In India, Russia and Brazil, the older types of mobile phones are still the most popular, according to a study published by Nielsen. In India, for example, 80% of phone users own an old-style feature phone, and only 10% have a smartphone.

In the second part of his report on e-commerce in Latin America, Ulysses De La Torre discusses the key differences between the Brazilian and Mexican markets, and examines the opportunities that are available to online retailers in Mexico.

Known as ‘Biper’ in France, ‘Tok’ in Portugal, or ‘Flashing’ in Nigeria, a missed call can mean “I got home ok” or “I’m free to meet you now.” Indians often give each other missed calls to communicate for free, and in Bangladesh missed calls account for 70% of mobile traffic.

Previously considered a digital blackspot, Brazil is rapidly gaining a reputation as South America's most social media-savvy country. Responding to the shift, telecoms company Claro is offering free access to Twitter.