What term describes the gap in access to personal electronics and the internet among different groups?

The term that describes the gap in access to personal electronics and the internet among different groups is "digital divide." This concept emphasizes the disparities that exist not only in access to technology but also in the ability to effectively use that technology. The digital divide often manifests along socioeconomic, geographic, and educational lines, meaning certain demographics may have significantly less access to resources like the internet and devices, which can hinder their opportunities for education, employment, and social engagement.

Understanding the digital divide is crucial, especially in contexts like health informatics, where access to information can directly impact health outcomes. Ensuring equitable access to technology is essential for promoting health literacy and improving overall community health.

Other terms like "digital gap" or "technology gap" might refer to similar issues, but they lack the broader implications and established definition that "digital divide" conveys. "Information inequality" tends to focus more on the disparity in knowledge and information availability rather than access to technology itself, making "digital divide" the most precise term for this context.