Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh’s central bank has approved Robi’s SmartPay Limited to operate as a licensed digital payment provider, expanding the telecom’s fintech footprint and marking a major step in its financial service diversification strategy.
NetCom Learning Bangladesh and the Algerian ambassador discussed a strategic collaboration to train one million Algerians in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing under Algeria’s Digital 2030 vision. The partnership also aims to upskill five million teachers and strengthen digital education ties.
The introduction of PayPal in Bangladesh marks a critical step toward global digital integration. It will not only empower freelancers and IT firms to expand their client base but also accelerate e-commerce adoption and online revenue collection across the country.
TikTok, working with the Bangladesh government, launched a dedicated STEM Feed to deliver credible, curated science and technology content to learners nationwide. The Dhaka event gathered officials, educators, and creators; #STEMTok will amplify local, Bangla-first content. With safety features and policy alignment, the initiative aims to narrow urban-rural learning gaps and empower youth through accessible digital education.
The BTRC’s July 2025 test revealed that Bangladesh’s major operators have failed to meet 4G rollout commitments, with coverage gaps in over half of surveyed areas. Grameenphone, Banglalink, Robi, and Teletalk all fell short of service benchmarks, prompting regulatory warnings and renewed scrutiny over network quality.
Rupali Bank PLC has launched its modern mobile banking service ‘RupaliCash’, offering e-KYC accounts, fund transfers, salary payments, bill pay, and digital transactions. As the only state-owned bank with its own mobile financial service, Rupali Bank aims to expand financial inclusion and enhance customer convenience nationwide.
Grameenphone and Rakuten Symphony are rolling out South Asia’s first Open RAN pilot, starting with 4G and 5G NSA sites in Bangladesh. The initiative is expected to pave the way for a nationwide Open RAN deployment, reinforcing Grameenphone’s strategy for a flexible, future-ready network.
Bangladesh’s telecom regulator BTRC has set a 10 Mbps minimum 4G download speed requirement nationwide under new QoS rules, extending to mobile operators, NTTNs, and ISPs. The policy also tightens standards for voice quality, fixed broadband, and customer service, with monthly compliance checks starting September 2025.
Starlink has launched its corporate internet service in Bangladesh, with Eastern Bank and 20 other firms signing up. The world’s largest Starlink ground station in Gazipur will power the service, while Robi becomes the first reseller. High costs could restrict uptake, but the service promises to transform rural connectivity.
A GSMA report warns Bangladesh’s high spectrum costs and heavy taxation are holding back 5G adoption and network investment. By aligning spectrum prices with regional or global levels, the country could accelerate 5G rollout, raise speeds, and unlock up to $45 billion in economic growth by 2035.