As an expert in the field of technology and digital trends, I've been closely monitoring the adoption and usage of smartphones worldwide. Smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, offering a myriad of functionalities that have transformed the way we communicate, work, and entertain ourselves.

Step 1: Answer in English

The penetration of smartphones globally has been on a steady rise over the past decade. According to various studies and reports, the percentage of the world's population that owns a smartphone has significantly increased. However, the figure mentioned in the provided context, which states that "Just over 36 percent of the world's population is projected to use a smartphone by 2018, up from about 10 percent in 2011," may not reflect the most current statistics.

To provide a more updated perspective, we must consider the rapid growth in smartphone adoption, especially in emerging markets. The International Data Corporation (IDC) and other research firms regularly publish reports on the smartphone industry, which can offer more recent data. As of my last update in April 2023, the global smartphone user penetration rate was estimated to be higher than the 2018 figure, reflecting the ongoing trend of increased accessibility and affordability of smartphones.

Several factors contribute to the widespread adoption of smartphones:


1. Technological Advancements: The continuous innovation in smartphone technology has made these devices more powerful and versatile, capable of performing tasks that were once the domain of computers.


2. Affordability: The cost of smartphones has decreased over time, making them more accessible to a broader range of consumers. Budget smartphones with decent specifications have flooded the market, catering to price-sensitive users.


3. Internet Accessibility: The expansion of internet access, particularly mobile internet, has been a crucial factor in smartphone adoption. With more people coming online, the demand for devices that can access the internet on the go has increased.


4. Mobile-First Markets: In many developing countries, the adoption of smartphones has skipped the traditional desktop phase, with users going straight to mobile for their internet needs.


5. Demographic Shifts: Younger generations who have grown up with technology are more likely to own and use smartphones. As this demographic grows, so does the overall smartphone penetration.


6. Economic Growth: Economic development in various regions has led to an increase in disposable income, allowing more people to purchase smartphones.

It's important to note that while the overall trend is towards increased smartphone ownership, there are still disparities in penetration rates across different regions and socioeconomic groups. Factors such as income levels, education, and infrastructure can influence the accessibility and adoption of smartphones.

For a precise and current percentage of the world that owns a smartphone, one would need to refer to the latest market research reports or global surveys that provide such data. However, given the dynamic nature of this metric, it's safe to say that the percentage is continually evolving and has likely surpassed the 2018 projections.

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Just over 36 percent of the world's population is projected to use a smartphone by 2018, up from about 10 percent in 2011.read more >>