Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Microsoft is closing its subsidiary in Pakistan, shifting to support customers through partners and regional offices. The decision follows business model changes and reflects challenges in Pakistan’s tech investment climate, despite the country’s large population and government initiatives to boost the IT sector.
Pakistan assembled 12.5 million mobile phones locally in the first five months of 2025, significantly outpacing imports which declined by over 16%. PTA recorded 10,000 telecom complaints in May with a 98% resolution rate. Smartphones make up 67% of devices on Pakistan’s networks, highlighting strong local production and ongoing sector improvements.
Pakistan’s IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja has urged the Auction Advisory Committee to meet and progress the 5G spectrum auction. The meeting is expected to be chaired by the Finance Minister following the budget. The government also awaits the Competition Commission’s approval on a telecom merger. A finalized 5G report will guide auction decisions, supporting the PM’s goal of $25 billion IT exports and imminent 5G rollout.
A Pakistani student team from IST won the Best AI Use Award at the APAC Solution Challenge 2025 for their AI-driven disaster preparedness solution, while another team from NUCES FAST also reached the top 10. These achievements reflect Pakistan’s rising potential in artificial intelligence and innovation on the global stage.
Pakistan’s PTA will deactivate SIM cards registered to deceased persons from June 2025 to curb misuse in fraud and terrorism. The phased crackdown, in collaboration with NADRA, requires heirs to update ownership records to avoid disconnection, supporting national cybersecurity and identity verification efforts.
PITB and Pakistan Railways have initiated the development of digital inspection software to enhance transparency and efficiency in railway operations, reflecting Pakistan’s broader push for e-governance and modern public services.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority and GDIP reinforced their commitment to inclusive digital growth focused on gender equity and connectivity. Discussions included updates on gender digital divide efforts and plans for subsea cable workshops to boost Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
Kacific, PTCL, and Telco Integrators partner to expand satellite broadband in Pakistan, leveraging combined infrastructure and expertise to bridge the digital divide in remote areas and empower communities.
Jazz, British Council, and Tech Valley have partnered to deliver inclusive digital education programs across Pakistan. The two-year collaboration focuses on teacher training, youth capacity building, and scalable ed-tech solutions targeting underserved communities.
Careem’s announcement to suspend its ride-hailing operations in Pakistan after more than a decade is not just the end of…