Across the globe, the telecoms industry is being shaken up by the increasing priority mobile users are placing on data usage – buffered, of course, by the ongoing reign of the smartphone. But in Africa, where data coverage is patchy at best, local manufacturers are seeking out innovative solutions.

Enhancing the health of Africans, Mobilium Global has created an Android health app specifically for Africa. Called Smart Health, the free app encourages behavioural changing practices to reduce the transmission and infection rates of AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis.

Asia's growing economies are creating new opportunities, but how equal are they? How are labels used to categorise professional Asian women, and how can brands communicate with this powerful consumer demographic in a meaningful and relevant way?

In an interview with Canvas8, Director of Product Management, EMEA for mBlox Johan Lindstrom shares his views about the SMS industry, its relevance to emerging markets and why they’re not scared of smartphones.