DigiHandig launches free app for learning digital skills
Learning about your smartphone and tablet is getting easier and more fun. At least, that's the promise of startup DigiHandig, which is launching a brand new app today. The app is available for free for every smartphone and tablet starting today. People can install the app themselves, but the DigiHandig team is also explicitly calling on family members and volunteers to help someone close to them install it. "With five minutes of your time, you give someone the gift of the digital world," says Kristel Thieme, instigator of DigiHandig.
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Launch at the first Day of Digital Inclusion
The launch took place at the Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision in Hilversum on the first national Digital Inclusion Day. A day exploring what is needed to close the digital divide. And this is desperately needed. Because where the digital world gives many opportunities to some, 2.5 to 4 million Dutch people remain frustrated. They have no or limited ability to use digital devices. With an innovative solution like DigiHandig another step is taken towards a society in which everyone can participate online.
Becoming more handy with your smartphone and tablet
DigiHandig helps beginning smartphone users become more proficient with a smartphone and tablet. Those who open the app will find themselves in a simple and cheerful learning environment. You'll find more than 80 lessons that will instantly help you get more value out of your digital device. From learning about video calling or planning routes to how to install apps or read online news. "Because of DigiHandig, I discovered new features on my phone," said Kees 't Hart, novice smartphone user.
Innovative collaboration between startup and government
DigiHandig is an initiative of New Future Lab, a startup studio for social innovation, in partnership with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. The partnership originated with the Startup in Residence Intergov program. In this program, the government works with innovative startups on societal challenges.
For DigiHandig, working with the government ensures that they keep the app's broad social context firmly in sight. "BZK challenged us to make an app that would really be for everyone," says Thieme. And that attention to digital accessibility is well reflected in the app. From good contrasts to the possibility of operation with a screen reader.
Low learning and avoid overstimulation
The DigiHandig app allows people to learn wherever and whenever they want: at home on the couch, on vacation or on the bus on the road. "DigiHandig makes learning accessible and allows you to practice in an environment where you feel comfortable and safe. Safe enough to repeat new material as often as you need to." Says Thieme of DigiHandig.
The lessons are short. A lesson lasts about 5 minutes and addresses one new digital topic. In this way, DigiHandig prevents over-stimulation. This is necessary because there is a lot of fear of the digital world. "People are so incredibly afraid of that device," says novice smartphone user 't Hart. "It's pushed into your hands and then it's a matter of trial and error."
Getting Started
The DigiHandig app is now available in the app stores or at www.digihandig.nl/download. Install the app yourself or help someone install it.
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