Apple is expected to introduce a new budget-friendly model, the iPhone 17e, as part of its upcoming iPhone 17 series in early 2026, according to international media reports. The device will reportedly feature Apple’s next-generation A19 chip, promising improved gaming, image processing, and AI-driven performance. Analysts suggest that while CPU upgrades will be modest, GPU performance will see significant enhancement. The iPhone 17e is also expected to adopt the dynamic island design, replacing the older notch criticized in the iPhone 16e, giving it a more modern appearance and better notification handling. Camera improvements may include an 18-megapixel front camera with Center Stage support, automatically adjusting framing during video calls or selfies. Although Apple has not officially confirmed pricing or release dates, analysts predict a February 2026 launch, following the company’s usual schedule. In Bangladesh, the current iPhone 16e is priced around 75,000 taka.

The Bangladesh government has decided to ban the import of cloned, stolen, and refurbished mobile phones to curb illegal trade and protect the domestic device industry. The decision was made during a meeting involving the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the Ministry of Commerce, the Posts and Telecommunications Division, and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). Migrant workers registered with the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) will be allowed to bring up to three phones tax-free, while others can bring two. The government also plans to significantly reduce import duties on legally imported smartphones, currently around 61%, to make them more affordable. Additionally, measures will be taken to align taxes on locally manufactured phones to prevent harm to foreign investments. The new National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system will take effect on December 16, ensuring only phones with valid IMEI numbers remain active. Authorities also warned citizens to use SIM cards registered in their own names to avoid cybercrime risks.

Turkey has achieved a major milestone in military aviation with the successful test of its unmanned fighter jet, Bayraktar Kizilelma. The aircraft, developed by Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, became the world’s first unmanned combat jet to successfully fire a radar-guided beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile at a moving jet-powered target. The test, conducted over the Black Sea near Sinop province, used Turkey’s domestically developed ‘Gökdoğan’ missile and the Murad Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system built by defense firm Aselsan. The Kizilelma’s ability to detect, track, and destroy aerial targets without human pilots marks a breakthrough in autonomous air combat technology. Baykar officials stated that this achievement demonstrates Turkey’s growing aerospace capabilities and positions Kizilelma as the first and only unmanned platform officially recognized for air-to-air combat readiness. The test also featured joint flight operations with F-16 fighter jets, signaling a new era of manned-unmanned aerial collaboration.

India’s Ministry of Telecommunications has directed smartphone manufacturers to preinstall a state-owned cybersecurity app called ‘Sanchar Saathi’ on all new devices within 90 days. The app, which cannot be deleted or disabled, is intended to help track and block lost or stolen phones and strengthen cyber threat prevention. However, privacy advocates and industry experts have raised concerns that the mandatory inclusion could compromise user privacy and data security. Companies such as Apple, Google, Samsung, and Xiaomi have yet to comment on the directive. Analysts suggest Apple may seek a compromise, possibly offering users an installation choice instead of a compulsory preinstall. The government maintains that the app’s purpose is purely protective, but critics argue that the inability to remove it raises surveillance and data misuse fears among users.

The ASEAN Technology Cooperation Summit, held in Kuala Lumpur’s Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, set new participation records with over 2,000 onsite delegates, 50,000 online viewers, and representatives from 13 countries. The three-day event, inaugurated by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof, underscored technology, human capital, and regional unity as key drivers of future transformation. Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to boost research funding and attract global innovators. The summit launched several initiatives, including the Cooperation and Development Summit 2025 and multiple MoUs between regional innovation bodies. Discussions covered emerging technologies, AI governance, sustainable supply chains, and cross-border R&D. Industry leaders emphasized ASEAN’s growing interdependence with the APEC region and Malaysia’s strategic role in digital trade and green industry. The event reinforced Malaysia’s position as a hub for ASEAN innovation diplomacy and regional science collaboration, paving the way for long-term partnerships and policy frameworks.

Shahjalal Islami Bank Limited (SJIBL) is advancing Bangladesh’s cashless transaction ecosystem through robust digital infrastructure, innovative payment systems, and international collaborations. Managing Director Mosleh Uddin Ahmed stated that the bank has developed state-of-the-art internet and app-based payment systems, enabling customers to make secure transactions across merchants, utilities, and wallet accounts. SJIBL has partnered with institutions in India, Sri Lanka, and Singapore for technical maintenance and remittance services, ensuring uninterrupted digital operations. The bank’s new app, Shahjalal TouchPay, and integration with mobile financial services, card payments, and corporate payment systems enhance service quality and accessibility. Customers can now make charge-free transactions via Bangla QR and EFT systems under Bangladesh Bank guidelines. Despite progress, SJIBL faces challenges from rising cyber threats and regulatory complexities in launching new digital products. The bank remains committed to strengthening cybersecurity, customer awareness, and continuous innovation to sustain its leadership in the competitive digital banking landscape.

Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) has introduced the world’s first biometric metal card featuring fingerprint-based security, reinforcing Bangladesh’s move toward a cashless economy. The bank’s Managing Director, Ali Reza Iftekhar, stated that EBL’s innovations—such as the WEAREBL wearable payment device, upgraded Sky Banking app, and multi-network virtual cards—are designed to make digital transactions faster, safer, and more convenient. EBL has also ensured interoperability with mobile financial services (MFS) and e-commerce platforms, while adopting AI-based fraud detection and real-time transaction monitoring to strengthen cybersecurity. Drawing lessons from India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, EBL is developing cost-effective peer-to-peer transfer models and merchant-friendly fee structures. The bank is also promoting digital literacy and awareness to address fraud and social engineering risks, particularly in rural areas. These initiatives aim to enhance customer trust and accelerate Bangladesh’s transition to a secure, inclusive digital banking ecosystem.

Amazon has officially launched its new satellite internet service, ‘Amazon LEO,’ positioning it as a direct competitor to Elon Musk’s Starlink. The company claims LEO is the world’s fastest commercial satellite internet service, capable of delivering download speeds up to one gigabit per second—five times faster than Starlink’s current performance. Although Amazon’s network currently includes only 150 satellites compared to Starlink’s 8,000, it plans to expand to 3,236 satellites in the coming years. The service is initially available to select business clients, including Hunt Energy Network, Vanu Incorporated, and JetBlue Airways, as part of a limited rollout to test network performance and industrial applications. Amazon aims to broaden access globally next year, while SpaceX continues to expand Starlink toward a 12,000-satellite constellation. The launch marks a major step in the growing competition for global satellite-based internet connectivity.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) will hold its first-ever auction of the 700 MHz radio frequency band on January 14, aiming to expand the country’s telecommunications capacity. The announcement was made by Fayez Ahmed Tayyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser on posts, telecommunications, and IT, who described the move as a major milestone for the sector. The 700 MHz band, valued at around Tk 11,000 crore, has long remained unused due to regulatory and technical challenges. Joint efforts by BTRC, the Posts and Telecommunications Division, and the Ministry of Finance have paved the way for the auction. The spectrum is expected to enhance 4G and 5G network coverage, improve indoor connectivity, and expand rural access with fewer towers. Globally known as a high-value and strategic band, the 700 MHz frequency is considered the “golden band” for densely populated countries like Bangladesh due to its wide coverage and cost efficiency.

High-speed broadband internet has reached remote coastal areas of Bangladesh’s southwest, including Mongla in Bagerhat district, under the government’s ‘Establishing Digital Connectivity (EDC)’ project. Over 50,000 broadband connections have been installed nationwide, with 2,382 in Khulna and Bagerhat districts. Schools, colleges, madrasas, land offices, and community clinics in these areas now benefit from improved connectivity, enhancing education, healthcare, and administrative efficiency. Teachers report that multimedia classes and online communication with education offices have become easier, while students can now access online resources more effectively. The initiative, funded by the government, aims to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural regions. Implemented by Circle Network, the project faced challenges due to the region’s waterways and difficult terrain. Officials say the expansion of broadband in these coastal zones is accelerating digital services and improving the quality of life for residents in one of the country’s most remote areas.

Atova Technology organized an 'Industrial Training, Farewell and Appreciation Ceremony' in Dhaka to honor participants who completed industry-based training programs. Chief guest Khandaker Mahbub Uddin Khokon, president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, emphasized that practical training enhances young people's efficiency and confidence, calling such initiatives vital for human resource development. BASIS administrator Hafizullah Khan Liton highlighted the importance of hands-on training for developing skilled manpower in local government and ICT sectors. Manjur Mohammad Shahriar, director of the DEIED project under Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, said the project aims to make youth industry-ready, and Atova’s efforts align with that goal. Other guests, including Robiul Islam Noyon and Raushan Kamal James, praised Atova’s contribution to IT skill development. CEO Ferdous Alam stated that Atova’s mission is to prepare youth for real-world industry work and expand training and career support programs in the future.

Starting December 16, Bangladesh will automatically deactivate all unregistered mobile handsets as part of a new regulatory measure by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). The initiative aims to curb the use of illegally imported, cloned, or smuggled phones. However, BTRC clarified that mobile phones already in use or purchased before December 16 will not be affected. Only officially approved and legally imported devices will be allowed to connect to local networks. Consumers are advised to verify a phone’s legality before purchasing from any source, including retail or online stores, and to keep purchase receipts. Phones deemed legitimate will be automatically registered under the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system. For phones bought or gifted from abroad, users will initially have network access but must submit required information online within 30 days for verification to remain active.

Pakistan has successfully conducted a test of an indigenously developed anti-ship ballistic missile capable of striking targets on both land and sea with high precision. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the missile features state-of-the-art guidance and advanced maneuvering capabilities, enhancing its ability to evade enemy radar. The test, observed by Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf along with senior scientists and engineers, marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s defense technology development. The ISPR described the launch as evidence of Pakistan Navy’s technological competence and its steadfast commitment to safeguarding national interests. This test follows another successful trial two months earlier of the domestically produced Fatah-IV cruise missile, which has a range of 700 kilometers. Analysts suggest the new missile will significantly boost Pakistan’s naval strike capability and deterrence posture in the region.

Malaysia is set to prohibit social media use for individuals under 16 years old starting next year, following similar moves by Australia and several European countries. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that the cabinet has approved the measure as part of broader efforts to protect young people from cyberbullying, scams, and sexual harassment. The government plans to implement electronic age verification using ID cards or passports. Additionally, Malaysia will require major social media and messaging platforms with over eight million users to obtain licenses beginning in January. These platforms must comply with age verification, content safety, and transparency regulations. The initiative aligns Malaysia with global efforts to make the internet safer for children and families, while also tightening oversight of digital platforms.

Sharmin S. Murshid, adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government on social welfare and women and children affairs, has expressed concern over the growing insecurity women face in cyberspace. Speaking at a national dialogue on ending online harassment of women, held at the China Friendship Conference Center, she emphasized that while technology advances, societal attitudes will determine its impact. Murshid cited data showing that 59% of women internet users face online harassment, with 90% reporting incidents, but weak enforcement of existing laws allows offenders to act with impunity. She announced that her ministry’s quick response team will reach victims within 24 hours. Senior officials and international representatives from Australia, Sweden, and UN Women stressed the need for stronger laws, institutional coordination, and public awareness. They noted that less than 40% of countries have legal protections against cyber harassment, leaving 1.8 billion women and girls vulnerable. The dialogue was part of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign.