Pakistan is preparing to launch 5G services next year, which is expected to bring major improvements to mobile phone features and internet connectivity. The government teams up with PTA and the IT Ministry for a smooth and effective. As the rollout is approaching, PTA urged the government to slash taxes for a smooth 5G launch.
The Prime Minister targets February 2026 for the 5G spectrum auction. This marks a key step to grow mobile services nationwide. PTA expects 5G to spur better phone use and digital growth.
Pakistan counts 196 million mobile users now, with 148 million on broadband. Yet fewer than 5% of phones support 5G. PTA calls on makers and leaders to ramp up 5G device supplies soon. High costs could stall user upgrades.
5G opens doors to e-SIMs, NFC e-banking, wireless charging, and smart tools. New chipsets and processors make this work. Zeeshan Miannoor of Inovi Telecom notes 5G chips add $30 to $200 per device. Cameras and speakers stay the same. Upgraded boards unlock e-banking and stronger links.
PMPMA says 40% of users stick to feature phones. Some 10% own no phone at all. Local plants churn out 1.2 million smartphones and 1.5 million feature phones each month. That hits 30 million yearly. Switching to 5G will lift smartphone prices and curb buying if costs stay steep.
PTA warns that heavy taxes on phones and gear slow network growth. Imported parts face 19.5% duties that jack up 5G prices. Drop these taxes to cut device costs. Cheaper phones mean more smart use and web access, plus higher government income from digital fees.
Retired Brigadier Amer Shahzad, PTA director general, stresses early maker prep. Users need low-cost 5G phones at launch time. Steep prices will lock people into 4G or basic sets and waste 5G perks.
5G promises to reshape phone links in Pakistan. Fresh services, quick speeds, and top apps will connect millions better. Real wins hinge on cheap devices, smart policies, and maker action. Tackle taxes and prices today for an easy shift to a stronger digital setup.
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