Best Buy has cut more than $500 off the price of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, bringing the price down to just $849.
Author: Pakistan Tech News
iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro Max PTA Tax in Pakistan April 2024
PTA tax for Apple iPhone 14 Other models start from one lac seven thousand and end up to one lac thirty thousand.
Apple devices It is known for its premium build quality, robust interface, and brand value. Phones hold a large portion of the global mobile phone market. As is currently the case, iPhone 15 It is being sold as the latest phone, and older models like the iPhone 14 remain on the market as well.
iPhone 14 The series features powerful A15 Bionic and Hexa Core processors that deliver peak performance. The phone comes with a 6.1-inch screen with a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels, and users can enjoy a high-definition viewing experience.
The device is supported by a dual camera system, consisting of a 12-megapixel rear camera and a 12-megapixel front camera. Apple fans are appreciating various aspects of the iPhone 14, from its large display to its amazing camera setup.
Latest iPhone 14 price in Pakistan
The Apple iPhone 14 is priced at INR 384,999
iPhone tax 14 pta 2024
| model | Tax on passport | Tax on CNIC |
| iPhone 14 | 107,300 rupees | INR 130,700 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | 113,000 rupees | INR 137,100 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 122,300 rupees | Rs 147,100 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | INR 131,100 | INR 156,850 |
PTA tax for all iPhone models in Pakistan 2024
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Mobile phone installment program to be launched soon
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) is gearing up to present a groundbreaking mobile phone installment policy to the newly appointed Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawja. This policy aims to democratize access to cutting-edge mobile technology by offering interest-free installment plans to citizens across Pakistan.
According to sources within the MoITT, once the Minister of State approves the policy, it will undergo a rigorous review process by the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Finance. Upon receiving the green light from both ministries, the policy will be presented to the federal cabinet for final approval.
Drafted in November of the previous year, the mobile phone installment policy has undergone meticulous scrutiny and fine-tuning to ensure its efficacy and alignment with the government’s vision of fostering digital inclusion.
A key aspect of the policy revolves around measures to combat defaulters. Individuals who fail to adhere to their installment obligations will face the prospect of having their mobile phones blocked, a deterrent aimed at fostering responsible ownership and mitigating misuse.
The comprehensive nature of the policy extends beyond its financing mechanisms. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will play a pivotal role in implementation, leveraging its Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to ensure the seamless execution of measures to block non-compliant devices.
According to the MoITT, the mobile phone installment policy underscores the government’s commitment to bridging the technological gap and fostering digital inclusion. By making smartphones more accessible through interest-free installment plans, the initiative seeks to empower individuals from all walks of life to harness the transformative potential of modern technology.
As Pakistan strives to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the mobile phone financing policy represents a significant step towards ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the nation’s technological advancements. With ministerial approval and subsequent implementation, this policy promises to unlock a world of opportunities for Pakistan’s citizens, fostering economic growth and empowering individuals to thrive in the digital age.
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Shaza Fatima Khawaja Takes Charge As State Minister for IT and Telecom
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has welcomed a new leader, as Shaza Fatima Khawaja officially took charge as the State Minister for IT and Telecom. Upon her arrival at the ministry, Khawaja was warmly received by Federal Secretary IT Hassan Nasir Jami, Additional Secretary IT Aisha Humaira Moriani, and other senior officials.
In a comprehensive briefing session, the new State Minister was apprised of the ministry’s various functions, ongoing projects, and the responsibilities of its different wings. This orientation aimed to familiarize Khawaja with the ministry’s efforts to enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and promote technological innovation across the nation.
Expressing her commitment to advancing the country’s IT and telecom sectors, Khawaja emphasized the pivotal role of digitalization in driving economic growth and development. She also highlighted the immense potential of the IT industry in creating job opportunities and improving government services for the people of Pakistan.
Khawaja’s appointment as the State Minister for IT and Telecom comes at a crucial juncture when Pakistan is poised to make significant strides in the tech industry. Her leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective and renewed momentum to the ministry’s initiatives, steering the nation towards a more digitally-enabled future.
With her visionary approach and dedication to propelling Pakistan’s technological progress, Khawaja is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead in the rapidly evolving IT and telecom landscape.
As the new State Minister takes the helm, the Ministry of IT and Telecom is poised to embark on a transformative journey, fostering innovation, enhancing digital connectivity, and unlocking the full potential of Pakistan’s tech sector.
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Lahore Gears Up for Mega IT City and Education Projects Under CM Maryam Nawaz Vision
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has set ambitious plans in motion to transform Lahore into a global hub for technology and education. Several major initiatives, including the construction of a 21-story Arfa Karim Tower Two in IT City and the establishment of Lahore Knowledge Park, have been approved.
In a promising development, tech giants like Microsoft and Oracle have expressed their willingness to establish a presence in the upcoming IT City Lahore. CM Nawaz has directed officials to invite major Chinese IT companies to set up offices as well, further bolstering the city’s tech ecosystem.
The IT City project aims to provide world-class business opportunities for leading IT companies from across the globe. CM Nawaz emphasized that the best IT firms will be facilitated to establish operations within this state-of-the-art tech hub.
Alongside the IT City, plans are underway to establish an Education City in Lahore, where campuses of renowned international universities will be set up. This initiative will provide students from Punjab and across Pakistan access to world-class educational facilities within the country.
To enhance digital connectivity, a Free Wi-Fi pilot project has also been approved for Lahore. Within two weeks, free Wi-Fi hotspots will be launched at 10 locations across the city, with plans to expand to 516 locations in the near future. Educational institutions, airports, railway stations, and bus stands have been prioritized for the initial rollout of this project.
During a meeting presided over by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, CEO BD Imran Amin provided a comprehensive briefing on the IT City and Lahore Knowledge Park projects. Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Provincial Adviser Pervaiz Rasheed, Minister for Information and Culture Zahid Bukhari, MPA Sania Ashiq, Chief Secretary, SMBR, Chairman P&D, Secretary Housing, Secretary Higher Education, COO Brig. (R) Mansoor Janjua DGLDA, Chairman PITB, and other concerned officials were also present.
With these ambitious initiatives, Lahore is poised to become a thriving hub for technology, innovation, and education, attracting top talent and investment from around the world.
Pakistan Unveils Indigenously Developed HAIDER Main Battle Tank in Major Defence Milestone
In a major boost to Pakistan’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, the Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) showcased its latest technological marvel – the HAIDER Main Battle Tank. The rollout ceremony was graced by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday at the prestigious HIT facility.
Developed through collaborative efforts between Pakistan’s HIT and China’s state-owned NORINCO, the HAIDER tank represents a leap forward in advancing Pakistan’s tank warfare prowess. It boasts cutting-edge technology, formidable firepower, robust protection systems and enhanced maneuverability characteristics.
The milestone event was attended by dignitaries including the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, high-ranking Pakistani government and military officials, underlining the strategic defense collaboration between the two nations.
COAS Munir was briefed in-depth on HAIDER’s technical capabilities, indigenization progress made by HIT across arms and armaments manufacturing. He commended the engineers and workforce for their commitment towards achieving self-reliance in critical defense technologies.
Crafted With Advanced Technologies for Battlefield Supremacy
Integrating state-of-the-art systems, the HAIDER Main Battle Tank exemplifies Pakistan’s relentless pursuit of indigenous defense innovation excellence. Its cutting-edge features aim to provide the Pakistan Army a decisive edge on future battlefields.
During the visit, Gen. Munir also toured other advanced manufacturing facilities at the Heavy Industrial Complex. He lauded HIT’s role in bolstering Pakistan’s defence industrial base through consistent technological breakthroughs over the decades.
The HAIDER tank rollout marks a significant milestone for HIT and Pakistan’s defence production industry. It highlights intensifying Pak-China defence collaboration geared towards co-developing next-generation weapon systems and military hardware for regional security.
As Pakistan enhances self-reliance across its supply chains, domestic defence manufacturing plays a pivotal part. Advanced battle tank and armoured vehicle production helps reduce import dependencies while catalyzing technology transfers, job creation and economic progress.
Pakistani Tech Firms Eye Saudi IT Market at LEAP 2024 Exhibition
Pakistani software houses and IT companies are making their mark at the LEAP 2024 tech exhibition in Riyadh. Over 70 Pakistani enterprises, including 20 startups, are showcasing cutting-edge solutions in AI, IoT, cybersecurity, cloud computing and more at this premier Saudi tech event from March 4-7.
This year’s contingent represents the largest-ever presence of Pakistani tech innovators at any global event. It underscores the country’s rapidly growing IT prowess and ambitions to expand business in the lucrative Middle Eastern market, especially Saudi Arabia.
During this mega event, P@SHA (Pakistan Software Houses Association) has signed its largest MoU to date focused on enhancing B2B engagement with the IT association of Bahrain,
highlighted Muhammad Zohaib Khan, P@SHA Chairman.
He added that leading Pakistani tech firm Abacus Consulting inked an MoU with Saudi digital solutions provider Elm. Meanwhile, Inbox Technologies partnered with Saudi Arabia’s GISSAN expanding their local footprint.
The Pakistan Pavilion attracted major global IT and ITeS companies along with top Saudi government tech organizations. Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia inaugurated the pavilion and witnessed an equity investment deal between local startup SuperNova Solutions and Saudi investors.
Pakistan’s contingent of 74 companies and over 800 delegates showcases robust business presence and immense growth potential in AI, fintech, healthtech and emerging technologies aligned to Saudi’s Vision 2030 priorities,
stated Ambassador Ahmed Farooq.
Leveraging LEAP to Catalyze Saudi-Pak Tech Collaboration Pakistani tech leaders view LEAP 2024 as a platform to forge strategic partnerships and drive business with Saudi enterprises undergoing digital transformation. The country’s $1.5 billion IT exports industry is a natural fit for collaboration given Saudi’s tech investment ambitions.
The Saudi market has huge prospects and acceptability for Pakistani companies. We look forward to a bright future expanding our local team after over 23 years operating in Pakistan,
said Hassan Khan Lodhi, Chief Commercial Officer at Inbox Technologies.
Other delegation members echoed similar sentiments on leveraging Pakistani tech capabilities to accelerate Saudi’s diversification from oil dependence.
With over $100 million in business leads generated last year, the stage is set for Pakistan’s tech pioneers to make their mark across the Middle East’s largest market in 2024 and beyond.
Pakistan Space Program: A Journey of Progress and Aspirations
Pakistan’s space program, officially known as the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), has been on a steady trajectory of growth since its inception in the 1960s. Fueled by a desire for scientific advancement and national pride, SUPARCO has made significant strides in satellite development, space research, and international collaboration. This article delves into the history, achievements, and future aspirations of Pakistan space program.
Early Steps: Seeds of Ambition (1960s – 1980s)
Pakistan’s space journey began in the 1960s with the establishment of the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) in 1964. This initial period focused on building infrastructure and acquiring expertise. Collaborations with the United States led to the launch of Pakistan’s first sounding rocket, the “Rehbar-1,” in 1961, paving the way for further research in upper atmospheric studies.
The 1970s marked a significant milestone with the launch of the “Badr-1” satellite in 1988. This first experimental satellite, launched with the assistance of the United States, laid the groundwork for Pakistan’s indigenous satellite development program. The success of “Badr-1” demonstrated Pakistan’s growing capabilities in spacecraft design and construction.
Independent Strides: Building National Capacity (1990s – 2000s)
The 1990s saw a shift towards self-reliance as SUPARCO focused on developing its own satellite technology. This era witnessed the launch of the “Badr-B” satellite in 1990, the first satellite partially built in Pakistan. The success of “Badr-B” instilled confidence and paved the way for further indigenous satellite development efforts.
The turn of the millennium brought about a period of rapid progress. SUPARCO launched the “PakSat-1” communication satellite in 1992, marking a significant step towards establishing its own communication network. Subsequent years saw the launch of several more satellites, including the “Badr-3” in 1999 and the “PakSat-1R” replacement satellite in 2004. These launches highlighted Pakistan’s growing competence in building and launching its own communication satellites.
Expanding Horizons: Remote Sensing and International Collaboration (2010s – Present)
The 21st century ushered in a new era of diversification for Pakistan’s space program. SUPARCO ventured beyond communication satellites, focusing on developing remote sensing satellites. The launch of the “PRSS-1” (Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite) in 2018 marked a new chapter. This satellite provided valuable data for resource management, disaster monitoring, and agricultural planning.
Pakistan also actively pursued international collaboration throughout this period. Agreements with China led to the launch of several communication satellites under the Space Programme 2040 initiative, furthering Pakistan’s access to advanced technologies and expertise.
A significant development in 2023 was the approval of Pakistan’s New Space Policy by the federal cabinet. This policy aims to:
- Encourage private sector involvement in space exploration and communication services.
- Establish a regulatory framework for space activities in accordance with international standards.
- Foster international collaboration and technology transfer.
- Develop a pool of scientists, engineers, and technologists to achieve self-reliance in core space technologies.
The New Space Policy is a step towards a more robust and diversified space program for Pakistan.
Challenges and Looking Ahead: The Road to the Future
Despite its achievements, Pakistan’s space program faces challenges. Limited resources, competition from regional players, and the ongoing need for technology transfer from developed nations pose obstacles for further progress.
However, SUPARCO remains determined to push boundaries. The organization has ambitious plans for the future, including developing a launch vehicle capability, establishing a spaceport, and exploring deep space missions. Increased investment in research and development, coupled with continued international collaboration, will be crucial for realizing these aspirations.
Impact and Significance: Beyond the Stars
Pakistan’s space program transcends scientific exploration. It serves as a symbol of national pride, technological advancement, and the country’s commitment to innovation. The program has numerous practical applications, providing data for disaster management, agricultural development, and telecommunication infrastructure. Additionally, it fosters collaboration with other nations, promoting scientific exchange and technological knowledge sharing.
A Journey Continues
Over the past six decades, Pakistan’s space program has come a long way. From launching its first sounding rocket to developing its own satellites, SUPARCO has made significant contributions to the nation’s scientific progress. As the program embarks on its next chapter, with aspirations for deep space exploration and self-reliance in launch capabilities, Pakistan’s journey towards the stars continues to inspire and holds immense potential for the future.
Ignite Eased Pathways for Local and Global Venture Capitalists Through Pakistan Startup Fund
The Pakistan government’s Ignite has further eased pathways for domestic and global venture capitalists (VCs) to deploy capital into high-potential local startups. This latest initiative forms part of the Pakistan Startup Fund’s (PSF) expanding overarching vision to cultivate world-beating, innovative companies locally through public-private sector collaboration.
Interested investors can now seamlessly register on the dedicated Pakistan Startup Fund portal to gain access to an approved whitelist of venture capital firms. Once registered, VCs undergo rigorous due diligence by PSF’s investment committee to verify credibility and domain expertise.
The streamlined mechanism allows whitelisted VCs to apply for matching grants worth 10-30% of their direct investments into post-revenue Pakistani startups. Unlike typical arrangements, PSF only serves as an investment catalyst and does not seek equity, governance rights or royalties in funded startups. This allows optimal freedom to investors and entrepreneurs without outside interference.
Moreover, grants get awarded to startups as the ‘last cheque’ in ongoing funding rounds only after securing commitments from commercial VCs upfront. This ensures purely complementary support once business viability gets validated externally.
Over 180 domestic and global VCs have already registered on the platform to access co-investment grants supporting Pakistan’s next generation of innovative companies.
By eliminating red tape, creating aligned incentives and facilitating access to growth capital, Pakistan Startup Fund proves instrumental for its vision of making Pakistan a global hub for technology entrepreneurship. Already, funded startups are showing potential to drive innovations and expand globally across verticals like fintech, edtech, healthtech and more.
Attracting international VC attention also results in localized knowledge and connections transferring to domestic ecosystem stakeholders. This paves the way for more homegrown fund managers to emerge.
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