← Google Interview Insights

Google·Product Manager·Onsite - Product Sense / Strategy·Senior

Senior
May 2026

Summary

Google PM interview, one question about improving internet access across Africa. Short session, felt more like a product strategy case than a standard product sense question.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

How would you improve internet coverage in Africa?

Product StrategyProduct Sense & IdeationAdaptability & Ambiguity
Author's notes

I went straight to infrastructure and blanked on the demand side for a solid minute.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by clarifying the scope—which regions, user segments, and types of coverage (urban vs. rural, mobile vs. fixed)—then structure your answer around a user-centric product strategy. Focus on affordability, infrastructure, and local partnerships, and propose measurable solutions with a clear prioritization framework.

Pro tip: Show awareness of Africa's diversity by segmenting markets (e.g., by GDP, urbanization, existing infrastructure) and tailoring solutions accordingly; avoid one-size-fits-all answers.

1. Clarify the goal and scope

Ask clarifying questions to define what 'improve' means: increase coverage, affordability, adoption, or speed? Specify target regions and user segments.

2. Understand the current landscape and barriers

Identify key obstacles: high infrastructure costs, low ARPU, regulatory hurdles, lack of electricity, and device affordability. Use data to segment the market.

3. Brainstorm and prioritize solutions

Generate ideas across technology (e.g., Loon, TV white space), business models (e.g., community networks, zero-rating), and partnerships (e.g., with local ISPs, governments). Prioritize by impact and feasibility.

4. Define success metrics and iterate

Propose metrics like population coverage, cost per GB, adoption rate, and NPS. Outline a pilot-and-scale approach with feedback loops.

Key Points to Mention

  • Affordability: low-cost smartphones, data pricing, and payment models (e.g., pay-as-you-go)
  • Infrastructure: leveraging existing assets (e.g., fiber, towers) and innovative technologies (e.g., balloons, satellites)
  • Partnerships: collaborating with governments, local entrepreneurs, and NGOs to navigate regulations and build trust
  • Localization: content and services in local languages, relevant to local needs (e.g., agriculture, health)
  • Sustainability: ensuring solutions are economically viable and scalable without long-term subsidies
  • Regulatory environment: advocating for favorable policies like spectrum allocation and infrastructure sharing

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.