Question

review the second paragraph.
the connected city
1 today, well more than half of the world owns a smartphone. yet connectivity to the internet can still come with a hefty price tag. this can be problematic for both travelers and local residents who want to connect for free wherever they go. the internet not only allows for communication, it provides access to information, jobs, and education. furthermore, in todays high - tech world, people are accessing more data more frequently from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. city - provided online connectivity adds value to an area and provides what many believe is a basic need. not only does free wi - fi drive economic development by enhancing businesses and attracting tourism, it also provides online connectivity that many cannot afford.
what does the second paragraph do?
it provides background information on the current state of free wi - fi.
it compares u.s. cities with free wi - fi to those in other countries.
it illustrates the affordability of establishing a municipal wi - fi network.

Explanation:

The second paragraph (the first paragraph of "The Connected City") talks about the prevalence of smartphones, the cost of internet connectivity, the importance of internet access, and the value of city - provided free Wi - Fi (including its role in economic development and providing access to those who can't afford it). This is background information on the current state of free Wi - Fi. The paragraph does not compare U.S. cities with those in other countries, and it doesn't talk about the affordability of establishing a municipal Wi - Fi network.

Answer:

It provides background information on the current state of free Wi - Fi.