Work

Smartphone apps for mobility access from a social inequality perspective: a systematic literature review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: In recent years, the growing popularity of smartphone applications has established them as the primary interface for accessing transport services. This has raised concerns among scholars regarding its potentially negative impacts, such as exacerbating barriers to accessing transportation via apps and digital platforms in general. This paper reviews the academic literature on inequalities related to app-based access to transportation. We summarise the vulnerable social groups affected, categorize the types of access barriers they face, and synthesize solutions proposed in existing studies. By applying an intersectional lens, we explore how digital and mobility inequalities overlap, and introduce the concept of digital mobility inequalities. The paper concludes by proposing future research directions and outlining mitigation strategies, with the aim of fostering a critical reflection on the equity implications of the growing reliance on app-based mobility platforms.

Source: European Transport Research Review

DOI: 10.1186/s12544-026-00772-x

Authors: Dmitry Boyko, Kerstin J. Schaefer

Institutions: Leibniz University Hannover, Utrecht University

Language: English

Topic: Digital Economy and Work Transformation

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,990