Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)
Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)
technology application

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)

2
domains
8
stories
6
SDGs
updatedSep 9, 2022
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A communication protocol that connects mobile devices with network operators and service providers without connecting to the Internet. It is commonly used for prepaid callback services, mobile money, location-based content services, and even humanitarian relief.
A communication protocol that connects mobile devices with network operators and service providers without connecting to the Internet. It is commonly used for prepaid callback services, mobile money, location-based content services, and even humanitarian relief.

A communication protocol embedded in all GSM devices enables mobile devices to communicate with mobile network operators and service providers. Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) does not rely on 3G or 4G connection to work but with simple handsets powered with data exchange packets. This technological solution is intended to overcome the barrier between data necessity and technology availability.

The USSD technology has been used to enhance access to various local and community services such as healthcare assessments, mobile money transactions, booking transportation, small group social networking, WAP internet browsing, and prepaid callback services. More recently, numerous peers are escalating efforts to deploy back-end blockchain technology allowing users to establish Proof-of-Existence, create cryptocurrency accounts, and send tokens between phone numbers.

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Related Content

8 stories
1 organizations
2 technology domains
8 industries
  • Communications
  • Defense & Security
  • Finance
  • Government & Citizenship
  • Healthcare
  • Media & Interface
  • Education
  • Mobility
11 topics
  • Human Rights
  • Digital Economy
  • Digital Governance and Society
  • Global Health
  • Inclusive Finance
  • Prevention and Management of Acute Crises and Disasters
  • Decentralization & Local Governance
  • Economic Policy
  • Education
  • Political & Social Participation
  • Trade
6 SDGs
  • 04 Quality Education
  • 09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
  • 08 Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • 10 Reduce inequalities
  • 03 Good Health and Well-Being
  • 01 No Poverty