Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Iran may restore internet access after days of nationwide blackout imposed during the deadliest unrest since 1979. Officials say over 5,000 people were killed as protests were crushed. A brief state TV hack exposed cracks in control, while arrests continue and regional tensions remain high.
AI-generated protest videos are flooding social media as Iran’s internet blackout limits real footage. NewsGuard identified seven deepfakes with 3.5 million views, shared by both sides to shape narratives. Experts warn “hallucinated” visuals now dominate breaking news, distorting reality and exploiting information vacuums.
Starlink has made its satellite internet service free for users in Iran amid protests and state-imposed internet blackouts. The move allows terminals to operate without payment, bypassing censorship and reinforcing Starlink’s growing role as a geopolitical tool enabling uncensored connectivity in authoritarian environments.
Iran repelled a highly sophisticated cyberattack targeting telecom-linked national infrastructure, according to its ICT minister. The two-phase attack was contained using both external and domestic capabilities, highlighting Iran’s cybersecurity resilience despite ongoing international sanctions.
Vodafone and HiWEB have formed a strategic partnership to modernize Iran’s broadband infrastructure, expand mobile and fixed services, and introduce Vodafone-supported IoT solutions. The alliance will also enhance service quality for Vodafone’s multinational customers while supporting HiWEB’s nationwide expansion goals.
Iran’s participation in WTDC-25 supports its goal of expanding international cooperation in telecom and digital innovation. The conference provides a platform to shape global ICT policy while advancing collaboration in cybersecurity, AI, IoT, and digital development across the region.
Iran engaged regional regulators at SATRC-26 to advance digital cooperation, align on emerging ICT policies, and strengthen spectrum, connectivity, and innovation frameworks across South Asia.
Over 65 nations will compete in the 2nd International Technology Olympics in Tehran from October 27–30, featuring over 11,000 Iranian students. The event promotes AI, robotics, IoT, and programming innovation, coinciding with Iran’s rise to 72nd in UNCTAD’s 2025 Technology and Innovation ranking.
Iran has ordered senior officials to cease using connected devices due to fears of cyber espionage amid escalating cyberattacks linked to Israel. The move highlights ongoing digital confrontations and includes warnings against apps like WhatsApp amid accusations of intelligence gathering.
Iran plans to roll out 5G internet in major cities by March 2025, with a focus on metropolises. The government will auction radio frequencies needed for the expansion, and an agreement with South Korea will enable 5G on Samsung phones. The network will offer speeds up to 500 Mbps.