Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan is set to launch 5G services in June 2025, following a detailed rollout schedule presented by the Ministry of IT and Telecom. The plan includes spectrum auctions and policy reforms leading up to the service launch. This marks a key step in Pakistan’s digital transformation.
The Telecom Operators Association (TOA) has raised concerns about a 300% increase in the price of fibre broadband routers, warning that the hike contradicts Pakistan’s Digital Vision. The association calls for a transparent, market-driven valuation process to prevent negative impacts on broadband expansion and affordability.
PTCL and Ufone have received the largest share of the Rs 141.66 billion subsidy from the Universal Service Fund to expand telecom services in underserved areas. The funds will help improve cellular, broadband, and fiber-optic services, with initiatives like broadband for sustainable development and solar-powered telecom sites.
Google Pay is set to launch in Pakistan by mid-March 2025, allowing users to link debit and credit cards to Google Pay for seamless contactless payments. The service, in collaboration with Visa, Mastercard, and local banks, will help boost Pakistan’s growing digital payments sector, initially focusing on basic payments.
Pakistan has joined the 2Africa Cable Project, which spans 45,000 km of undersea cables connecting 46 stations across 33 countries. The telecom sector saw significant growth, with a 17% revenue increase, while Pakistan’s global digital rankings improved. The country also advanced in mobile connectivity and cybersecurity efforts.
The +92Disrupt conference gathered over 850 tech leaders to highlight Pakistan’s potential in IT and innovation. The event focused on how technology can drive economic transformation and foster collaboration between startups. A girls’ team from NED University won the AI Challenge, emphasizing the role of youth in global tech advancement.
Experts predict that AI and IT will play a transformative role in Pakistan by 2025, driving economic growth and improving education. Students recognize the importance of these technologies for academic success, while experts stress the need for better internet infrastructure to fully leverage AI and IT advancements.
The collaboration aims to promote a digitally empowered economy in Pakistan, fostering technological excellence and equitable access to IT services nationwide.
The company will prioritize consumer connectivity, financial services, enterprise solutions, entertainment, infrastructure, and AI-driven solutions.
This partnership is expected to have a positive impact on Pakistan’s agricultural economy and support the growth of the sector.