Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Orange Maroc introduces Yo Max 5G plans and the Livebox 7 Wi-Fi 7 router, providing customizable mobile services, stable home connectivity, and developer-friendly applications. The launch supports Morocco’s digital transformation, meeting growing demand for streaming, gaming, and e-learning on its 5G network.
U Mobile, which is continuing its nationwide 5G rollout, said it remains ahead of schedule in targeting 80% population coverage by the second half of 2026.
Beyon has been selected by Kuwait’s KAPP as the winning investor for a $2.8 billion, 50-year PPP to develop and operate a nationwide high-speed fiber broadband network. The project will cover 90% of Kuwait’s plots, support 10Gbps connectivity, and advance the country’s Vision 2035 digital transformation goals.
Ufone and Zong have each deposited US$15 million to qualify for Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction, which offers 597 MHz across multiple bands. The PTA hopes to raise over US$634 million, though operators face strict rollout and investment requirements that raise concerns about 5G’s financial viability.
MTN Ghana will invest $1.1 billion over three years to expand 4G and 5G networks, build data centres, and strengthen AI and cloud infrastructure. The initiative aims to enhance digital inclusion, support skills development, and position Ghana as a regional digital hub in West Africa.
e& Carrier & Wholesale Services has activated the 2Africa submarine cable at its SmartHub data centre in the UAE. Spanning 45,000 km, the system enhances international capacity, resilience, and latency performance, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global connectivity hub amid growing demand for cloud and digital services.
Türk Telekom and InterDigital have demonstrated the world’s first collaborative cellular and Wi-Fi sensing system based on early 6G architecture. The ISAC-powered solution improves indoor sensing accuracy and continuity, supporting use cases in manufacturing, healthcare, and smart buildings while advancing global 6G standards development.
Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction is advancing as $30m in earnest money has been deposited ahead of the February 27 deadline. With Ufone and Zong confirmed and Jazz expected to join, the March 10 sale of 597 MHz aims to raise over $634m and accelerate next-generation mobile services nationwide.
Ericsson ConsumerLab research shows half of Saudi consumers would choose guaranteed 5G performance in key moments, with many willing to pay more. Assured connectivity now strongly influences mobile plan decisions and could add up to two months of ARPU annually. AI growth is expected to further increase demand for premium network experiences.
Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering rerouting the East to Med Data Corridor through Syria instead of Israel, reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics. The move aligns with Riyadh’s broader push to expand regional digital infrastructure and position itself as a data bridge between Asia and Europe.