Today, Shannon Sharpe found himself in an unexpected viral moment, not because of his usual sports commentary or fiery debates, but due to an accidental Instagram Live session. While trying to enjoy some private time, his phone inadvertently broadcasted his intimate moment to the world. Sharpe later explained he’d thrown his phone on the bed and didn’t think twice about it. The issue? He had never used Instagram Live before and wasn’t even aware that he was streaming.
This moment, while shocking, opens up a larger conversation about the growing gap between everyday people and the rapidly evolving technology that surrounds us. Sure, most of us know how to send an email or put a stamp on a letter, but when it comes to more advanced forms of digital communication—like Instagram Live, Zoom meetings, or FaceTime—the learning curve is steep for many.
In Sharpe’s case, it wasn’t ignorance in the insulting sense. It was a lack of familiarity with the tools that are now embedded into our daily lives. The truth is, the world has raced ahead in terms of digital literacy, leaving many behind in the dust. If you don’t know how to navigate basic functions on your smartphone, how prepared can you be for the wave of artificial intelligence that’s already reshaping industries?
The key issue isn’t just about knowing how to go Live on Instagram or host a Zoom meeting. It’s about the realization that if we don’t address this widening tech gap, we risk creating a society where only the digitally literate can thrive. Technology is no longer just for tech experts; it’s essential for everyone.
At one of our companies, we’re on a mission to change the game. Our goal is to guide people through the learning curves of technology, ensuring that no one is left behind. Whether it’s the basic administration of a smartphone or understanding AI’s potential, it’s our responsibility to make sure these tools become second nature to everyone, not just the tech-savvy few.
The lesson here is simple: it’s time to address the elephant in the room. Digital literacy is as critical as knowing how to read and write, and if you’re not up to speed, you’re already behind. Let’s open up the conversation, bridge the gap, and make technology an asset, not an obstacle, for everyone.
