Artificial Intelligence and Wireless Networks in Indigenous Villages: Potentials and Challenges to Bridge the Digital Divide

Indigenous populations in Latin American countries—including Panama, Guatemala, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and Brazil—report less Internet access compared to non-indigenous households. This digital divide can be attributed to factors like limited technology access, lack of energy sources, and cultural relevance. While artificial intelligence (AI) is seen as a potential enhancer of communications and Internet services, its benefits are currently limited to urban areas. The paper discusses the potential opportunities and challenges AI and Wireless Networks could bring to these disconnected indigenous communities, highlighting the need for further discussion and action by the technical and scientific communities.