Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal Telecom plans to launch 5G in standalone mode through open bidding, potentially ending its long-standing partnership with Huawei for new network deployments. The move reflects security, policy, and technology considerations as Nepal advances its digital transformation agenda and prepares for nationwide 5G rollout.
WiFi Nepal has launched a special NPL 2025 promotion offering customers a 12-month bonus internet subscription on the purchase of its 200 Mbps annual plan. Priced at Rs 11,750 including VAT, the package also includes a 5 GHz dual-band Nokia router for faster speeds, better coverage, and reduced interference.
Mobile operator Ncell has begun issuing numbers under a new 971 prefix after receiving approval from Nepal’s telecom regulator. The new range was introduced as the company’s existing number series approached exhaustion. Ncell has asked government bodies, banks, and service providers to update their systems to ensure seamless OTP delivery, digital transactions, and mobile-based services.
Ncell CEO Michael Foley has called on the Nepal government to provide clear policy direction for the launch of 5G, citing uncertainty around spectrum, taxation, investment, and licensing as major barriers. He warned that outdated telecom laws and ambiguity over Ncell’s ownership status after 2029 are discouraging long-term investment. While 5G is seen as vital for Nepal’s digital future, Foley said government facilitation is essential to make nationwide deployment commercially viable.
Vianet has launched its Superhit Internet Pack in Nepal, offering priority same-day customer support for users on 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps, and 300 Mbps plans. Priced at Rs 11,200 annually for the 200 Mbps package, the offer includes a discounted Mesh Router and aims to enhance service reliability and customer satisfaction for both new and existing subscribers.
Nepal Telecom has significantly boosted 4G access across Karnali Province, connecting remote districts like Humla, Dailekh, Jajarkot, and Dolpa for the first time. With 4G now covering more than 98% of local levels nationwide, the expansion marks a major leap in rural connectivity, supporting both residents and tourists across the region.
Nepal Telecom’s Q1 results reflect persistent revenue pressure caused by OTT adoption and rising operational costs. Profitability remains strained, underscoring the need for aggressive financial and service reforms to restore growth in Nepal’s telecom sector.
Nepal Telecom has been recognized as Nepal’s highest VAT contributor, reflecting its strong financial performance and steady role in national revenue generation. The IRD’s latest awards highlight the telecom industry’s importance to Nepal’s economy and encourage tax compliance across sectors.
Nepal has inaugurated its first National AI Centre to lead policy, innovation, and collaboration in artificial intelligence, marking a key step in the country’s digital transformation journey under the Digital Nepal vision.
Nepal has inaugurated its first National AI Centre in Kathmandu to drive digital transformation, strengthen governance, and support innovation under the Digital Nepal vision. The Centre will implement the AI Policy 2082, foster public-private collaboration, and promote AI adoption across sectors.