A recent report from Telenor Asia, titled Digital Lives Decoded (Bangladesh), highlights the growing role of mobile connectivity and artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the lives of Bangladeshis. According to the findings, mobile phones are not just tools for communication but have become essential for smarter, safer living. As mobile technology evolves, it offers new possibilities for education, safety, and work, even as concerns over online security persist.
The report reveals that 8 in 10 mobile internet users in Bangladesh are optimistic about AI’s impact on education, with 6 in 10 excited about its efficiency and potential for enhancing daily life. As AI tools become more accessible in the workplace, they are gaining popularity, although a gender gap remains, with fewer women using AI at work compared to men.
The growing use of mobile phones has helped many Bangladeshis live smarter lives by providing better access to online learning, mobile wallets, and navigation services. Compared to other countries in the region, such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore, Bangladeshis are more likely to cite access to online learning as a key benefit, with 6 in 10 saying it’s a significant advantage. Additionally, mobile phones are improving the sense of safety for 52% of Bangladeshis, particularly due to the ability to call for help, share locations, and use secure payment methods.
Despite these advancements, the report also highlights rising concerns about online safety. Seven in 10 mobile internet users in Bangladesh worry about the security of their online accounts. The country shows heightened concerns about network attacks, with 3 in 10 citing it as a top issue, far higher than in Singapore or Thailand. However, Bangladeshis lag behind in adopting online safety practices such as unsubscribing from lists, clearing browsing history, and using ad-blockers, signaling a need for greater digital literacy and awareness around secure online behavior.
AI is poised to revolutionize various sectors in Bangladesh, especially education and the workplace. However, there are concerns about the impact of AI on job security, with 3 in 10 respondents expressing anxiety about this issue. Additionally, there are fears about the transparency of AI’s data handling practices, with a lack of clarity on data usage and consent. To address these challenges, experts emphasize the need for robust data protection policies and increased education around AI’s limitations and trustworthiness.
Tanveer Mohammad, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Grameenphone, concluded, “The transformative power of connectivity and the immense potential of AI for driving progress is clear. We at Grameenphone are committed to imparting essential digital skills and fostering online safety awareness through initiatives like Grameenphone Academy and GP Accelerator, ensuring that people can navigate the digital landscape confidently and securely.”
