and services. Many users also point out manners concerning mobile phones as they have been highly penetrated (Figure 1-4-11).

Users feel that the most important matter by far to improve information and communications networks and services is “personal awareness and responsibility”, at 89.3% (Figure 1-4-12).

Users feel that it is important, in order to reap the benefits of information and communications networks and services, for each every user to have personal awareness and responsibility rather than dealing with it through regulations and superintendence. In the future, as we approach the realization of ubiquitous networks, the convenience and fun will increase and the opportunities for choice among various information and communications networks and services expand. There is a desire that, as is the case in our current society, social rules and information and communications network society rules are respected, and that both individuals and companies will move ahead with a sense of personal awareness and responsibility.

## (5) Looking to Bridging the Digital Divide (i) Current status of regional divide in broadband services

As for the state of broadband service, in terms of cities, towns, and villages where service is offered in at least one part of the territory, the total nationwide where at least one broadband service is being offered was 83.3% as of the end of fiscal 2003, and 60.9% for underpopulated regions. When comparing cities with town and villages, the figure is 100% for cities and 78.3% for towns and villages, with broadband facilities progress-

Figure 1-4-11 Conduct that Should be Avoided when Using Information and Communications Networks and Services (multiple responses possible)

ing mainly in cities, and private sector investment not progressing in underpopulated regions due to profitability issues, leaving a regional divide (Figure 1-4-13).

## (ii) Current status of broadband usage divide

Broadband usage increased between the end of 2002 and the end of 2003, irrespective of age group, gender, size of town, or annual income. Since the increase in broadband usage among the under 49 age group was particularly sharp, though there was a narrowing of the Internet usage divide by age group. Broadband usage divide is continuing to spread (Figure 1-4-14).

## (iii) Current status of internet usage divide

At the end of 2003, there was a big divide in Internet usage ratio between younger users and older users. In particular, all age groups under 60 had a usage ratio of over 60%, but usage dropped dramatically among the over 60s, to 21.6%.

## (iv) Breaking barriers in Information and communications usage for the elderly and disabled

In order to fully enjoy the advantages of a ubiquitous network society, it is necessary to build a society where everyone, including the elderly and those people with disabilities, can freely transmit and access information. From this perspective, there is a need to develop information and communications equipment and systems that are adapted to the elderly and people with disabilities, and to work towards their penetration and the improvement of social environment (universal design).

This is why there is an ongoing approach to information and communications equipment that can easily be

Figure 1-4-12 Matters Important for Improving Use of Information and Communications Networks and Services (multiple responses possible)

Source: Survey of Personal Activities in a Ubiquitous Network Society