In a move aimed at enhancing smartphone accessibility for a diverse range of users, the interim government has announced the launch of the 'Contract-based Smartphones Policy,' set to kick off on January 15 next year.
This initiative will empower individuals to acquire the latest smartphone models through convenient installment plans, a game-changer for tech enthusiasts and those on a budget.
Federal Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr. Umar Saif, took the lead in unveiling this transformative policy.
Following extensive consultations with key telecom stakeholders, the scheme is poised to roll out in the coming month, marking a significant leap towards financial inclusivity and technological empowerment.
Dr Saif emphasised the policy's dual purpose: encouraging responsible financial behavior and ensuring widespread smartphone accessibility. To mitigate potential risks, measures have been devised to protect investors from defaults, including the blocking of mobile phones and, in severe cases, national identity cards of defaulters.
The telecom landscape is set to witness a paradigm shift, as the policy allows companies to directly offer smartphones to customers through flexible installment plans. This move is particularly beneficial for the economically disadvantaged sections of society, opening up avenues for increased mobile broadband usage.
In response to questions from the media, Dr Saif announced another visionary step – the introduction of 'Standardized Quality Measurement Tests' scheduled to take place from January 7 to 10, 2024, across universities nationwide.
