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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+4

Pakistan Gets Its First NVIDIA H200 AI Chips: Why It's a Big Deal

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Indus Cloud (Master Group), with Cisco, launched Pakistan's first AI GPU cluster powered by NVIDIA H200 chips in August 2026, bringing brand-new H200 GPUs onto Pakistani soil for the first time. These high-end chips power AI training and large language models, giving local businesses, startups, and universities in-country access to world-class AI computing.

2,284   1,136 Read Article

Latest

CPKXFeatured

The $700 Billion AI Arms Race: What It Means for Pakistan

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In 2026, the global AI infrastructure race reached staggering scale: hyperscalers are spending nearly $700 billion on data centers, Anthropic committed roughly $71 billion to compute, and TSMC raised US investment to $265 billion. Driven by a persistent chip shortage, compute has become AI's defining battleground, widening the gap between a few nations and everyone else.

1,812   2,453 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+7

How to Earn Your First Income With AI Tools in Pakistan

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To earn your first income with AI tools in Pakistan: pick one skill (writing, design, or video), learn a free AI tool like ChatGPT or Canva, package a simple service, create samples, offer it on Fiverr or locally, and set up Payoneer for payments. Start with free tools, avoid instant-income scams, and focus on real value.

1,781   1,609 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyPakistan+6

Raast Will Process More Money Than Pakistan's Entire Economy in 2026

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Raast is Pakistan's instant payment system by the State Bank, enabling free, real-time money transfers between people, businesses, and government. In 2026 it's projected to process over $500 billion, exceeding Pakistan's estimated $452 billion GDP. It has grown roughly 162 times since 2022, and a new consent-based "pull payment" feature is launching soon.

1,313   2,377 Read Article

Latest

CPKXNews

The Brain Drain Debate: Should Pakistani Engineers Stay or Leave?

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The brain drain debate weighs individual opportunity against national loss. Around 11,000 engineers left Pakistan in 2024–25 seeking stability and higher pay, while critics warn of massive productivity losses. Supporters cite record remittances as "brain gain." The honest answer isn't stay or leave, but building a Pakistan where staying is a real choice, not a sacrifice.

1,440   1,069 Read Article

Latest

BusinessCPKX+1

How to Start Selling Online in Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To start selling online in Pakistan, choose a channel: Daraz for instant reach and traffic, your own Shopify or WooCommerce store for control and branding, or social selling (Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp) for the lowest-cost start. Pakistan's e-commerce market exceeds PKR 1.2 trillion, most orders come from mobile, and cash on delivery still dominates.

1,600   1,274 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+6

Pakistan's Freelance Dream Is Changing: The Next 5 Years

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's freelance economy is entering a K-shaped split: as AI automates commodity work like basic writing and data entry, low-skill freelancers face collapsing demand, while specialized freelancers who use AI and offer human judgment earn more than ever. The era of selling cheap execution is ending; the future rewards those who build and specialize.

2,963   1,133 Read Article

Latest

CPKXTechnology

The Skills Pakistani Coders Need to Survive the AI Coding Era

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To survive the AI coding era, Pakistani developers must shift from writing code to directing and verifying it. Key skills include system design, critically reviewing AI-generated code, effective prompting, debugging, cloud and deployment knowledge, strong fundamentals, and communication. AI now writes nearly 50% of code, but only 29% of developers trust its accuracy, human judgment is the differentiator.

2,194   1,984 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Get a Full-Time Remote Job From Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

A remote job is full-time salaried employment with a foreign company, offering stable monthly income and benefits, while freelancing means variable project-based income from multiple clients. To land a remote job from Pakistan, build in-demand skills, create a portfolio, optimize LinkedIn, apply through vetted platforms like Toptal, Turing, and remote-first companies, and register with SECP/FBR for taxes.

2,793   884 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyPakistan+4

Why Most Pakistani Startups Struggle to Raise Money

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Most Pakistani startups struggle to raise funding due to a "progression problem": too few local investors, thin follow-on capital, and cautious money that bets on founders over ideas. Pakistan's startups raised about $1 billion since 2015, versus India's $160 billion. Founders can turn to non-dilutive grants like the Pakistan Startup Fund, revenue, and warm introductions.

1,377   2,183 Read Article

Latest

CPKXMobile & Gadgets+1

Best Budget Smartphones in Pakistan Under PKR 50,000 (2026)

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best budget smartphones under PKR 50,000 in Pakistan (2026) include the Infinix Hot 60 Pro for gaming (144Hz AMOLED), the Tecno Spark 40 Pro for balanced value, the Redmi Note 14 as the safest all-rounder, and the itel S26 Ultra for its premium display. Always verify PTA approval and check the IMEI before buying.

3,223   1,411 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanGovernment+6

Pakistan Launches NAAI: 7 AI Hubs and 560 Startups

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The National Artificial Intelligence Advancement Initiative (NAAI) is Pakistan's plan to establish seven AI Hubs, in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit, to incubate 560 startups over two years and give non-dilutive seed grants to 150. Launched under the National AI Policy, it focuses on healthcare, agriculture, fintech, and more.

2,739   2,306 Read Article

Featured

EducationCPKX+3

iPhone 17 Price in Pakistan 2026: Full Guide + PTA Tax

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In 2026, iPhone 17 prices in Pakistan range from about Rs. 400,000 for the base model to nearly Rs. 900,000 for the Pro Max, depending on storage. PTA tax adds roughly Rs. 129,000 to Rs. 213,000 per device. Note that FBR, not PTA, calculates the tax live at registration based on the current dollar rate.

3,969   2,107 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyCP+3

Ali Javan: The Forgotten Genius Who Built the Gas Laser

Syed - Connected Pakistan

Ali Javan (1926-2016) was an Iranian-American physicist who co-invented the first gas laser, the helium-neon laser, in 1960 at Bell Labs. It was the world's first continuous-beam laser, enabling barcode scanners, fiber-optic internet, laser printers, and medical devices. On December 13, 1960, Javan used it to make the first-ever laser-transmitted phone call.

1,453   2,396 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyCPKX+3

Muse Spark 1.1: Meta's New AI at a Quarter of the Price

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Muse Spark 1.1 is a multimodal reasoning AI model released by Meta Superintelligence Labs on July 9, 2026. Built for agentic tasks like coding and computer use, it features a 1 million-token context window and launched via the new Meta Model API at around $4.25 per million output tokens, roughly a quarter of rival prices.

1,792   1,428 Read Article

Latest

EducationPakistanCP+2

Is Crypto Haram? What Mufti Taqi Usmani's Fatwa Says

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani, a leading Islamic scholar and president of Darul Uloom Karachi, issued a fatwa in June 2026 declaring cryptocurrency trading impermissible under Shariah. The ruling argues that crypto, tokens, and stablecoins like USDT do not qualify as "maal" (wealth) in Islamic law. It is a religious opinion, not a state law.

4,597   2,460 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyCP+3

Apple's $30 Billion Chip Deal: What It Means Globally

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

On July 8, 2026, Apple announced a multiyear agreement with Broadcom exceeding $30 billion to produce over 15 billion US-made chips through at least 2031. It is Apple's largest commitment under its American Manufacturing Program, includes a $1.5 billion expansion of Broadcom's Fort Collins, Colorado facility, and is part of Apple's $600 billion US investment.

3,037   1,206 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyCPKX+1

How to Get an eSIM in Pakistan 2026: Complete Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To get an eSIM in Pakistan, visit a Jazz, Zong, or Ufone service center with your CNIC, complete biometric verification, and receive a QR code. Then go to your phone's settings, add a cellular plan, and scan the code. Charges range from free (Jazz) to around Rs. 2,000, and an eSIM-compatible phone is required.

3,371   1,453 Read Article

Latest

GovernmentCPKX+3

Pakistan's PM Cloud Program: Up to $13,500 for Startups

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The Prime Minister's Cloud Program for Startups, run by Ignite under Pakistan's Ministry of IT, reimburses eligible startups for cloud costs, up to $13,500 across two tiers, with up to 60% of spending covered. It supports startups using providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure to scale affordably, plus expert guidance.

2,291   2,468 Read Article

Latest

BusinessCPKX+3

Why Forbes Calls Pakistan a Fintech Rising Star in 2026

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan has emerged as a fintech rising star, per Forbes. Its roughly 450 fintech firms have raised around $391 million in venture capital, digital banks like Easypaisa are launching, and the country ranks third globally in crypto adoption. The goal is to lift adult financial inclusion from 64% in 2023 to 75% by 2028.

2,960   1,118 Read Article

Latest

EducationTechnologyCP+4

Only 8.7% of Pakistanis Own a Computer: The Real Gap

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Only 8.7% of Pakistani households own a desktop or laptop, according to Gallup Pakistan Digital Analytics (July 2026). This places Pakistan near the bottom globally, alongside India and Bangladesh at around 9%, and far behind South Korea at 99%. Smartphones alone cannot build the knowledge economy Pakistan aims for.

2,798   2,416 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanGovernment+7

Pakistan Orders Government Data to Be Hosted Locally

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's National Data Governance Policy 2026 declares government data a strategic national asset and requires sensitive government and personal data to be hosted and processed within Pakistan. Offshore processing needs prior approval and safeguards. The Pakistan Digital Authority will oversee implementation, aiming to strengthen data sovereignty, privacy, and citizens' digital rights.

2,795   1,232 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyPakistan+5

Pakistan's Call Centre Exports Cross $300 Million on AI

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's call centre and BPO export earnings crossed $300 million in FY2025-26, reaching $322 million from July to May, a 19% year-on-year rise. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, growth is largely driven by AI-powered customer support tools that improve efficiency, cut costs, and enable round-the-clock multilingual service for global clients.

2,311   2,021 Read Article

Latest

BusinessResearchTechnology+3

Pakistani AI Startups Are Winning a16z and YC Backing

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani AI startups are attracting top global investors in 2026. Metal, founded by former Airlift CEO Usman Gul and backed by a16z and Y Combinator, builds an AI operating system for fundraising. Other rising names include Newton (healthcare AI), Metric (SME finance), and TaxGPT (tax automation), signaling Pakistan's shift from outsourcing to product-building.

2,224   1,478 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyPakistan+3

5G in Pakistan: Big Promises, Bigger Connectivity Gap

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan’s 5G rollout promises faster connectivity and economic growth, but challenges remain. With low fiber penetration and limited rural internet access, the benefits of 5G may initially reach only major cities, raising concerns about digital inclusion and infrastructure readiness across the country.

2,108   1,268 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyCPKX+2

Abdur Rehman: Building Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Through Innovation

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Abdur Rehman is a Pakistani entrepreneur, startup growth strategist, and ecosystem builder working on startup development, talent enablement, AI-driven business systems, and entrepreneurship opportunities through ventures including Rozi Academy, Rexen Solutions, and TUAM E KHAAS.

3,494   993 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+4

Afroze Khan: From Byteify’s Collapse to Revenue Incarnate. The Pakistani Operator Quietly Rebuilding How Service Businesses Sell

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Afroze Khan is the founder of Revenue Incarnate, a Karachi and Las Vegas based revenue systems firm. After the collapse of his first company, Byteify, he developed a methodology focused on fixing offer positioning, pipeline architecture, and revenue infrastructure, helping service businesses scale through Revenue as a Service.

2,267   2,371 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyCP+3

Ali Javan: The Forgotten Genius Who Built the Gas Laser

Syed - Connected Pakistan

Ali Javan (1926-2016) was an Iranian-American physicist who co-invented the first gas laser, the helium-neon laser, in 1960 at Bell Labs. It was the world's first continuous-beam laser, enabling barcode scanners, fiber-optic internet, laser printers, and medical devices. On December 13, 1960, Javan used it to make the first-ever laser-transmitted phone call.

1,453   2,396 Read Article

Latest

EducationBusinessTechnology+4

Alibaba BNPL in Pakistan: Opportunity or Hidden Risk?

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Alibaba’s entry into Pakistan’s BNPL market through KOKO Tech introduces new financial access opportunities but also raises concerns about debt risks, low financial literacy, and limited consumer protection frameworks in the country.

5,351   2,214 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyCP+3

Apple vs OpenAI Lawsuit: The AI Hardware War Explained

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

On July 10, 2026, Apple sued OpenAI in California federal court, alleging OpenAI stole trade secrets to develop its own AI hardware. Apple claims OpenAI recruited Apple employees and encouraged them to share confidential product information. OpenAI denies interest in others' trade secrets. The case marks a dramatic breakdown of the 2024 Apple-OpenAI partnership.

2,735   2,386 Read Article

Featured

CPKXTechnology+5

Ali Ashfaq: From Data Engineer to Founder of DataRopes.ai

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Ali Ashfaq is a Lahore-based data engineer and the founder and CEO of DataRopes.ai, a company helping global businesses turn raw data into decision-making advantage. With nearly a decade across TenX, Systems Limited, and Coca-Cola CCI, and having engineered Pakistan's TASDEEQ credit bureau platform, he builds modern data architectures, pipelines, and AI systems for international clients.

2,913   2,109 Read Article

Latest

CPKXTechnology+2

Best Payment Gateways for Pakistani Freelancers in 2026

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani freelancers receive international payments through platforms like Payoneer, Wise, Skrill, and local wallets such as JazzCash or EasyPaisa. Since PayPal is not officially available in Pakistan, these services help freelancers withdraw earnings from global clients and freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.

9,423   1,263 Read Article

Latest

CPKXFreelancing+1

Best Remote Jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 and How to Get Them

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best remote jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 include software developer ($30,000-$100,000+/year), UI/UX designer, data analyst, cybersecurity analyst, video editor, digital marketer, and virtual assistant. Most need only skills, not a degree. Find work on Upwork, LinkedIn, Toptal, Turing, and remote-first company career pages, and get paid via Payoneer or Wise.

1,758   1,505 Read Article

Featured

TechnologyCPKX+4

Daniyal Abbas: From Microsoft Engineer to hytGenX Founder

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Daniyal Abbas is a technology entrepreneur and former Microsoft engineer who founded hytGenX to help businesses implement practical AI solutions, automation systems, and scalable software platforms that improve operational efficiency.

706   27 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyPakistan+3

Fiverr, Upwork Decline: What It Means for Pakistan Freelancers

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI is transforming freelancing by automating basic tasks like design, writing, and coding. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are seeing slowdowns as clients shift to AI tools. However, freelancers who adapt by offering strategy, problem-solving, and high-value services can still grow and succeed.

3,532   1,147 Read Article

Latest

EducationResearchTechnology+4

Future of AI, Remote Work & Freelancing in Pakistan: Complete Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan’s digital economy is being reshaped by AI, remote work, and freelancing. Professionals with skills in AI, data science, digital marketing, and remote collaboration are accessing high-paying global jobs, while startups and freelancers contribute significantly to IT exports and the growing gig economy.

3,134   1,677 Read Article

Latest

EducationResearchCP+3

How Pakistani Agencies Scale to Global Success

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Scaling an agency in Pakistan requires strong systems, niche positioning, and effective client acquisition. Successful agencies move from freelancing to structured teams, focus on value-based pricing, and build global client relationships. With the right strategy, Pakistani agencies can compete and grow internationally.

2,915   2,661 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+4

How Pakistani Women Are Winning in Tech and Freelancing

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani women are increasingly succeeding in tech and freelancing, often earning equal or slightly higher hourly rates than men, reversing the global gender gap. Though women make up only 15-25% of freelancers, their participation is rising fast, driven by remote work's flexibility, government laptop and training schemes, and growing digital access across the country.

1,198   1,941 Read Article

Featured

TechnologyPakistanCP+6

Husein Mustafa: Building Pakistan's Largest Agency-Owner Community

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Husein Mustafa is a Pakistani entrepreneur, co-founder of Reality Cheque, one of Pakistan's largest communities for digital agency owners, and of RC DFY and TSG. Starting in sales through cold calling in 2018, he built expertise in outbound systems, then created a community and coaching ecosystem helping agencies move from inconsistent growth to predictable revenue.

2,761   981 Read Article

Featured

CPKXTechnology+5

Ali Ashfaq: From Data Engineer to Founder of DataRopes.ai

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Ali Ashfaq is a Lahore-based data engineer and the founder and CEO of DataRopes.ai, a company helping global businesses turn raw data into decision-making advantage. With nearly a decade across TenX, Systems Limited, and Coca-Cola CCI, and having engineered Pakistan's TASDEEQ credit bureau platform, he builds modern data architectures, pipelines, and AI systems for international clients.

2,913   2,109 Read Article

Featured

TechnologyPakistanCP+7

Saad Munir: "The Agency Guy" Scaling Global Agencies From Lahore

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Saad Munir, known as "The Agency Guy," is a Pakistani entrepreneur from Lahore and the CEO and founder of HexaClicks, a white-label fulfillment company helping digital agencies scale. With around 15 years in the global agency space, he champions a "systems beat hustle" philosophy and hosts the podcast SynQ with Saad, mentoring founders across the industry.

1,917   1,258 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyPakistan+4

Pakistan Gets Its First NVIDIA H200 AI Chips: Why It's a Big Deal

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Indus Cloud (Master Group), with Cisco, launched Pakistan's first AI GPU cluster powered by NVIDIA H200 chips in August 2026, bringing brand-new H200 GPUs onto Pakistani soil for the first time. These high-end chips power AI training and large language models, giving local businesses, startups, and universities in-country access to world-class AI computing.

2,284   1,136 Read Article

Latest

CPKXFeatured

The $700 Billion AI Arms Race: What It Means for Pakistan

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In 2026, the global AI infrastructure race reached staggering scale: hyperscalers are spending nearly $700 billion on data centers, Anthropic committed roughly $71 billion to compute, and TSMC raised US investment to $265 billion. Driven by a persistent chip shortage, compute has become AI's defining battleground, widening the gap between a few nations and everyone else.

1,812   2,453 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+7

How to Earn Your First Income With AI Tools in Pakistan

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To earn your first income with AI tools in Pakistan: pick one skill (writing, design, or video), learn a free AI tool like ChatGPT or Canva, package a simple service, create samples, offer it on Fiverr or locally, and set up Payoneer for payments. Start with free tools, avoid instant-income scams, and focus on real value.

1,781   1,609 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyPakistan+6

Raast Will Process More Money Than Pakistan's Entire Economy in 2026

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Raast is Pakistan's instant payment system by the State Bank, enabling free, real-time money transfers between people, businesses, and government. In 2026 it's projected to process over $500 billion, exceeding Pakistan's estimated $452 billion GDP. It has grown roughly 162 times since 2022, and a new consent-based "pull payment" feature is launching soon.

1,313   2,377 Read Article

Latest

CPKXNews

The Brain Drain Debate: Should Pakistani Engineers Stay or Leave?

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The brain drain debate weighs individual opportunity against national loss. Around 11,000 engineers left Pakistan in 2024–25 seeking stability and higher pay, while critics warn of massive productivity losses. Supporters cite record remittances as "brain gain." The honest answer isn't stay or leave, but building a Pakistan where staying is a real choice, not a sacrifice.

1,440   1,069 Read Article

Latest

BusinessCPKX+1

How to Start Selling Online in Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To start selling online in Pakistan, choose a channel: Daraz for instant reach and traffic, your own Shopify or WooCommerce store for control and branding, or social selling (Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp) for the lowest-cost start. Pakistan's e-commerce market exceeds PKR 1.2 trillion, most orders come from mobile, and cash on delivery still dominates.

1,600   1,274 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+6

Pakistan's Freelance Dream Is Changing: The Next 5 Years

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's freelance economy is entering a K-shaped split: as AI automates commodity work like basic writing and data entry, low-skill freelancers face collapsing demand, while specialized freelancers who use AI and offer human judgment earn more than ever. The era of selling cheap execution is ending; the future rewards those who build and specialize.

2,963   1,133 Read Article

Latest

CPKXTechnology

The Skills Pakistani Coders Need to Survive the AI Coding Era

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To survive the AI coding era, Pakistani developers must shift from writing code to directing and verifying it. Key skills include system design, critically reviewing AI-generated code, effective prompting, debugging, cloud and deployment knowledge, strong fundamentals, and communication. AI now writes nearly 50% of code, but only 29% of developers trust its accuracy, human judgment is the differentiator.

2,194   1,984 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Get a Full-Time Remote Job From Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

A remote job is full-time salaried employment with a foreign company, offering stable monthly income and benefits, while freelancing means variable project-based income from multiple clients. To land a remote job from Pakistan, build in-demand skills, create a portfolio, optimize LinkedIn, apply through vetted platforms like Toptal, Turing, and remote-first companies, and register with SECP/FBR for taxes.

2,793   884 Read Article

Latest

ResearchTechnologyPakistan+4

Why Most Pakistani Startups Struggle to Raise Money

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Most Pakistani startups struggle to raise funding due to a "progression problem": too few local investors, thin follow-on capital, and cautious money that bets on founders over ideas. Pakistan's startups raised about $1 billion since 2015, versus India's $160 billion. Founders can turn to non-dilutive grants like the Pakistan Startup Fund, revenue, and warm introductions.

1,377   2,183 Read Article

Latest

CPKXMobile & Gadgets+1

Best Budget Smartphones in Pakistan Under PKR 50,000 (2026)

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best budget smartphones under PKR 50,000 in Pakistan (2026) include the Infinix Hot 60 Pro for gaming (144Hz AMOLED), the Tecno Spark 40 Pro for balanced value, the Redmi Note 14 as the safest all-rounder, and the itel S26 Ultra for its premium display. Always verify PTA approval and check the IMEI before buying.

3,223   1,411 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanGovernment+6

Pakistan Launches NAAI: 7 AI Hubs and 560 Startups

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The National Artificial Intelligence Advancement Initiative (NAAI) is Pakistan's plan to establish seven AI Hubs, in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit, to incubate 560 startups over two years and give non-dilutive seed grants to 150. Launched under the National AI Policy, it focuses on healthcare, agriculture, fintech, and more.

2,739   2,306 Read Article

Latest

CPKXTechnology

Pakistan IT Exports Hit $4.6B as Freelancers Cross $1 Billion

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's IT exports reached a record $4.6 billion in fiscal year 2025-26, a 21% increase from $3.814 billion, according to State Bank data. Freelancers crossed $1 billion for the first time, up 50% year-on-year and contributing about 25% of total IT exports. The result met the lower target but missed the $5 billion goal.

1,138   1,699 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Land a Remote Job With a Foreign Company From Pakistan

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To land a remote job with a foreign company from Pakistan, build a strong portfolio, target remote-first companies (GitLab, Automattic, Zapier) and vetted platforms (Toptal, Turing, Deel), apply as a contractor, prepare for time-zone overlap, and get paid via Payoneer, Wise, or Deel. A degree is rarely required, skills and portfolio matter most.

1,907   1,380 Read Article

Latest

BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Start Selling Online in Pakistan 2026: A Beginner's Guide

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To start selling online in Pakistan, choose a platform (Daraz for instant reach, Shopify/WooCommerce for your own brand, or Facebook/Instagram/WhatsApp for social selling), pick a product with real demand, set up payments via JazzCash, easypaisa, or cash-on-delivery, arrange delivery through a courier, and list with quality photos. Pakistan's e-commerce market exceeds PKR 1.2 trillion in 2026.

1,850   948 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyCPKX+3

WhatsApp's New Features in August 2026: What's Rolling Out

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

WhatsApp's 2026 updates include a new username system for more privacy, @all mentions and upgraded polls for group chats, dual accounts on iPhone, cross-platform chat transfer between Android and iPhone, AI photo editing and writing tools, voice chats in groups, and sharing music to Status. Most roll out gradually worldwide.

2,562   1,170 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanGovernment Initiatives+1

FIA's AI Airport Profiling: Security vs Privacy Explained

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is using AI-assisted profiling and a Risk Analysis Unit to identify high-risk passengers and curb human smuggling, analyzing travel history, destination, and visa type. In "high-risk" cases it may examine mobile phones. Legal experts argue phone searches without a formal criminal inquiry may exceed FIA authority and infringe constitutional privacy rights.

1,849   1,288 Read Article

Latest

CPKXMobile & Gadgets

Best Budget Smartphones in Pakistan 2026: A Buyer's Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best budget smartphones in Pakistan for 2026 come from Infinix, Tecno, Redmi, Realme, and Samsung. Under Rs 30,000, prioritize battery and storage; under Rs 40,000, expect 120Hz displays and better cameras; under Rs 50,000, near-flagship features. Always confirm PTA approval, aim for 6GB+ RAM, 128GB storage, and a 5000mAh battery.

1,432   865 Read Article

Latest

CPKXGovernment Initiatives+1

Pakistan's Cashless Surge: 88% of Payments Now Digital

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's digital payments are surging: per the State Bank's FY2024-25 review, retail payments reached 9.1 billion transactions worth PKR 612 trillion, with digital channels now 88% of the total. Raast, the free instant payment system, more than doubled and serves 48 million users. Yet cash still dominates due to a persistent "sticky cash culture."

2,268   1,918 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+1

Silicon Valley's Plug and Play Is Coming to Pakistan

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Plug and Play Tech Center, a leading Silicon Valley startup accelerator, signed a Letter of Intent in July 2026 to establish operations in Islamabad and Karachi. It aims to accelerate up to 300 startups from Pakistani universities and connect them with over 600 global corporate partners, helping them raise investment and expand internationally while staying based in Pakistan.

3,001   2,452 Read Article

Latest

TechnologyPakistanCP+1

Why Pakistan Halted the Ufone-Telenor 'e&' Rebrand

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In July 2026, Pakistan's federal government halted the proposed rebranding of the merged Ufone-Telenor entity to "e&," the global brand of UAE-based Etisalat Group. Concerns included removing the word "Pakistan" from a strategically significant operator's identity, whether the Ufone board had authority to approve it, and roughly $800 million in outstanding dues. A legal review is underway.

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EducationTechnologyCP+4

Pakistan Launches 7 AI Hubs to Incubate 560 Startups

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The National Artificial Intelligence Advancement Initiative (NAAI) is Pakistan's plan, launched July 2026 by MoITT under the National AI Policy, to establish seven AI Hubs in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. It aims to incubate 560 AI startups over two years and provide 150 non-dilutive seed grants.

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TechnologyPakistanCP+4

KonnectX Karachi 2026: Why Premium Networking Matters

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

KonnectX Karachi 2026 is a premium networking conference by Connected Pakistan, held Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Innovista Indus, DHA Karachi. It brings together 200+ founders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and investors for keynotes, panels, AI and business insights, awards, and an exclusive networking dinner aboard the Ocean Dream II Cruise.

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TechnologyCPKX+1

Why Pakistani Engineers Are Leaving and What It Means

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan is experiencing large-scale skilled emigration, with official data showing roughly 11,000 engineers, 5,000 doctors, and 13,000 accountants leaving between 2024 and 2025. Drivers include economic instability, low pay, limited opportunity, and better prospects abroad. While remittances (over $38 billion in 2024-25) cushion the economy, critics warn the long-term loss of talent and innovation is harder to replace.

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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+4

Pakistan Joins WAICO: What the New AI Alliance Means

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan became a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) on July 16, 2026, when Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the agreement in Shanghai. The China-proposed body, joined by around 29-31 countries, aims to promote international AI cooperation and bridge the global AI divide, particularly for developing nations.

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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+3

Pakistan Launches Its Largest AI Data Centre: What It Means

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Sky47 Karakoram-01 is Pakistan's largest AI-ready data centre, inaugurated on July 24, 2026 in Islamabad. Built by Mari Technologies with China's ZTE, the 8.5-megawatt, Tier III/IV facility provides high-performance computing for AI, cloud, and secure data hosting. Its sovereign cloud keeps critical data within Pakistan, with similar centres planned for Karachi and Lahore.

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TechnologyPakistanCP+4

How Pakistani Women Are Winning in Tech and Freelancing

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani women are increasingly succeeding in tech and freelancing, often earning equal or slightly higher hourly rates than men, reversing the global gender gap. Though women make up only 15-25% of freelancers, their participation is rising fast, driven by remote work's flexibility, government laptop and training schemes, and growing digital access across the country.

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TechnologyGovernmentCP+4

Pakistan's IT Ministry Plans a 10-Year Digital Roadmap

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT) is developing a 10-year digital transformation roadmap to modernize digital governance and strengthen the digital economy. Announced in July 2026, it will be implemented in three phases, short term (0-2 years), medium term (3-5 years), and long term (6-10 years), as part of a broader ministry restructuring.

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TechnologyCPKX+3

How to Register as a Freelancer With PSEB (2026 Guide)

Syed - Connected Pakistan

To register as a freelancer with PSEB, visit the official PSEB portal, select freelancer registration, create an account, and submit your CNIC, NTN, and proof of foreign income. Pay the registration fee (around PKR 500 per year for freelancers). Once verified, you receive a PSEB certificate, and your IT export tax drops from 1% to 0.25%.

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TechnologyCPKX+2

Why AI Companies Are Now Renting Power From Rivals

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Meta is reportedly in early-stage talks to lease AI computing power to Anthropic in a deal potentially worth up to $10 billion over two years. Anthropic proposed it in June 2026. The talks reflect a severe industry-wide compute shortage, and would mark Meta's entry into cloud computing. No agreement has been reached.

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TechnologyPakistanCP+3

PM Launches Robotics Program and $20 Million Venture Fund

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

At the Indus RAS Expo on July 23, 2026, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched the Spark and Elevate Program to promote robotics and autonomous systems, and announced a $20 million Pakistan Venture Fund to support innovation, research, and technology startups. The goal is turning research into commercial technologies and creating high-quality jobs.

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TechnologyPakistanGovernment+6

FIA and Meta Deal Could Cut Cybercrime Cases to Days

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency has established a direct official channel with Meta Asia Pacific to speed up investigations into organised cybercrime, online fraud, and hate speech. Meta formally recognised the FIA's Single Point of Contact at the National Command and Control Centre (NC3). Response times for lawful requests are expected to fall from months to days.

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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+4

Indus RAS Expo 2026: Pakistan's First National Robotics Show

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Indus RAS Expo 2026 is Pakistan's first national exhibition dedicated to Robotics and Autonomous Systems, held July 22-23, 2026 at the Pak-China Friendship Centre, Islamabad. Hosted by Ignite (National Technology Fund) under the Ministry of IT, with NCRA and NUST E&ME, it features RoboWars, drone demos, startup showcases, and free public registration.

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CPKXGovernment Initiatives+1

PTA and Meta Sign Deal on Youth Online Safety in Pakistan

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Meta signed a Letter of Intent in July 2026 to promote youth online safety, digital literacy, and digital well-being. The framework covers capacity building, policy dialogue, awareness campaigns, and sharing global best practices, plus engagement on online content governance and regulatory compliance across Pakistan.

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TechnologyPakistanGovernment+5

Pakistan's PM Launches AI System to Track Every Order

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

PMOS (Prime Minister's Office System) is Pakistan's first AI-powered government platform, launched on July 21, 2026. It records, communicates, monitors, and tracks every directive issued by the Prime Minister, from issuance through implementation, verified completion, and post-completion review, replacing paper-based workflows with digital processes across ministries.

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BusinessTechnologyCP+3

Pakistan's 5G Fix: New Spectrum and the Fiber Problem

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan has assigned E-Band spectrum to mobile operators to provide high-capacity wireless backhaul for 5G. The move addresses a key bottleneck: only about 17.9% of Pakistan's mobile towers are connected by fiber. Operators must reach 20% fiber-to-the-site by 2028, rising to 35% by 2035, under their 5G licence conditions.

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BusinessResearchTechnology+8

Pakistan and Japan Join Forces on AI and Tech Talent

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan and Japan agreed to deepen cooperation in AI, Web3, and digital technologies at a July 2026 startup event in Tokyo, organized by Pakistan's Embassy and the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan (AWAJ). A key driver: Japan faces a shortage of hundreds of thousands of IT engineers by 2030, making Pakistan's engineering talent a strategic asset.

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TechnologyCPKX+2

Social Media Automation: What's Safe vs What Gets You Banned

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Safe social media automation uses official tools like Meta Business Suite, Buffer, or Hootsuite for scheduling and analytics. Risky automation, mass-posting to groups, bulk auto-commenting, fake engagement, scraping, and detection-evasion tools, violates platform rules and can get your account permanently banned. The rule of thumb: automate your own workflow, never fake human activity.

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CPKXHow-To / Tutorials+2

How to Monetize Facebook in Pakistan 2026: Full Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Yes, Facebook monetization is available in Pakistan. Creators can earn through the Facebook Content Monetization Program (in-stream ads, Reels), Facebook Stars, fan subscriptions, and branded content. In-stream ads typically require 5,000-10,000 followers and 60,000-600,000 watch minutes in 60 days. Payouts reach Pakistani creators via Payoneer or bank transfer.

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BusinessPakistanCP+3

AI Jobs in Pakistan 2026: Salaries, Skills, and How to Start

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI jobs are among Pakistan's fastest-growing and highest-paying tech careers in 2026. Top roles include machine learning engineer, data scientist, AI engineer, and NLP specialist. Local salaries range from about PKR 50,000-80,000/month for entry level to PKR 200,000+ for senior roles, while remote work for global clients can pay $1,000-3,000+ monthly.

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PakistanCPKX+2

Dr. Samar Mubarakmand: Pakistan's Quiet Scientific Giant

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Dr. Samar Mubarakmand is a renowned Pakistani nuclear physicist, born in 1942, known for his research in gamma spectroscopy and building the Charged Particle Accelerator at PINSTECH. Oxford-educated, he was a pioneer of fibre-optic technology in Pakistan, founding chairman of NESCOM, and today leads mineral exploration as chairman of the Punjab Mineral Company.

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TechnologyGovernmentCP+3

Pakistan's AI Readiness Ranking: Behind Its Neighbors

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan ranks 8th out of 17 countries in South and Central Asia on the Oxford Insights Government AI Readiness Index, placing it below India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The index measures government vision, digital infrastructure, and data systems. Pakistan has made progress but lags due to gaps in infrastructure, data systems, and implementation.

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BusinessTechnologyCP+3

Pakistan's 5G in 2026: Live in 22 Cities, But Is It Working?

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's 5G is live in 22 cities with 449 active tower sites as of mid-2026, and 3.81 million 5G-ready phones are registered. However, 5G currently runs on existing 4G towers with no new infrastructure yet, so users still face slow speeds and dropped calls. New 5G infrastructure is expected over the next six to eight months.

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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+6

Pakistan's IT Exports Hit Record $4.5 Billion in 2026

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's IT exports reached a record $4.5 billion in FY2025-26, up about 29% from $3.475 billion the previous year. The growth was driven by software development, business process outsourcing (BPO), SaaS, and gaming, with Pakistani firms notably expanding into Asia-Pacific markets like Japan and Singapore beyond traditional US and European clients.

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CPKXTechnology

ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini: Best AI for Pakistanis 2026

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

For Pakistani professionals in 2026, the best AI depends on your work. Claude leads for writing quality and coding, ChatGPT offers the broadest features and ecosystem, and Gemini is best for research and Google Workspace users. All three cost about $20/month for paid tiers, with capable free versions. Many professionals use a combination.

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