STORY: Once dominant, internet cafes in Türkiye face decline
SHOOTING TIME: Feb. 25, 2025
DATELINE: Feb. 26, 2025
LENGTH: 00:01:40
LOCATION: Ankara
CATEGORY: ECONOMY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of an internet cafe in Ankara
2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): DEMIR BASAR, Owner of Angel Internet Cafe
3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Turkish): KUTAY CAN CORMAN, Staff member at Angel Internet Cafe

STORYLINE:
   
In Türkiye, internet cafes were once a booming industry, particularly popular among young people. However, the rise of mobile gaming and soaring operational costs have put many businesses at risk of survival.

In the heart of Ankara's bustling Kizilay district, Angel Internet Cafe is one of the few remaining survivors in the once-thriving industry.
   
For the equivalent of less than two U.S. dollars, customers can enjoy hours of gaming in a cool, dimly lit environment, a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos outside.

SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): DEMIR BASAR, Owner of Angel Internet Cafe
"Today, only a few internet cafes remain due to high operational costs and the growing popularity of gaming. Internet cafes have evolved into gaming centers. To stay competitive, they must upgrade their equipment annually, driving costs through the roof. Operational expenses, including rent, electricity, and taxes, are soaring. With clients demanding the latest technology, costs are skyrocketing. The price of PCs and equipment has risen to 150,000 liras, a significant amount, and renewal is required almost every year. As a result, the number of internet cafes has drastically declined. Even in Kizilay, Ankara's busiest area, only 10 internet cafes remain."

Kutay Can Corman, a staff member at Angel Internet Cafe, said the social interaction in the cafe is irreplaceable.

SOUNDBITE 2 (Turkish): KUTAY CAN CORMAN, Staff member at Angel Internet Cafe
"After the pandemic, many people purchased PCs and consoles for home use, which has affected internet cafes. However, the unique atmosphere of an internet cafe, particularly its superior social environment, cannot be replicated at home."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Ankara.
(XHTV)