The digital divide describes unequal access to digital technologies and the opportunities they provide. A connection is part of that picture, but so are suitable devices, affordability, skills and usable services.
A task that is easy on a laptop with reliable broadband may be difficult on a shared phone with limited data. Asking only whether someone is “online” can conceal that difference. To understand access, examine the task people are expected to complete and the conditions under which they must do it.