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 mobile operators deployed portable towers, AI-based traffic management, and expanded capacity to maintain uninterrupted connectivity during Tarique Rahman’s reception. Preparations along key corridors helped manage heavy data and voice traffic, ensuring stable network performance despite large crowds.
e& UAE has enhanced its 5.5G network by deploying four-carrier aggregation, enabling smartphones to access multiple channels simultaneously. The upgrade delivers speeds exceeding 4Gbps in select areas, improves performance in crowded locations, and supports the UAE’s push for advanced digital infrastructure ahead of wider rollout in 2026.
MTN dominates Sub-Saharan Africa’s mobile speed rankings as 5G adoption spreads across key markets. With strong performances in South Africa, Nigeria, and Uganda, MTN leads regional connectivity improvements amid expanding investments in 4G, 5G, and fiber infrastructure.
Bangladesh ranks among the world’s lowest 5G adopters, with 16% of shipments in early 2025 being 5G devices. But new operator launches and affordable handsets from TECNO and VIVO signal the start of wider adoption, paving the way for stronger connectivity and digital transformation.
MTN South Africa’s new ‘Handset Rent-to-Own’ program offers affordable 4G/5G smartphones without credit checks, supporting users ahead of the 2027 2G/3G shutdown. The initiative targets low-income customers to boost smartphone adoption and network transition.
Singer Sri Lanka expands 5G smartphone offerings with exclusive HONOR launches, reinforcing its market leadership and commitment to broad 5G accessibility alongside global brands.
Singer Sri Lanka and Hutch’s partnership expands mobile connectivity through Singer’s retail network, offering instant SIM access, smartphone upgrades, and enhanced digital services to promote digital inclusion nationwide.
SINGER Sri Lanka has partnered with Hutch to expand mobile connectivity by offering Hutch SIM cards and instant activation at 410 SINGER showrooms. Customers can also upgrade to 4G or 5G smartphones at discounted rates. The collaboration aims to improve digital connectivity and enhance the customer shopping experience.
A Telenor report reveals that while Bangladeshis are embracing mobile technology and AI, concerns about online security remain high, with seven in ten users worried about account safety. The report highlights a gender gap in AI adoption at work, with men outpacing women in usage.
HUTCH has partnered with Singer Sri Lanka to introduce a fully digital onboarding model for eSIM activation, simplifying the mobile experience. Customers can now easily activate eSIMs or request physical SIMs via a seamless, paperless process. This collaboration also offers discounts on select smartphones, enhancing digital inclusivity.