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Tag: asia

  • Apple is expanding its presence in the Middle East

    Apple is expanding its presence in the Middle East

    So much is happening in the Middle East right now and the other thing is that Apple is expanding in Saudi Arabia.

    The Cupertino giant is set to launch its first online store in Saudi Arabia in summer 2025, followed by multiple flagship physical stores beginning in 2026. The expansion includes plans for a notable retail location in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Apple will also provide customer service and support in Arabic for the first time, offering its full product range through online and physical channels. CEO Tim Cook emphasized the compay’s commitment to supporting local customers, businesses, and innovators.

    This expansion builds on Apple’s existing investments in the country, particularly its Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh, which was established in 2021 through partnerships with local institutions. The all-women academy has trained nearly 2,000 students in programming, enabling them to publish apps on the App Store.

    Apple is also expanding its educational programs, having recently hosted the country’s first coed Apple Foundation Program. The monthlong course focused on coding and app development, with an emphasis on gaming. Future programs are planned for spring 2025.

    Apple says its investment has significantly impacted the local tech ecosystem. Saudi developer earnings have increased by over 1,750% since 2019. Apple has spent more than 10 billion SAR (over $2,6 bln) with local companies over the past five years and continues to support technological innovation.

    Additional technological integrations include Apple Pay’s expansion in Riyadh, where users can now use Express Mode to pay for metro and bus transit by simply holding an iPhone or Apple Watch near a reader. Since its 2019 launch, many Saudi customers have transitioned from traditional payment methods to Apple Pay, the US company notes.

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  • Thailand loosen EV production regulations

    Thailand loosen EV production regulations

    Thailand’s Board of Investment (BoI) has announced that the government would extend deadlines for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers to meet domestic production quotas, addressing weak local market demand.

    Under the current EV 3.0 incentive program, manufacturers must produce one locally assembled EV for every imported EV or a 1:1 ratio.

    Companies failing to meet this quota in 2024 will face a stricter 1.5:1 production-to-import ratio by 2025.

    The policy aims to encourage automakers to establish EV assembly plants in Thailand, which has attracted EV-related investments totaling 80 billion THB ($2.3 billion).

    To further support the struggling auto industry, the government will extend domestic EV production requirements to the end of 2027. This move comes as Thailand grapples with stagnant market conditions caused by slow economic growth and tight credit policies.

    The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) recently revised its 2024 automobile production forecast down to 1.5 million units, the lowest since 2021, citing weak domestic demand.

    During January and October, total car sales in Thailand dropped 26.2% year-on-year to 476,350 units, with pickup truck sales plunging 43%.

    The decline is attributed to stricter auto loan regulations amid concerns over rising non-performing loans and Thailand’s high household debt.

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  • Porsche expands to property development in Asia

    Porsche expands to property development in Asia

    German automaker Porsche is partnering local developers to build condos costing up to $40 million per unit in Bangkok as it expands to luxury property development in Asia.

    Its Porsche Design unit is collaborating with Anada Development in a 21-floor apartment block which will offer 22 units priced between $15 million and $40 million, according to Bloomberg.

    The building, to be completed by 2028, will be Porsche Design’s first in Asia. It has previously developed properties in the U.S. and Germany.

    Porsche’s building is among several projects in the luxury segment which is being developed in Thailand’s bustling capital where prices are considered to be more competitive then regional rivals.

    “Bangkok distinguishes itself by providing an affordable luxury experience that many global cities cannot rival,” said Leung.

    “In addition, Bangkok presents straightforward property ownership laws, a robust rental market and a healthy secondary resale market.”

    Hong Kong has seen property values plunging by 30% in the last three years, while in Singapore foreigners have to taxes up to 60% on purchases.

    A large portion of Thailand’s luxury property market is being snapped up by foreigners.

    Foreigners bought 33% of the luxury condominium units sold by CBRE Thailand in the first half this year, up from the 25% recorded in the same period last year, the property consultancy has said.

    Wealthy expats contributed to the growth in sales of luxury condos, unlike the broader property market, where most sectors have seen a decline in sales as banks declined a large number of housing loans, said Artitaya Kasemlawan, CBRE’s head of residential sales.

    “Sales of super luxury condo units stood at 86% in the first half of this year, while those in the branded residence segment (condominiums managed by 5-star hotel groups) enjoyed 90% sales,” she said.

    Super luxury condo units are those priced from BHT350,000 (US$10,300) per square meter or more.

    Limited supply explains the surge in sales as there were only three new luxury condo projects launched in Bangkok in the first nine months of this year, she added.

  • Samsung, Vinpearl, Vinamilk among most popular recruiters in Vietnam

    Vinamilk, Vinpearl, Samsung Electronics HCMC and McDonald’s are among the most popular recruiters in Vietnam this year, according to recruitment platform CareerViet.

    The top five recruiters in the large business category are Vinamilk, Vinpearl, Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex, Masan Consumer and FPT IS, while the top five in the medium business category are McDonald’s, Guardian, Prep Technology, Nabati and Petrovietnam Securities Incorporated (PSI), according to a CareerViet survey on over 5,720 businesses from July 7 to October 31.

    Vinpearl is the leading recruiter in food and beverage, accommodations and tourism, while the Hoa Sen group is the leading recruiter in construction, architecture and interior design. PNJ is the leading recruiter in retail, while Bim Group is the leading recruiter in real estate.

    Popular recruiters are liked not only due to their attractive benefits, diverse working environments and incentives for personal development, but also thanks to their own brands, CareerViet said.

    The survey also revealed that while Gen X workers prioritize stability and long-term benefits, Gen Y values development and work-life balance while Gen Z focuses more on flexibility, salaries and personal development.

    83% of Gen Z workers surveyed said the main factors for them choosing their jobs are salaries and benefits, followed by working styles. They prefer workplaces that ensure holiday bonuses, have shorter working hours or offer hybrid working methods.

    “They love a job with high incomes and ensures flexibility. 90% of Gen Z workers want to be trained in new skills, including communication, problem-solving, foreign languages, management and leadership,” said Tran Lien Phuong, director of research and strategic consulting at Amco Vietnam.

    Workers’ perspectives from different generations will by a key factor for businesses to improve their HR policies, CareerViet said, adding that a workplace with different worker generations will help make it more competitive.

    “A business’s success is not only shown through its business performance, but also policies to attract, keep and develop talents,” CareerViet said.

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  • NVIDIA Opens First R&D Center in Vietnam to Boost AI

    NVIDIA Opens First R&D Center in Vietnam to Boost AI

    The company is working with the Vietnamese government to establish the new Vietnam Research and Development Center, which will focus on AI. NVIDIA plans to use the center for software development, taking advantage of Vietnam’s talented STEM engineers, and collaborating with industry leaders, startups, government agencies, universities, and students to promote AI adoption.

    Jensen Huang, NVIDIA’s Founder and CEO, noted that the center will create platforms for NVIDIA and its partners to foster AI innovation, particularly in industries like healthcare, education, transportation, and finance. Vietnam’s economy is rapidly growing, especially in the manufacturing sector, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

    The country’s AI market is also expanding due to technological advancements, government support, and increased AI integration across industries. Since 2021, Vietnam has been focusing on AI development as part of its digital transformation strategy to drive innovation, build a strong AI ecosystem, and establish itself as a regional R&D leader.

    Vietnam’s Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, emphasized the government’s commitment to innovation and AI technology development in partnership with NVIDIA. The goal is to create a bright future for the innovation ecosystem and high-tech industry in Southeast Asia.

    NVIDIA has been investing in Vietnam’s technology sector for the past eight years, collaborating with over 100 Vietnamese AI startups through its Inception program and partnering with 65 universities in the country. Last year, NVIDIA also started working with FPT Smart Cloud as its first Vietnamese cloud partner.

  • Asia Pacific’s Telecom Sector Pursues Green Revolution

    Asia Pacific’s Telecom Sector Pursues Green Revolution

    With the rise of cloud computing, circular economy initiatives, and renewable energy adoption, Asia-Pacific operators are setting new benchmarks for sustainable practices, shaping a green future across the global telecom industry.

    Japan’s KDDI stands at the forefront of sustainable telecommunications, showcasing how innovation and responsibility can coexist. In 2023, KDDI recycled over 99% of its disused network hardware, a testament to its commitment to the circular economy.

    Central to KDDI’s strategy is its adoption of cloud computing and Network Function Virtualization (NFV). By minimizing physical infrastructure needs, these technologies have reduced energy consumption across the company’s operations. This shift not only enhances operational efficiency but also positions KDDI as a model for energy-conscious practices in Asia.

    Key highlights of KDDI’s sustainability strategy include:

    • Carbon Neutrality Goals: KDDI is targeting net-zero carbon emissions by leveraging renewable energy and optimizing its networks.
    • Green Mobile Service: A dedicated service for corporate clients powered entirely by renewable energy.
    • KDDI Green Partners Fund: A venture fund supporting startups addressing environmental challenges, showcasing the operator’s broader commitment to sustainability beyond telecommunications.

    KDDI’s efforts align with Japan’s national strategy, which aims to pioneer sustainable innovation. By focusing on renewable energy and environmental stewardship, KDDI reinforces the Asia Pacific’s reputation as a pioneer in sustainable telecom.

    KDDI’s leadership reflects broader trends across the Asia Pacific region, where operators are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their business models. Many countries in the region, including South Korea, Australia, and Singapore, are pushing for aggressive decarbonization targets in line with global agreements like the Paris Accord.

    Countries like Japan and Australia are leading the charge in integrating renewable energy into telecom infrastructure. Moreover, operators are investing heavily in solar and wind energy to power networks, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

    Southeast Asian nations, such as Malaysia and Thailand, are emphasizing sustainable supply chain practices, ensuring that the manufacturing and deployment of telecom equipment aligns with environmental goals.

    The rollout of 5G networks in the Asia Pacific has paved the way for more energy-efficient operations. Virtualization and automation, enabled by cloud technologies, are being widely adopted to lower energy consumption and enhance scalability.

    Cloud computing is a game-changer for sustainability in telecommunications. The Juniper report highlights that virtualizing network functions through cloud platforms can reduce global energy consumption by over 2,000 TWh by 2025. For the Asia Pacific, which is rapidly deploying 5G and exploring 6G, cloud computing holds immense potential as it cuts costs and minimizes environmental impact.

    Cloud computing in the Asia Pacific region is advancing rapidly, driven by innovation and collaboration among leading technology players. Huawei’s CloudFabric 3.0 Hyper-Converged DCN solution is enhancing data center efficiency with lossless Ethernet, while Singtel is pioneering an all-in-one enterprise platform integrating 5G edge and cloud services.

    In Indonesia, GoTo, Tencent, and Alibaba Cloud are collaborating to accelerate digital transformation, supporting economic growth through cloud functionalities. ZTE’s G6 Series Servers are prioritizing green computing infrastructure, promoting sustainability in IT operations, and Rakuten Mobile’s NICT-backed edge cloud initiative underpins the push for global standardization in next-gen connectivity. Together, these initiatives highlight a robust and evolving cloud ecosystem in the region.

    The Asia Pacific region is poised to remain a global leader in sustainable telecommunications over the next decade. Key trends driving this momentum include:

    • Renewable Energy Investments: Governments and operators will continue expanding renewable energy usage across networks.
    • Circular Economy Practices: Recycling and repurposing materials will become standard across the telecom supply chain.
    • Technological Advancements: Innovations in cloud computing, 5G, and AI will enable further reductions in energy consumption.

    As Asia-Pacific operators like KDDI take bold steps toward sustainability, the region is setting an example for global adoption. By combining innovation with environmental responsibility, the Asia Pacific is demonstrating how telecommunications can lead the way to a more sustainable future.

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  • Ericsson and Bharti Airtel Extend Partnership

    Ericsson and Bharti Airtel Extend Partnership

    Under the new agreement, Ericsson will implement centralized RAN and Open RAN-ready solutions to transform the network, providing customers with broader coverage and increased capacity. Additionally, Ericsson will upgrade the software of its existing 4G radios to enhance the overall customer experience.-

    Randeep Sekhon, CTO of Bharti Airtel, stated, “The strategic partnership with Ericsson to deploy the latest technology demonstrates Airtel’s commitment to network excellence. This deployment will help us improve the speed, reliability, and coverage of our network, ensuring an exceptional experience for our customers.”

    Andres Vicente, Head of Ericsson Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India, commented, “This extension of our partnership reflects our joint goal to establish a strong 4G and 5G infrastructure for Bharti Airtel to meet the connectivity needs of its customer base, including emerging 5G use cases. We will collaborate closely with Bharti Airtel to deliver excellent user experiences for their customers.”

    As a global leader in 5G technology, Ericsson currently supports 170 operational 5G networks in over 70 countries. Ericsson’s technological expertise has been acknowledged by independent analysts, such as Frost Radar™ 5G Network Infrastructure Market 2024, where Ericsson has been ranked as the top performer for the fourth consecutive year.

    Moreover, Ericsson has maintained its position as a leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for 5G for the fourth year running. Having been a trusted connectivity partner for Airtel for more than 25 years, Ericsson has supported every generation of mobile communications. This strategic partnership underscores the shared commitment of Ericsson and Airtel in developing an advanced digital ecosystem in India.

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  • How ZUS Coffee become Malaysia’s largest coffee chain in 4 years

    How ZUS Coffee become Malaysia’s largest coffee chain in 4 years

    ZUS Coffee, a Malaysian firm that began as a small kiosk in Kuala Lumpur, took just over four years to become the biggest coffee chain operator in the country.

    The firm quickly expanded to surpass U.S. giant Starbucks in a market with over 3,300 branded coffee outlets, a figure expected to grow 4-5% this year, according to global coffee industry research platform World Coffee Portal.

    It launched at the end of 2019 with a 200-square-foot (18-square-meter) kiosk in the Kuala Lumpur City Center area.

    The brand positioned itself in the mid-priced segment, which was largely untapped at the time, aiming to make specialty coffee a daily necessity rather than a luxury.

    One of its main draws is its frequently updated menu, which features unique drinks like the Ice Shaken Osmanthus Orange Espresso, Sakura Rose Frappe, and Cheese Crème Latté.

    But this was not the only factor setting it apart from other options in Malaysia’s coffee market as it is also known for its tech-driven approach.

    The company digitized its operations and had an app at launch that facilitates online ordering, pick-up and delivery, with the aim to shake up the market by focusing on digital orders and fast service.

    The app also collects data on customers’ tastes and preferences, which is used to develop new products or improve existing items.

    The company had a rough start as cashless payments and online coffee ordering were slow to catch on in Malaysia.

    However, the Covid-19 pandemic hit a few months after the startup launched, transforming the local coffee landscape. Delivery services and contactless payments quickly became standard, making ZUS’ focus on technology highly successful.

    “We became profitable just 10 months after we launched. Timing was crucial – it is not just the product or the team, but being in the right place at the right time,” Venon Tian, the firm’s COO and co-founder, told Nikkei Asia.

    Tian’s ambitious plans for his business would see it challenge international brands in the local market.

    “Hopefully we will be able to surpass the bigger boys in town soon and be something for Malaysians to be proud of as well,” Tian told The CEO Magazine in 2022, when the chain had just over 150 stores.

    As its popularity and presence grew over the years, the firm became the largest coffee chain operator in Malaysia. It has 566 stores as of September 2024, surpassing Starbucks, which is in second place with 411 outlets.

    Its revenues jumped from 15.7 million ringgit (US$3.5 million) in 2021 to over 200 million ringgit in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, while its net profit surged from 134,000 ringgit to 10.2 million ringgit during the same period.

    The chain is now looking to expand into the international market. It has already opened more than 40 stores in the Philippines since entering the market last year after Filipino billionaire Frank Lao acquired a 30% stake in the company.

    It opened its first store in Singapore in October and launched in Brunei late last month with an outlet at the Setia Point shopping center in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan.

    Tian said at a conference hosted by Tech in Asia earlier this year that ZUS would be expanding to Pakistan by the first half of 2025. He expects its revenues and net profit to reach 600 million ringgit and 30 million ringgit, respectively, this year.

    He told Nikkei Asia that the firm aims to become a “national champion,” comparing it to Malaysian airline AirAsia. “Who knows, we could be the AirAsia of coffee – a Southeast Asian brand recognized globally.”

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  • Netflix is big in Japan

    Netflix is big in Japan

    Netflix reached a milestone of over 10 million subscribers in Japan during the first half of this year. That’s a success! Netflix is gaining attention in the Land of the Rising Sun with…. Japanese-language programming.

    You see, Japanese series are drawing significant attention in the expanding market. Over the past four years, the company’s subscriber base has doubled, and the streaming giant has recently released several popular Japanese-language shows that distinguish it from local broadcasters.

    Kaata Sakamoto, vice president of content for Japan, expressed satisfaction with the success of shows like “Tokyo Swindlers”, “The Queen of Villains”, and the reality-romance series “The Boyfriend”, which have garnered considerable viewership. Since Netflix began reporting viewing rankings in 2021, only two English-language series, the live-action adaptation of hit “One Piece” and the fourth season of “Stranger Things”, have topped these rankings in Japan.

    Sakamoto also noted that Japan has a strong demand for local content, which is why Netflix continues to prioritize producing such programming. In September, Netflix announced a five-year contract with Hitoshi One, the director of “Tokyo Swindlers”, a drama about a group of real estate scammers.

    The growth of streaming has led to increased consumption of Japanese content, with major entertainment companies turning their attention to their hits. For example, Amazon has adapted Sega Sammy’s “Yakuza” game series, and reports indicate that Sony is in talks to acquire media company Kadokawa to strengthen its entertainment portfolio.

    Netflix has stated that Japanese content is its third-most-viewed non-English content, following Korean and Spanish programming. Additionally, its anime offerings were watched more than 1 billion times worldwide last year.

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  • Google Messages update will make you wish it’s the last of its kind

    Google Messages update will make you wish it’s the last of its kind

    If you thought you were indecisive, wait till you have a look at the latest Google Messages update. Google can’t seem to make up its mind about how it wants the text field to look. Of course, we can’t fault it for wanting to come up with the best possible design.

    When examining the new beta version of the Google Messages app, 9to5Google discovered that some changes have been made to the compose field again.

    To bring you up to speed, earlier this year, Google Messages featured a pill-shaped compose box with the emoji button in the beginning, followed by Magic Compose, Gallery, and the ‘plus’ menu. Voice Messages was outside the box, in a circle. It transformed into Send after you typed something.

    In late October, that change was reverted, with Google going back to the previous design with Plus, Gallery, and Magic Compose on the left, pushing the text field to the right, with emoji and voice memo shortcuts residing within it. Not everyone was a fan of this design, which is understandable, as it looked rather cluttered.

    Google has moved things around again in the latest beta. The text box is now again positioned on the left, but button placements have changed. The Plus is still the first button, and then comes Magic Compose, Emoji first, and Gallery. The Voice Memo/Send button remains outside. Once something is typed, only Plus and Emoji remain.

    Whether you like the new design or not, you might find yourself wishing that it remains the same for a long while. After all, muscle memory is hard to retrain and even harder to shake.

    Also, don’t be surprised if the change is not live at your end, as the report notes that it’s yet to roll out to everyone.

    Other than this, the beta version also features redesigned read receipts, but the implementation seems buggy at the moment and the new design only shows up in the main message list.

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  • Netflix subscribers are warned that they are the target of a dangerous SMS phishing campaign

    Netflix subscribers are warned that they are the target of a dangerous SMS phishing campaign

    It’s absolutely nuts to think that more than 13 years and five months ago we were telling you about the Netflix app becoming available for the Motorola DROID and DROID X from the Android Market. We’ve gone from Android 2 to Android 15, the Android Market is now the Google Play Store, Netflix now offers a wide range of original content, and Motorola is trying to recapture the magic that made it and HTC early leaders among Android phone manufacturers.

    One thing that we didn’t worry about too much back in 2011 that we worry about now is the possibility of getting scammed by phishing attacks. These are emails or texts that are made to look as though they were sent from a company you do business with asking you to reveal personal information. Cybersecurity researchers are reporting that hackers are running an SMS phishing campaign against Netflix subscribers that seeks to access their Netflix accounts and steal information about the credit cards used to pay for the service.

    “We will never ask you to enter your personal information in a text or email. We will never request payment through a 3rd party vendor or website”-Netflix statement

    These bogus texts make it appear as though a subscriber’s account was placed on hold and ask the subscriber to update his/her information by clicking on a link. Here’s the scary part. This link will take the victim to a website that looks remarkably like the real Netflix site with a prompt asking for login and credit card information. If the information they request is provided to them, the scammers will take over control of the victim’s Netflix account and will have the ability to use his/her credit card and wipe out the remaining credit available.

    Security experts are warning Netflix subscribers to be on the lookout for any texts or emails stating that their Netflix account is on hold or will soon be suspended. Other texts accuse the subscriber of not paying for the service and urgently demand payment by threatening to cancel the account. Do not press on any links that are included in the text or email. You might be able to tell that the text and website are fakes since they are usually loaded with grammatical and spelling errors.

    The phishing campaign was discovered by cyber security firm Bitdefender. The security firm says that it spotted this campaign running in 23 countries, including the United States, since September. If you do receive this text, ignore it and delete it.

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  • Qatar Airways Cargo and Cainiao strengthen partnership to meet global e-commerce demand

    Qatar Airways Cargo and Cainiao strengthen partnership to meet global e-commerce demand

    Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, and Cainiao, a global leader in e-commerce logistics, agree to strengthen their existing partnership, aiming to support the growth of cross-border e-commerce and enhance consumer experiences worldwide.

    Cainiao, with its deep e-commerce insights and technological expertise, and Qatar Airways Cargo, with its extensive global connectivity, will together leverage their complementary strengths through this partnership to enhance global e-commerce logistics and stimulate economic growth at both regional and global levels.

    Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, said: “Since the inception of our collaboration with Cainiao in 2021, the partnership has seen strong growth, driven by ongoing flying agreements and a shared vision to support the burgeoning e-commerce industry.”

    “We are now further deepening our ties with Cainiao to work even closer together. By utilising the Qatar Airways Cargo hub at Hamad International Airport in Doha, we aim to expedite shipments to customers in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, reinforcing our commitment to Cainiao.”

    Wan Lin, Chief Executive Officer of Cainiao, said: “At Cainiao, we’re committed to building a smart, future-proof logistics network for e-commerce. We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with quality players like Qatar Airways Cargo to build a more robust global express network and better support our global customers with faster deliveries and enhanced supply chain efficiency.”

    E-commerce remains the largest driver of air cargo capacity demand worldwide. Qatar Airways Cargo’s extensive global network and state-of-the-art fleet have positioned it as an essential partner in meeting this demand. Through this collaboration, both companies continue to enhance connectivity and reliability for businesses and consumers across the globe.

    Qatar Airways Cargo looks forward to further developing this strategic relationship, reinforcing its position as a leader in the air cargo industry.

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  • Sri Lanka’s Growing Remote Work Ecosystem

    Sri Lanka’s Growing Remote Work Ecosystem

    The telecom sector is playing an essential role in this transition by providing the necessary infrastructure and services for remote workers to thrive. With advancements in high-speed broadband, affordable mobile data plans, and co-working spaces, the country is building a robust ecosystem for remote professionals.

    Historically, the shift began with the expansion of broadband access and investments in IT services, particularly after the country’s digital transformation strategy launched in 2017. Today, Sri Lanka boasts 61.48% internet penetration, with initiatives like “Digital Sri Lanka” enhancing connectivity even in rural regions.

    Interestingly, data from Sri Lankan job portal, XpressJobs, showed a 45% increase in remote job postings in 2023, particularly in sectors like IT, customer service, and digital marketing.

    The rise of remote work in Sri Lanka is being driven by factors such as affordability, scenic locales, and an influx of digital nomads seeking a balance between work and leisure. That being said, Sri Lanka’s proposed digital nomad visa, gingerly approved in 2021, is yet to be launched. In the meantime, digital nomads can apply for a 30-day Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which can be extended for 30-90, 90-180, or 180-270 days.

    Bolstering the essential connectivity needed for remote work is Sri Lanka’s telecom industry, which is, similarly, evolving rapidly, through investments in 4G LTE, fiber optics, and early explorations into 5G. Telecom operators like Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT-MOBITEL) and Dialog Axiata have introduced Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) services, affordable mobile data plans, and public Wi-Fi zones, ensuring widespread connectivity essential for remote work success.

    Sri Lankan telecom companies have made significant strides in enhancing remote work infrastructure through strategic partnerships and innovations. Dialog Axiata PLC, Axiata Group Berhad, and Bharti Airtel Limited recently agreed to merge their Sri Lankan operations, a move expected to strengthen the country’s telecommunications sector. This merger aims to boost network capacity, ensuring more reliable and faster connectivity for remote workers across the nation.

    Dialog Axiata has been at the forefront of innovation, launching Sri Lanka’s first eSIM service, enhancing flexibility for mobile users. Additionally, Dialog Enterprise collaborated with Microsoft and H One to introduce Operator Connect—a pioneering service that integrates directly with Microsoft Teams. This launch marks a significant step forward in providing seamless communication tools essential for remote work environments.

    Similarly, SLT-MOBITEL has embraced digital transformation to cater to the growing demands of remote work by deploying Microsoft 365 productivity and security solutions. By integrating tools like Microsoft Teams, Microsoft 365 F3, E3, and E5, SLT-MOBITEL has created a seamless and secure environment for its employees to collaborate remotely. This shift has empowered frontline workers and executives alike, allowing real-time access to essential applications and secure data protection from anywhere.

    Furthermore, SLT-MOBITEL is leading the way in 5G development, laying the groundwork for next-generation remote connectivity. Moreover, partnerships with companies like Nokia have accelerated nationwide fiber network expansion, ensuring broader access to high-speed internet. Another key development includes the groundbreaking Maldives-Sri Lanka Cable project, completed in 2020, which enhanced regional telecom infrastructure, improving international connectivity through a Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) subsystem and an 863-kilometer fiber optic cable.

    Further strengthening its position, Dialog Axiata partnered with Rakuten Viber in 2021, becoming Sri Lanka’s largest A2P (Application-to-Person) messaging provider. These advancements collectively demonstrate Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering a robust telecom ecosystem, essential for supporting the growing remote work sector. The partnership enabled more than 300 Rakuten Viber carrier partners to comfortably communicate with more than 16 million Dialog Axiata customers using the Rakuten Viber A2P bilateral service, further enhancing remote working capabilities.

    Dialog Axiata has significantly advanced rural connectivity in Sri Lanka, presenting new opportunities for remote work by deploying its 4000th LTE network tower in the Thihawa village (located within the Kurunegala District). Since March 2020, the company has invested LKR 50.9 billion (USD 255.8 million) to address rising connectivity demands, particularly during the pandemic, when mobile data traffic doubled, and fixed broadband usage tripled.

    Dialog Axiata upgraded over 2,800 4G towers and added spectrum capacity to meet these demands. By year-end, it plans to increase capacity across 75% of its sites and deploy 450 new towers in rural areas to achieve 4G coverage for 95% of Sri Lanka’s population, supporting the government’s Gamata Sanniwedanaya initiative to enhance connectivity in remote regions.

    Sri Lanka’s unique value proposition as a remote work destination is further enhanced by its diverse landscapes and affordable living costs. Sri Lanka aptly captures this phenomenon, showcasing how reliable telecom services have enabled professionals to transition from boardrooms to beaches, balancing productivity and leisure.

    Co-working spaces in cities like Colombo and Kandy now offer high-speed internet, video conferencing tools, and cloud storage, ensuring seamless collaboration for global teams. However, challenges like inconsistent connectivity in rural areas and the high cost of importing telecom equipment need to be addressed to fully harness the potential of remote work.

    In addition to infrastructure, digital literacy is key to Sri Lanka’s success in the remote work economy. As emphasized, developing skills in fields like web development, digital marketing, and graphic design is crucial for locals to tap into remote job opportunities. Telecom companies can play a pivotal role by partnering with educational institutions, creating awareness campaigns, and facilitating access to e-learning platforms. These initiatives can not only empower Sri Lankans with global opportunities but also position the country as a competitive player in the remote work market.

    Despite the progress, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring consistent connectivity across rural areas. These challenges present opportunities for targeted investments in broadband expansion and innovations such as 5G. Government collaboration with telecom operators, coupled with policies incentivizing innovation and tax breaks, can accelerate technological advancements.

    The economic benefits of remote work for Sri Lanka are immense. A strong telecom infrastructure can increase foreign exchange earnings by attracting digital nomads, create new jobs in sectors like IT and hospitality, and alleviate urban congestion by enabling professionals to work from less crowded areas. Moreover, remote work can provide resilience in times of economic uncertainty, offering diverse income opportunities for Sri Lankans. With continued investment in digital and physical infrastructure, Sri Lanka is well-positioned to emerge as a global hub for remote work.

    Looking ahead, the telecom sector will remain central to Sri Lanka’s remote work ambitions. Innovations in connectivity, such as the rollout of 5G, will enhance remote work experiences, while government policies supporting digital entrepreneurship will drive long-term growth. It was highlighted that Sri Lanka already has the elements needed to thrive in the remote work landscape, provided it continues to invest in its digital capabilities. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging its strengths, Sri Lanka can unlock new pathways to economic prosperity.

    Sri Lanka’s telecom sector is at the forefront of this transformation, enabling a new generation of workers to embrace flexibility and connectivity. From fiber-optic networks to mobile data plans, the industry is laying the foundation for a thriving remote work ecosystem. With strategic investments and skill-building initiatives, Sri Lanka can position itself as a global leader in

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  • WhatsApp makes sharing channels easier with a new QR code feature

    WhatsApp makes sharing channels easier with a new QR code feature

    Earlier this year, we got wind that WhatsApp was working on a new QR code feature to make accessing channels super easy. Well, now, it looks like the most popular messaging app in the world is bringing that feature to life.

    A recent report reveals that the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.24.25.7, is introducing a new feature that lets users scan QR codes to view and follow channels.

    As you can see from the screenshot, in the newest beta, WhatsApp users can test out the new feature for sharing channels through QR codes. If you’re one of the users who already have access, getting the QR code for a channel is easy:

    1. Just open the channel.
    2. Tap on the sharing options in the top bar.
    3. Select the QR code option.

    Once it’s generated, you can effortlessly invite others to follow the channel with just a quick scan. The feature should roll out to more users in the coming weeks.

    In my opinion, QR codes are a way smoother way to share not only channels but everything compared to “old-school” links. To be honest, I always go for a QR code if it’s an option — especially as an iOS user (copying and pasting on iOS can be a real pain, but let’s save that rant for another time), so hopefully the feature will roll out on iOS as well.

    So, with this new feature, instead of messing around with copying links and sending them through texts or emails, you can just flash a QR code on your screen and let others scan it. This works perfectly in face-to-face situations where people can quickly scan and skip all the extra steps. Once scanned, the code takes them straight to the channel, where they can check out the content and follow it with a single tap.

    In other WhatsApp updates, voice message transcripts are finally making their way to the app. And that’s not all — WhatsApp is turning up the color with a new test feature that adds themed icons for contacts and group chats.

  • Spotify launches new platform to support publishers and authors

    Spotify launches new platform to support publishers and authors

    Spotify for Authors is a new platform for authors and publishers that allows them to manage their presence and grow on the streaming service. The new platform offers access to multiple tools that make it easier for authors and publishers to understand their audience and drive more consumption.

    Authors invited by publishers on Spotify for Authors will be offered direct access to important insights, along with growth and promotional tools that will help them tap into larger audiences, including:

    • Aggregated age and gender demographics that provide more insight than ever before, to let them know who is listening to their content on Spotify.
    • Redemption codes to share royalty-free copies of titles with reviewers, superfans, and collaborators (if enabled by their publishers).
    • Promo cards to generate professional and shareable social assets for their titles in just one click.
    • Early access to author profiles, a new feature rolling out to Spotify so fans can easily discover more about the authors behind their favorite books.
    Starting today, publishers and select authors can begin using these insights into listener demographics, take advantage of tools for marketing and promote their titles, as well as customize their author page on Spotify using the features above.

    According to Spotify, the company worked closely with authors and publishers to develop Spotify for Authors, allowing the streaming service to design each feature based on their feedback and needs.

    “Today’s launch is just the first step as we help authors and publishers reach new audiences, connect more deeply with their fans, and drive listening,” explains Spotify in a blog post.

    Spotify for Authors is now available in all markets where the streaming service is officially accessible. Publishers can access Spotify for Authors with their Spotify logins and can invite authors to join at authors.spotify.com.

    It’s also important to mention that Spotify confirmed it will expand access to authors using Findaway Voices early next year.

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