Telecom
The story of Starlink and reality
The story of Starlink’s satellite internet network is not of today. Its beginning was actually in the 1990s; although the reality of today’s Starlink began a new chapter in January 2020, as a result of the then Trump government’s “Clean Internet” policy. This policy had thrown the global internet system into a major risk of splitting into “United States” and “China” networks. Before going into detail in that context, let’s revisit the backdrop of the 1990s.
Starlink and lawful interception
Starlink, an innovative data communications provider, was granted a s. 17 license under the Sri Lanka Telecommunications Act in 2024. The first thing to note about licenses of this type are that they are intended to give certainty to licensors.
OPPO unveils exciting Eid Ul Adha offers with the availability of new A5x in Bangladesh
OPPO, the global technology brand, is ushering in the festive spirit of Eid Ul Adha with a range of exclusive offers for its customers in Bangladesh. As part of this celebration, OPPO has also announced the availability of its newest smartphone — the OPPO A5x (4GB+64GB) — at an attractive price point to complement the festive joy.
realme's performance king 14 5G and 14T 5G launched
Youth-favourite consumer technology brand realme launched its latest powerhouses realme 14 5G and realme 14T 5G in Bangladesh. Designed for users who demand peak performance and seamless experiences, these smartphones are poised to conquer the market with their cutting-edge technology and robust features.
With an economical price, the durability champion OPPO A5x launches in Bangladesh
OPPO, the global technology brand, has launched its latest smartphone, the OPPO A5x (4GB+64GB), in Bangladesh on May 15, 2025, at a price of just BDT 13,990. Standing out in this segment, the OPPO A5x redefines value with its combination of IP65 Water & Dust Resistance, Military-Grade Drop Protection, and flagship-level features. Built for users who lead active lives outdoors, the A5x delivers strength, endurance, and performance in one sleek package.
realme’s performance driven 14 5G Series to launch
Youth-favourite consumer technology brand realme is going to launch its realme 14 5G and 14T 5G smartphones, from the brand’s performance-focused iconic number series, in Bangladesh with exciting pre-order offers.
Promising but demands tuning
The BTRC’s draft reform of the ILDTS policy is a vital step toward a modern, future-ready telecom framework. After two decades of outdated licensing, this overhaul promises a more efficient, competitive, and innovation-driven sector. By phasing out ineffective licenses and addressing key inefficiencies, it sets the stage for meaningful, sustainable growth in Bangladesh’s telecom industry.
What could be the impact on telecommunication sector?
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has taken the initiative to bring changes to the International Long Distance Telecommunications Services (ILDTS) policy, which was introduced 15 years ago. This move must be welcomed as the sector has undergone drastic technological transformation in the last 15 years. The entire landscape of telecommunications has changed fundamentally.
Will irregularities, corruption during past regime really be unveiled?
After the July Uprising, many questions have been raised about what has happened in the information and telecommunications technology sector of Bangladesh in the past 15 years and how much corruption has occurred. As a journalist, I have reported the irregularities I found while performing my professional duties; but during the period of the ousted autocratic government, it was not easy for journalists to get information about irregularities and corruption. Perhaps, the officials of the current interim government are also facing the challenge of getting that information from the past. That is why, despite raising many allegations of irregularities and corruption, very little specific information has come to the public from the government so far. An investigation committee was formed during the current government's period. One or two committees have also submitted reports; but the reports of those committees have not come to the fore.
Where is the telecom industry heading: Who will control it?
The statistics grab headlines effortlessly: “Mobile internet subscriber base declines by 4.4 million.” As the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) regularly publishes data on mobile telecommunications and broadband subscribers, journalists have easy access to these numbers. By comparing data month over month, crafting a market report becomes straightforward. Mobile operators’ officials often provide insights into the business impact of subscriber fluctuations, and at times, analysts react emotionally to the figures without deeper understanding. When such reports make headlines, even the general public, regardless of comprehension, starts worrying about the market’s trajectory.