The interim government of Pakistan has introduced a unique initiative, set to kick off on January 12, 2024. This initiative, announced by Umar Saif, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology, involves telecom stakeholders and offers the public the opportunity to purchase iPhones through convenient installment plans.
Dr. Saif, who initially revealed the collaboration with telecom partners in October 2023, emphasized the pressing need for such a program. Despite the widespread use of mobile phones in Pakistan, the high cost of premium devices often places them beyond the financial reach of a significant portion of the population.
The primary objective of this initiative is to make the latest smartphone models, including iPhones, accessible to a broader audience through affordable and structured installment plans. To ensure the responsible handling of financial commitments, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will implement the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking Systems (DIRBS). This system has the potential to block handsets in cases of defaulting on installment payments.
Dr. Umar Saif underscored that this policy aims to promote responsible financial behavior while simultaneously expanding smartphone accessibility across diverse income brackets. The inclusion of iPhones in this offering is a notable aspect, demonstrating the government’s commitment to providing a wide range of options to the public.
Telecom companies are set to play a pivotal role in the execution of this initiative. By directly providing smartphones to consumers through structured installment plans, these companies will contribute significantly to extending the benefits of mobile broadband, particularly to lower-income segments of society. This move is expected to bridge the digital divide and empower more individuals with the advantages of modern technology.
