Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Robi Axiata has urged caution over Bangladesh’s planned pre-election 700MHz spectrum auction, citing political uncertainty and regulatory inconsistency. The operator warned that major investment decisions require stability, noting policy changes, spending pressures, and foreign ownership limits as key factors affecting investor confidence.
The proposed Bangladesh Telecommunication (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 significantly expands state control over digital platforms, weakens regulatory independence, and broadens surveillance powers. Rights groups warn it threatens privacy, freedom of expression, and due process, urging alignment with international human rights standards and inclusive public consultation.
Saudi Telecom Company, through Center3, has signed an MoU with PIF-backed Humain to form a joint venture developing AI-focused data centers in Saudi Arabia. The partnership targets 1GW of capacity, starting with 250MW, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global hub for AI infrastructure.
Tech Mahindra is partnering with Google Cloud to accelerate enterprise adoption of Gemini Enterprise using Gemini 2.5 models. The collaboration focuses on deploying secure, scalable Agentic AI solutions integrated with Google Cloud platforms, helping enterprises embed AI into core operations with governance, trust, and measurable business outcomes.
Morocco has implemented an advanced, technology-led security framework ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The deployment includes intelligent surveillance, specialized police units, drones, and modernized fleets across host cities, reinforcing public safety and operational readiness for the continental football tournament.
Algeria has officially launched 5G following months of testing and regulatory preparation. Backed by the government and three licensed operators, the rollout supports national priorities in AI, IoT, and digital industries, with the digital economy projected to contribute up to $13 billion to GDP by 2030.
Airtel Africa’s partnership with SpaceX will bring Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity to 174 million customers across 14 African markets. Launching in 2026, the service will extend mobile coverage to remote areas without terrestrial networks, supporting messaging and data services while advancing digital inclusion across the continent.
The deployment of the world’s first 25Gbps E-band microwave link signals a major advancement in 5G-Advanced transport networks. By delivering fiber-like capacity wirelessly, du and Huawei are enabling faster rollout, broader coverage, and scalable infrastructure that supports the UAE’s transition toward 6G-ready digital connectivity.
This Guinness World Record marks a major milestone in digital healthcare, proving that ultra-low latency, highly resilient networks can support life-critical medical procedures across continents. The achievement underscores the role of advanced telecom infrastructure in enabling real-time collaboration between healthcare systems and expanding access to specialized medical expertise worldwide.
Google has secured long-term solar power supply in Malaysia through agreements with TotalEnergies and a Shizen Energy-led consortium to support its data centres. The deals, enabled by Malaysia’s Corporate Green Power Programme, reflect rising data centre energy demand and the growing role of renewable PPAs in meeting sustainability and cost objectives.