ISLAMABAD: Since implementation of PTA’s Device Identification Registration & Blocking System (DIRBS) the use of fake, sub-standard mobile devices being imported via informal and illegal channels has been stopped. The PTA shared the data and stated that the import of smartphones in 11 months of 2019, as of Nov 30, stands at 7.64 million. In comparison, the import of smartphones in 2018 (Jan-Dec) was 7.24 million.Apart from smartphones, other devices having 3G and 4G technology functionality, such as IoT, dongles, tablets etc., imported in 2018 (Jan-Dec) were 4.82 million, whereas in 11 months of 2019 (Jan-Nov), 7.11 million devices have so far been imported.Furthermore, 4G devices connected to mobile operator’s networks have increased from 18 percent in January 2018 to 31 percent as of Nov 2019. Whereas 3G devices connected to their networks have decreased from 19 percent in January 2018 to 13 percent as of Nov 2019. This reflects that users are preferring to migrate/utilise 4G-based devices over 3G.Contrary to certain media reports, the mobile broad band (BB) penetration has also increased from 51.8 million subscribers in Jan, 2018 to 76.4 million in Nov, 2019 showing an increase of 24.6 million (47.49 percent) due to increased usage of smartphones. It is also important to mention that 4G smartphones are being sold in Pakistan from PKR6,450 to 11,000.
12-17-2019, 07:02 AM
7.64m mobile phones imported during last 11 months
العرض الشجري