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🇵🇰 Connected Magazine by Connected Pakistan

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Explore powerful stories, expert insights, and real journeys from freelancers, entrepreneurs, and tech leaders shaping Pakistan’s digital economy through Connected Pakistan.

Latest Articles

Pakistan Launches 7 AI Hubs to Incubate 560 Startups
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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.
2,258   2,112 Read Article
KonnectX Karachi 2026: Why Premium Networking Matters
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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.
1,752   2,089 Read Article
Why Pakistani Engineers Are Leaving and What It Means
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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.
1,290   848 Read Article
Pakistan Joins WAICO: What the New AI Alliance Means
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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.
2,318   2,255 Read Article
Pakistan Launches Its Largest AI Data Centre: What It Means
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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.
4,166   1,699 Read Article
How Pakistani Women Are Winning in Tech and Freelancing
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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.
1,331   1,941 Read Article
Pakistan's IT Ministry Plans a 10-Year Digital Roadmap
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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.
3,157   1,551 Read Article
How to Register as a Freelancer With PSEB (2026 Guide)
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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%.
2,674   1,005 Read Article
Why AI Companies Are Now Renting Power From Rivals
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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.
2,660   1,536 Read Article
PM Launches Robotics Program and $20 Million Venture Fund
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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.
2,344   894 Read Article
FIA and Meta Deal Could Cut Cybercrime Cases to Days
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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.
3,390   1,252 Read Article
Indus RAS Expo 2026: Pakistan's First National Robotics Show
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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.
2,890   2,119 Read Article

Featured Articles

Get Hired as a Full Employee by a Foreign Company, From Pakistan. Here's How EOR Works
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Get Hired as a Full Employee by a Foreign Company, From Pakistan. Here's How EOR Works
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
An Employer of Record (EOR) lets a foreign company hire a Pakistani as a full-time employee, with salary, benefits, and a proper contract, without setting up a local office. A third-party EOR provider (like Deel or Remote) legally employs you on the company's behalf, handling payroll and compliance. It's a fast-growing alternative to freelancing.
2,789   1,225 Read Article
Pakistan Beats the UK, Germany, and China in Tech Talent. One Thing Holds It Back
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Pakistan Beats the UK, Germany, and China in Tech Talent. One Thing Holds It Back
Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan ranks 16th of 193 countries in the 2026 Global Outsourcing Talent Index, ahead of the UK, Germany, France, China, and Vietnam, driven by top scores in cost (97/100) and talent (8th globally). But its digital infrastructure scores just 30/100. Fixing this single weakness could lift Pakistan to 11th globally.
2,969   1,971 Read Article
The Ball at the World Cup Was Made in Pakistan. Here's the Business Story Behind Sialkot
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The Ball at the World Cup Was Made in Pakistan. Here's the Business Story Behind Sialkot
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Sialkot, Pakistan produces around 70% of the world's hand-stitched footballs, exporting roughly 40 million a year to brands like Adidas, Nike, and Puma. Local firm Forward Sports has made the official FIFA World Cup match ball for four consecutive tournaments (2014-2026). The industry earns Pakistan hundreds of millions in exports annually.
1,404   975 Read Article
Every AI Prompt Drinks Water. What That Means for Thirsty Pakistan
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Every AI Prompt Drinks Water. What That Means for Thirsty Pakistan
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
AI consumes significant water, mainly to cool the data centers running it. Estimates vary widely (from under 2ml to over 150ml per query), but aggregate use is large: Google reported around 6.4 billion gallons in 2023. For water-stressed Pakistan, this matters as the country considers data-center ambitions amid an already severe water crisis.
2,638   827 Read Article
Free Google AI for Pakistani Students: Inside the New Google-Pakistan Deal
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Free Google AI for Pakistani Students: Inside the New Google-Pakistan Deal
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan and Google signed an agreement to expand tech cooperation, giving Pakistani students free one-year access to Google AI tools including Gemini and AI Plus. The deal also establishes an AI Center of Excellence in Islamabad, expands Google Career Certificates, and applies AI to agriculture and small businesses, aiming to boost digital skills and IT exports.
3,022   1,118 Read Article
Pakistani Freelancers Just Earned $175M in a Month. Here's How to Keep More of Yours
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Pakistani Freelancers Just Earned $175M in a Month. Here's How to Keep More of Yours
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistani freelancers earned a record $175 million in July 2026, up 45.5% year-on-year. To keep more of their earnings, freelancers can register with PSEB to pay just 0.25% tax on foreign income (versus 1% unregistered, or up to 45% otherwise), provided they receive payments through formal banking channels and meet remittance conditions.
1,695   1,510 Read Article
Ufone and Telenor Just Became One. What It Means for Your SIM, Bill, and Signal
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Ufone and Telenor Just Became One. What It Means for Your SIM, Bill, and Signal
Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Telenor Pakistan merged into Ufone's parent company PTML on July 1, 2026, ceasing to exist as a separate entity. The combined operator (~72 million subscribers) becomes Pakistan's second-largest, reshaping the market from four major players to three. For now, existing Telenor and Ufone SIMs keep working normally, with regulators imposing conditions to protect consumers and competition.
2,333   840 Read Article
AI Just Started Solving Problems Humans Couldn't. What It Means for Pakistan
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AI Just Started Solving Problems Humans Couldn't. What It Means for Pakistan
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
In August 2026, AI crossed a threshold from completing tasks to contributing original, verifiable research, an AI system reportedly solved 10 long-unsolved math and computer-science problems with checkable proofs. Combined with AI assistants crossing a billion users each and collapsing costs, it signals AI becoming a genuine tool for discovery, with real opportunities and challenges for Pakistan.
3,198   1,078 Read Article
Temu's Prices Exploded in Pakistan. Was Taxing It Smart or a Mistake?
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Temu's Prices Exploded in Pakistan. Was Taxing It Smart or a Mistake?
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan's 2025-26 budget introduced a 5% digital presence tax and higher customs on foreign e-commerce platforms like Temu and AliExpress, ending their duty-free advantage. Temu prices then surged up to 300%, partly from the tax and partly its own "price buffering." The move aims to protect local sellers and capture revenue, but raises costs for consumers.
3,060   2,024 Read Article
ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini in 2026: Which AI Should Pakistanis Actually Use?
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ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini in 2026: Which AI Should Pakistanis Actually Use?
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
In 2026, there's no single "best" AI assistant, the right one depends on your task. Broadly: ChatGPT is a strong all-rounder with the widest features; Claude excels at writing and coding; and Gemini integrates best with Google tools. All offer free tiers usable in Pakistan. The smart approach is matching the tool to the job.
3,234   2,221 Read Article
Innoventure Club '26: A Wilderness Reset in Swat for Pakistan's Tech Community
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Innoventure Club '26: A Wilderness Reset in Swat for Pakistan's Tech Community
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Innoventure Club '26 is a 4-day wilderness and tech experience in Swat Valley by Connected Pakistan and TechTrip, held 18–21 September 2026 at Taip Banda. Designed for developers, freelancers, founders, and creators, it combines hiking, waterfalls, bonfires, and Basant festivities with mentorship and workshops — an off-the-grid reset from screen fatigue, starting from Rs 60,000.
2,590   901 Read Article
BISP Digital Wallets: How Pakistan Is Banking 10 Million Poor Women
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BISP Digital Wallets: How Pakistan Is Banking 10 Million Poor Women
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan's Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is shifting payments for over 10 million poor women to CNIC-linked digital wallets in 2026, aiming for 100% digital payments. With 8 million+ free SIMs distributed and an interoperable system allowing withdrawals at any partner agent, it ends long queues and middlemen deductions, a major financial-inclusion and women's-empowerment step.
2,455   1,706 Read Article

Technology

(6 articles) View All
5G in Pakistan: Big Promises, Bigger Connectivity Gap
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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.
2,196   1,268 Read Article
5G Is Finally Coming to Pakistan. Here's When You'll Actually Get It
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5G Is Finally Coming to Pakistan. Here's When You'll Actually Get It
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan is close to launching 5G: the spectrum auction is expected soon, after which telecom operators need roughly 5-6 months to build infrastructure before 5G services begin in major cities. So realistic 5G availability is likely several months away, starting in key urban areas. You don't need to rush to buy a 5G phone immediately.
1,485   1,023 Read Article
A Unicorn With Pakistani Roots Just Emerged. But Is Fasset Really "Pakistan's Unicorn"?
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A Unicorn With Pakistani Roots Just Emerged. But Is Fasset Really "Pakistan's Unicorn"?
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Fasset, a UAE-based stablecoin fintech co-founded by Lahore-born Daniel Ahmed, reached a $1 billion valuation in August 2026 after a $68 million Series C led by SBI Group. While celebrated as a "Pakistani unicorn," it's more accurately a global fintech with Pakistani roots, its major Pakistan plans (real estate tokenization) are promising but still largely aspirational.
2,680   1,315 Read Article
Abdur Rehman: Building Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Through Innovation
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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.
3,605   993 Read Article
Afroze Khan: From Byteify’s Collapse to Revenue Incarnate. The Pakistani Operator Quietly Rebuilding How Service Businesses Sell
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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.
2,403   2,371 Read Article
AI Is Killing Entry-Level Tech Jobs in Pakistan. So How Does Anyone Start Now
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AI Is Killing Entry-Level Tech Jobs in Pakistan. So How Does Anyone Start Now
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
New P@SHA data shows AI has cut entry-level tech hiring in Pakistan by around 25% since 2024, with basic writing, data entry, and junior coding roles most exposed. But demand is rising for AI engineering, cloud, and cybersecurity skills. The entry-level "ladder" is changing, newcomers must now start with AI-augmented, higher-value skills rather than routine tasks.
1,927   1,803 Read Article

Freelancing

(8 articles) View All
Ali Ashfaq: From Data Engineer to Founder of DataRopes.ai
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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.
3,078   2,109 Read Article
Best Payment Gateways for Pakistani Freelancers in 2026
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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.
11,962   1,263 Read Article
Best Remote Jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 and How to Get Them
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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.
2,751   1,505 Read Article
Connected Pakistan Off the Record: Where Pakistan's Business Leaders Meet Behind Closed Doors
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Connected Pakistan Off the Record: Where Pakistan's Business Leaders Meet Behind Closed Doors
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
"Connected Pakistan Off the Record" is a new series of exclusive, invite-only industry meetups by Connected Pakistan and The Hive, held in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Designed for meaningful conversations beyond the stage, they bring together CEOs, founders, startups, agency owners, top freelancers, and changemakers to build genuine connections and explore collaborations.
1,308   1,035 Read Article
Daniyal Abbas: From Microsoft Engineer to hytGenX Founder
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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.
793   27 Read Article
Fiverr, Upwork Decline: What It Means for Pakistan Freelancers
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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.
4,094   1,147 Read Article
From an Ice Stall to a Fast-Growing Laptop Brand: The Story of Master Faheem
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From an Ice Stall to a Fast-Growing Laptop Brand: The Story of Master Faheem
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Master Muhammad Faheem Imtiaz is the founder and CEO of Techno X Laptops, a fast-growing Pakistani pre-owned laptop brand. Raised in a small town helping run his family's ice-selling and repair businesses, he launched Techno X in early 2023 with minimal investment, building trust through a pioneering 100-day warranty while working a government job simultaneously.
2,033   1,914 Read Article
From YouTube Tutorials to a Creative Brand: Areesha Atif's Story
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From YouTube Tutorials to a Creative Brand: Areesha Atif's Story
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Areesha Atif is a Karachi-based graphic designer and the founder of Areesha GFX, a creative brand she built after teaching herself Photoshop through YouTube in 2022. By her own account, she has completed 750+ projects for local and international clients, and now trains other women in freelancing through her Al Fatimah Online Academy.
2,772   1,313 Read Article

All Articles

RedHook Malware: How to Protect Your Android and Bank
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RedHook Malware: How to Protect Your Android and Bank
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
RedHook is an upgraded Android banking malware identified by Group-IB that can steal banking credentials and take deep control of infected phones. It spreads through fake apps downloaded from links sent by scammers posing as banks or officials. The best protection is to only install apps from Google Play and never side-load APKs from unknown links.
1,677   1,655 Read Article
Meta Pulls Its AI Photo Tool After Privacy Backlash
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Meta Pulls Its AI Photo Tool After Privacy Backlash
Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Meta pulled its Muse Image AI feature from Instagram on July 10, 2026, days after launch, following backlash over privacy and consent. The feature let anyone generate AI images from public Instagram accounts by tagging them, and was on by default. Meta admitted it "missed the mark." Muse Image remains available in WhatsApp and the Meta AI app.
2,421   1,100 Read Article
Pakistan Builds a Shariah Framework for Crypto: What to Know
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Pakistan Builds a Shariah Framework for Crypto: What to Know
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan's crypto regulator, PVARA, is developing a dual framework that assesses digital assets from both regulatory and Shariah perspectives. After a June 2026 fatwa declared crypto purchases impermissible, PVARA chairman Bilal bin Saqib met scholar Mufti Taqi Usmani, arguing that different digital assets need separate technical and religious evaluation rather than one blanket ruling.
1,916   2,120 Read Article
Apple vs OpenAI Lawsuit: The AI Hardware War Explained
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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.
2,819   2,386 Read Article
Pakistan's $1 Billion AI Plan: What It Means for You by 2030
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Pakistan's $1 Billion AI Plan: What It Means for You by 2030
Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan has pledged $1 billion in public investment in artificial intelligence by 2030. The plan funds sovereign compute infrastructure, an AI curriculum in schools, 1,000 fully funded AI PhD scholarships, and training for one million non-IT professionals. Announced at Indus AI Week 2026, it aims to turn Pakistan from an IT-services provider into a regional AI hub.
2,491   2,339 Read Article
Perween Rahman: The Hero Who Gave Karachi's Poor Power
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Perween Rahman: The Hero Who Gave Karachi's Poor Power
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Perween Rahman (1957-2013) was a Pakistani architect and social activist who led the Orangi Pilot Project, helping millions in Karachi's informal settlements build their own sanitation, schools, and housing. An outspoken critic of Karachi's land mafias, she was assassinated on 13 March 2013. Google honored her with a Doodle in 2022.
2,042   2,074 Read Article
Best Remote Jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 and How to Get Them
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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.
2,751   1,505 Read Article
iPhone 17 Price in Pakistan 2026: Full Guide + PTA Tax
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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.
7,134   2,107 Read Article
Ali Javan: The Forgotten Genius Who Built the Gas Laser
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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.
1,572   2,396 Read Article
Muse Spark 1.1: Meta's New AI at a Quarter of the Price
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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.
1,941   1,428 Read Article
Is Crypto Haram? What Mufti Taqi Usmani's Fatwa Says
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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.
4,996   2,460 Read Article
Apple's $30 Billion Chip Deal: What It Means Globally
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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.
3,127   1,206 Read Article
How to Get an eSIM in Pakistan 2026: Complete Guide
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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.
4,560   1,453 Read Article
Pakistan's PM Cloud Program: Up to $13,500 for Startups
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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.
2,397   2,468 Read Article
Why Forbes Calls Pakistan a Fintech Rising Star in 2026
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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.
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Only 8.7% of Pakistanis Own a Computer: The Real Gap
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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.
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Pakistan Orders Government Data to Be Hosted Locally
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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.
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Pakistan's Call Centre Exports Cross $300 Million on AI
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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.
2,455   2,021 Read Article
Pakistani AI Startups Are Winning a16z and YC Backing
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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.
2,410   1,478 Read Article
Telenor Pakistan Merges Into Ufone 5G: What It Means
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Telenor Pakistan Merges Into Ufone 5G: What It Means
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
On July 1, 2026, Telenor Pakistan formally merged into Pak Telecom Mobile Limited (PTML), operating as Ufone 5G, after Islamabad High Court approval. Telenor ceased to exist as a separate company. The combined operator now holds about 35.9% of Pakistan's mobile market, becoming the country's second-largest, with services continuing for existing customers.
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Pakistan's Biggest AI Centre Is Coming to Karachi in 2026
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Pakistan's Biggest AI Centre Is Coming to Karachi in 2026
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Karachi is being positioned as Pakistan's primary AI hub in 2026. The Sindh government announced the country's largest AI centre, the upcoming Sindh IT Tower, the Quantum Global Data Centre, and Karachi Technopolis. Together, these projects aim to anchor AI infrastructure, attract investment, and create tech jobs across the city.
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Pakistan Govt Launches ChatGPT-Style AI to Track Ministries
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Pakistan Govt Launches ChatGPT-Style AI to Track Ministries
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan's government is launching a ChatGPT-style AI system, developed by the Pakistan Digital Authority, to monitor ministry performance and improve coordination. The Prime Minister's Office System (PMOS) lets the PM's office send directives instantly and track progress on one dashboard, while a sovereign GPT research tool helps officials search past records and decisions quickly.
2,907   2,121 Read Article
Is AI Killing Freelancing in Pakistan? The Honest Truth
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Is AI Killing Freelancing in Pakistan? The Honest Truth
Syed - Connected Pakistan
AI is disrupting freelancing in Pakistan as platforms like Fiverr and Upwork decline. Fiverr lost over 60% of its stock value in a year, and businesses increasingly use AI instead of hiring for basic tasks. But freelancers who learn AI tools, specialize in high-value work, and build their own products can still thrive.
3,003   1,979 Read Article
Sualeh Asif The Pakistani Behind SpaceX's Cursor Deal
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Sualeh Asif The Pakistani Behind SpaceX's Cursor Deal
Syed - Connected Pakistan
Sualeh Asif is a Karachi-born co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Cursor, the AI coding tool built by Anysphere. In 2026, SpaceX agreed to acquire Anysphere in a $60 billion all-stock deal, expected to close in Q3 2026. Asif's stake is reportedly worth around $2.7 billion, making him a Pakistani-origin billionaire.
2,294   1,782 Read Article
Why Pakistan Must Move Beyond Freelancing to Sovereign AI
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Why Pakistan Must Move Beyond Freelancing to Sovereign AI
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Sovereign AI means Pakistan owns its AI model weights, training data, and inference infrastructure as national assets that earn export revenue. Tech experts propose a five-layer AI stack, energy, chips, infrastructure, models, and applications, built in sequence starting with reliable power, to move Pakistan up the value chain beyond low-margin freelancing and outsourcing.
3,123   1,430 Read Article
Binance Gets Pakistan AML Approval: What It Means for You
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Binance Gets Pakistan AML Approval: What It Means for You
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
easypaisa digital bank signed an MoU with Binance on June 17, 2026, to explore digital savings and investment solutions in Pakistan. The deal follows Binance gaining AML registration from PVARA, Pakistan's new crypto regulator under the Virtual Assets Act 2026, marking a major step toward regulated digital assets in the country.
4,528   827 Read Article
Pakistani Freelancers Hit $1 Billion in IT Exports 2026
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Pakistani Freelancers Hit $1 Billion in IT Exports 2026
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistani freelancers earned over $1 billion in IT export income during the first 11 months of FY2026, a historic first. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, freelancers now contribute 25% of total IT exports, up from 20.3% a year earlier, reflecting nearly 50% year-on-year growth.
4,173   2,248 Read Article
Rao Muhammad Usman Basheer: Freelancing to Global Recognition
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Rao Muhammad Usman Basheer: Freelancing to Global Recognition
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Rao Muhammad Usman Basheer is a Pakistani entrepreneur and founder of RAO Digi Services who started his career as a freelancer in 2020 and grew into a digital agency owner specializing in SEO, digital marketing, branding, and PR services, later gaining international recognition for his entrepreneurial achievements.
3,212   1,679 Read Article
Muhammad Daniyal: Building AI-Powered Growth Systems for Businesses
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Muhammad Daniyal: Building AI-Powered Growth Systems for Businesses
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Muhammad Daniyal is a Marketing Strategist, AI Automation Consultant, and Growth Systems Architect with over six years of experience helping businesses build scalable growth systems using marketing strategy, artificial intelligence, automation, CRM infrastructure, and data-driven execution.
3,181   2,311 Read Article
Abdur Rehman: Building Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Through Innovation
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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.
3,605   993 Read Article
Tasawar Akram: Empowering Pakistan’s Digital Economy Through Entrepreneurship - From Pattoki to Global Digital Ventures
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Tasawar Akram: Empowering Pakistan’s Digital Economy Through Entrepreneurship - From Pattoki to Global Digital Ventures
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Tasawar Akram is a Pakistani digital entrepreneur, Director and Strategic Growth Partner at Brandliant, and founder of international digital ventures. He specializes in Facebook monetization, SEO, and digital marketing while helping aspiring freelancers, creators, and entrepreneurs develop skills and explore opportunities in the digital economy.
1,769   1,300 Read Article
Zaigham Baryar: Building Stalwart Enterprises in Pakistan’s BPO Industry
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Zaigham Baryar: Building Stalwart Enterprises in Pakistan’s BPO Industry
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Zaigham Baryar is the Founder and CEO of Stalwart Enterprises, a Pakistan-based company providing BPO, logistics, truck dispatch, brokerage, and technology solutions. Starting with a small team in 2021, the company expanded into a multi-branch organization serving international clients and creating employment opportunities.
2,655   1,238 Read Article
Faisal Iqbal: Building a Crypto and P2P Trading Business From Pakistan
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Faisal Iqbal: Building a Crypto and P2P Trading Business From Pakistan
Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Faisal Iqbal is a Pakistani cryptocurrency and trading professional and the CEO of Currencycle, a company in the digital-asset and P2P trading space. A Platinum-tier merchant on Binance in Pakistan, he has, by his own account, six years of trading experience. His work reflects Pakistan's growing, and newly regulated, digital-asset ecosystem.
3,957   1,760 Read Article
Manmeet Singh: The Founder of Desi Khazanay Bringing Old Herbal Remedies to Gen Z
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Manmeet Singh: The Founder of Desi Khazanay Bringing Old Herbal Remedies to Gen Z
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Manmeet Singh is the founder and CEO of Desi Khazanay, a Pakistani herbal wellness brand. Inspired by his family's herbal traditions and an old 1988 hair care nuskha, he built a company focused on natural hair care, wellness, and herbal products designed for modern consumers, especially Gen Z.
4,137   2,145 Read Article
Afroze Khan: From Byteify’s Collapse to Revenue Incarnate. The Pakistani Operator Quietly Rebuilding How Service Businesses Sell
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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.
2,403   2,371 Read Article
Najeeb Ullah Saleem - Building Global Opportunities for Pakistani Entrepreneurs
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Najeeb Ullah Saleem - Building Global Opportunities for Pakistani Entrepreneurs
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Najeeb Ullah Saleem is a Pakistani entrepreneur and co-founder of BRIO INC, a consultancy helping freelancers, startups, and online businesses with LLC formation, tax compliance, payment solutions, and international business setup services.
2,130   29 Read Article
Daniyal Abbas: From Microsoft Engineer to hytGenX Founder
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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.
793   27 Read Article
Arham Abid: The Entrepreneur Building Pakistan's AI and Automation Future
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Arham Abid: The Entrepreneur Building Pakistan's AI and Automation Future
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Arham Abid is a Pakistani entrepreneur and automation strategist who built multiple global companies focused on AI systems, virtual assistants, and agency automation. Through Mastermind Pakistan, he is now helping Pakistani entrepreneurs access world-class AI and automation knowledge to compete globally.
833   55 Read Article
Wajahat Shah: The Self-Made Marketer Who Built Pakistan's Leading TikTok Agency
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Wajahat Shah: The Self-Made Marketer Who Built Pakistan's Leading TikTok Agency
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Wajahat Shah is a Pakistani entrepreneur who built Adreach, a leading TikTok marketing agency, after transitioning from Chartered Accountancy. By learning digital advertising skills and identifying early opportunities in TikTok marketing, he scaled over $20 million in ad spend and established himself as a key figure in Pakistan’s digital marketing ecosystem.
2,244   1,325 Read Article
From Lahore to Texas: How Mudassir Saleem Malik Is Building the Bridge Between Pakistan's Tech Talent and the Global AI Economy
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From Lahore to Texas: How Mudassir Saleem Malik Is Building the Bridge Between Pakistan's Tech Talent and the Global AI Economy
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Mudassir Saleem Malik is a Pakistani AI strategist and CEO of AppsGenii Technologies, helping global enterprises adopt AI. Based in Texas, he connects Pakistan’s tech talent with international markets while contributing to Pakistan’s startup ecosystem through ventures, leadership roles, and AI-driven innovation.
2,710   1,417 Read Article
Google Personal Intelligence: Is Your Photo Data Safe?
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Google Personal Intelligence: Is Your Photo Data Safe?
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Google's Personal Intelligence is an opt-in feature launched in January 2026 that lets Gemini access your Google Photos, Gmail, YouTube history, and Search to give personalized AI responses. It is off by default, you choose which apps to connect, and Google says your data stays on its servers and is not used for ads.
2,399   2,166 Read Article
State Bank Removes Form R: Big Win for Freelancers
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State Bank Removes Form R: Big Win for Freelancers
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
On April 6, 2026, the State Bank of Pakistan (via circulars FECL6 and FECL7) removed the per-transaction Form R requirement for freelancers and IT exporters, replacing it with a one-time declaration at account opening. Reforms also mandate one-working-day payment processing, raise the Form R threshold to above $25,000, and allow ESFCA debit cards for direct USD spending.
3,371   1,759 Read Article
Alibaba BNPL in Pakistan: Opportunity or Hidden Risk?
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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.
5,421   2,214 Read Article
SECP Approves Alibaba-Linked BNPL in Pakistan: Full Analysis
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SECP Approves Alibaba-Linked BNPL in Pakistan: Full Analysis
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Alibaba has entered Pakistan’s fintech market through Cocotech Pakistan after receiving an NBFC license from SECP. The move introduces Buy Now Pay Later services, signaling global confidence in Pakistan’s digital economy while increasing competition for local fintech companies and expanding access to credit for underserved users.
4,227   1,129 Read Article
Usman Zafar Khawaja: Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur and Education Innovator
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Usman Zafar Khawaja: Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur and Education Innovator
Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Usman Zafar Khawaja is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and digital education innovator from Pakistan. He founded The Educational Network and Creator Circle, empowering women and digital professionals with mentorship, skill-building, and global work opportunities.
3,011   1,124 Read Article
The fintech sweeping Pakistan and Southeast Asia, why global earners and freelancers are choosing nsave over PayPal and Payoneer
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The fintech sweeping Pakistan and Southeast Asia, why global earners and freelancers are choosing nsave over PayPal and Payoneer
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
nsave is a fintech platform designed for freelancers and global earners in emerging markets like Pakistan. It offers US and UK accounts, low-cost international payments, and better financial control compared to traditional platforms like PayPal and Payoneer, which often charge higher fees and have limitations.
2,474   1,562 Read Article
Why Pakistani Engineers Are Leaving and What It Means
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Why Pakistani Engineers Are Leaving and What It Means
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
Pakistan is facing a growing tech brain drain as engineers move abroad for better opportunities. This impacts startups, innovation, and economic growth. The solution lies in building strong local ecosystems, competitive opportunities, and policies that encourage talent retention and return.
2,445   1,419 Read Article
Top 10 AI & Tech Tools Freelancers Need in 2026
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Top 10 AI & Tech Tools Freelancers Need in 2026
Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk
The top AI and tech tools freelancers need in 2026 include ChatGPT and Claude (AI assistants), Perplexity (research), Notion and ClickUp (project management), Canva and Figma (design), Grammarly (writing), Zapier (automation), and Adobe Creative Cloud. Around 77% of freelancers now use AI, reporting 20-40% productivity gains. Most offer capable free tiers.
2,953   2,752 Read Article