating an online course. It’s about creating a learning experience that people understand, remember and can actually use at work.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple: create learning that is useful, engaging and built around the people who will actually use it.

Author

Sumit

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Business

What is a smart water management system and how does it work?

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

bestedgetech

Water is one of the most important resources for homes, businesses, industries, and cities. However, managing water efficiently can be difficult when systems depend on manual readings and traditional monitoring methods. Water leaks, high consumption, equipment problems, and unexpected usage can increase costs and lead to water waste.

A smart water management system uses connected devices, sensors, software, and data analytics to monitor and manage water usage more efficiently. With technologies such as IoT device management and IoT gateways, organizations can collect real-time water data and use it to make better decisions.

What Is a Smart Water Management System?

A smart water management system is a technology-based solution that helps monitor, control, and optimize water usage.

It can collect information such as:

Water consumption
Flow rate
Pressure levels
Tank levels
Leakage conditions
Water quality parameters
Equipment performance
Usage patterns

Instead of depending only on manual meter readings, smart systems can automatically collect and transmit data. This makes it easier to understand how water is being used and identify problems quickly.

Smart water management can be used in residential buildings, commercial properties, factories, farms, hospitals, hotels, municipalities, and other facilities.

How Does a Smart Water Management System Work?

A smart water management system generally works through a combination of sensors, meters, IoT devices, IoT gateways, communication networks, and cloud or monitoring platforms.

The process can be divided into several simple steps.

1. Water Data Is Collected

Smart meters and sensors are installed at important points in the water network. These devices measure different parameters depending on the requirements of the facility.

For example, a smart water meter can measure the amount of water being consumed. Flow sensors can monitor the movement of water through pipes, while pressure sensors can identify unusual pressure changes.

The collected information provides a clear view of water usage.

2. IoT Devices Send the Data

The sensors and smart meters generate data at regular intervals. IoT devices help collect this information automatically.

This reduces the need for workers to visit every location and record readings manually.

For example, a building can use connected water meters to record the consumption of different floors or units. The data can then be sent to a central monitoring system.

3. IoT Gateway Connects Devices

An IoT gateway plays an important role in connecting field devices with the central platform.

Water sensors and meters may use different communication technologies and protocols. The IoT gateway can collect information from these devices, process it, and send the required data to a cloud or server platform.

The gateway can also help with:

Device communication
Data processing
Protocol conversion
Local data storage
Security
Remote monitoring

This makes the IoT gateway an important part of a connected water management architecture.

4. Data Is Transmitted to a Platform

After the data is collected and processed, it can be transmitted through available communication networks.

Depending on the application, systems may use technologies such as cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, LoRaWAN, or other communication methods.

The information can then reach a centralized software platform where users can view and analyze water data.

5. Data Is Analyzed

Collecting water data is only one part of smart water management. The data must also be analyzed to identify useful information.

A monitoring platform can help users understand:

Where water is being consumed
When consumption is highest
Whether usage is increasing
Where unusual flow is occurring
Whether a possible leak exists
How different locations compare
Whether equipment is operating normally

Historical data can also help organizations identify long-term consumption patterns.

Role of IoT Device Management

Managing a large number of connected water devices can become difficult without proper tools. This is where IoT device management becomes important.

IoT device management allows organizations to monitor and manage connected meters, sensors, gateways, and other devices from a central system.

Important functions can include:

Device Monitoring

Organizations can check whether devices are online, offline, or experiencing communication problems.

Remote Configuration

Some connected devices can be configured remotely. This can reduce the need for physical visits.

Software and Firmware Updates

Connected devices may require firmware updates to improve performance, security, or functionality. Centralized management can make these updates easier to handle.

Device Security

IoT device management can support authentication, access control, and other security practices to protect connected infrastructure.

Device Performance

Organizations can monitor device health and identify equipment that may require maintenance or replacement.

As water networks become more connected, effective IoT device management becomes increasingly important.

Why Is an IoT Gateway Important?

An IoT gateway acts as a communication bridge between field devices and backend systems.

In a water management environment, many sensors may be installed across a large area. These devices may generate large amounts of data.

The gateway can collect this information before sending it to the central platform.

Modern gateways can also support edge processing. Instead of sending every piece of raw data to the cloud, some information can be processed locally.

For example, if a sensor detects an unusual flow pattern, the gateway may identify the event and send an alert immediately.

This can help reduce communication delays and unnecessary data transmission.

Smart Water Management for Leak Detection

Water leakage is one of the major challenges faced by buildings, industries, and public water networks.

A smart system can continuously monitor flow and consumption patterns. If water usage changes unexpectedly, the system can generate an alert for further investigation.

For example, if water continues to flow during a period when a building is normally inactive, the system may identify the unusual activity.

Early detection can help organizations investigate possible leaks before they result in significant water loss.

Smart Water Management in Industries

Industries often use water for manufacturing, cooling, cleaning, processing, and other operations.

A smart water management system can help industrial facilities understand where water is being used and how much is being consumed.

Connected monitoring can be applied to:

Production areas
Cooling systems
Water treatment plants
ETP and STP systems
Storage tanks
Process water lines
Utility areas

This information can support better resource planning and help industries identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary consumption.

Smart Water Management in Buildings

Commercial and residential buildings can also benefit from connected water monitoring.

Smart meters can monitor consumption at different levels, such as individual apartments, floors, or common facilities.

Building managers can use this information to understand usage patterns and investigate unusual consumption.

For large buildings, centralized monitoring can make water management easier and reduce dependence on manual meter readings.

Benefits of a Smart Water Management System

A smart water management system can provide several practical benefits.

Better Visibility

Real-time data gives organizations a clearer understanding of how water is being consumed.

Reduced Water Waste

Unusual consumption and potential leaks can be identified more quickly.

Lower Operational Effort

Automated data collection can reduce repetitive manual meter-reading activities.

Faster Problem Detection

Alerts can help teams identify unusual conditions and investigate them earlier.

Better Decision-Making

Historical and real-time data can support more informed water management decisions.

Improved Resource Efficiency

Organizations can identify inefficient consumption patterns and take corrective action.

Current Trends in Smart Water Management

Smart water management is becoming more connected and data-driven. Several technology trends are shaping the sector.

AI and Data Analytics

Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics can help identify unusual consumption patterns, predict demand, and support better decision-making.

Edge Computing

More processing is moving closer to connected devices. Edge-enabled IoT gateways can analyze selected data locally and respond faster to important events.

Real-Time Monitoring

Organizations are increasingly moving from periodic readings toward continuous monitoring and alerts.

Connected Smart Meters

Smart meters are becoming an important part of digital water infrastructure because they can provide more frequent and automated consumption data.

Cloud-Based Platforms

Cloud platforms can bring data from multiple locations into one centralized system, making it easier to monitor distributed water infrastructure.

Predictive Maintenance

Data from connected equipment can help identify potential performance issues before they become major operational problems.

The Future of Smart Water Management

The future of water management will depend increasingly on connected infrastructure and better use of data.

As more sensors, smart meters, and IoT devices are deployed, organizations will have access to more detailed information about their water networks. Combining this information with IoT device management, IoT gateways, analytics, automation, and AI can create more responsive water management systems.

The goal is not simply to collect more data. The goal is to turn that data into useful actions that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable water use.

Conclusion

A smart water management system combines sensors, smart meters, IoT devices, communication networks, IoT gateways, and software platforms to monitor and manage water more effectively.

The system collects water data, transfers it through connected infrastructure, analyzes consumption patterns, and provides useful information for faster decision-making. IoT device management helps organizations maintain and monitor connected devices, while the IoT gateway provides an important link between field devices and central platforms.

From buildings and industries to cities and public infrastructure, smart water technologies can support better visibility, faster problem detection, efficient resource use, and more sustainable water management.