Easypaisa Gets Competition: UBL Omni

UBL comes with up with a different from conventional banking service, similar in nature to “Telenor EasyPaisa” but all mobile networks are supported with UBL Omni service.
UBL Omni is branchless banking service by UBL, which means user does not have to go to UBL bank branch to avail banking services.
It does not mean that UBL Omni comes with limited service, all regular banking services are available for UBL Omni account holders like money withdraw, deposit, transfer, mobile cards and bill payments, electricity gas telephone bill payments, Web-portal access, SMS services, Wap services, UBL branch support, Visa card, ATM etc.
All above services of UBL Omni account holders are available, and everyone with CNIC, Mobile Phone (Number) can become UBL Omni account holder with Rs. 500 of cash deposit.
UBL Omni account holders can visit UBL Dukaan to avail their services.
What is UBL Dukaan
UBL Dukaans are just like easypaisa outlets, and they offer following services:

• Account Opening
• Cash Deposit
• Cash Withdrawal
• Utility Bill Payments*: Customers can visit UBL OMNI Dukaans to pay their utility bills.
• Prepaid mobile Airtime purchase
• Postpaid mobile bill payment
• Domestic Remittance

*Bills of the following utility companies can be paid at OMNI Dukaans:
a. PTCL
b. SSGC
c. SNGPL
d. KESC
e. HESCO
f. FESCO
g. IESCO
h. QESCO
i. KWSB
(Remaining companies will be added shortly.)
Where you can find a UBL Dukaan?
Unfortunately, we don’t have a list of UBL Dukaans, neither we have any figure about number of total UBL Dukaans in the country. With branch-less banking, number of outlets/UBL Dukaans is going to be crucial – in terms of easy access for customers.
How to Open UBL Omni Account?
To get a UBL Omni account, visit any UBL Dukaan with your Mobile, CNIC and deposit money – that’s it.
You will receive confirmation SMS in real time with details of your account – along with you will be given a copy of recipient.
Within one business day your account will be activated and upon account account activation you will receive another confirmation SMS from number 8257. Than you can start using your UBL Omni account.
Start using your UBL Omni account with UBL Wap, Web or SMS banking.

• UBL Web portal https://www.ubl.com.pk/ebank
• For SMS banking details visit https://www.ubl.com.pk/omni/ServicesSMS.aspx

Note: You must maintain minimum of Rs. 500 balance in your account, and 25Rs are monthly charges + services usage charges.
Omni customers can also get Omni Visa card with following additional charges
Like Telenor’s easypaisa servcie, non UBL Omni account holders can also send, receive money by visiting UBL Omni Dukaan
Money sending and receiving process for UBL Omni account holders is as following;
Sending Process
1. Visit any UBL Omni Dukaan with original and a copy of your CNIC to initiate the money transfer.
2. Provide the following details to the UBL Omni Dukaandar which is required for sending money:
a. Your CNIC number
b. Your mobile number
c. Your name
d. City where you are sending money
e. Receiver CNIC number
f. Amount
3. You can also provide the following but these are not necessary requirement for sending money:
a. Receiver name
b. Receiver mobile number
4. UBL Omni Dukaandar will enter the details on his mobile and ask you to submit a copy of your CNIC which he will         keep for submission to UBL
5. On successful transaction you will receive an SMS on the mobile number you provided which will contain a 16 digit       reference number for this transaction. It is VERY important that you provide your own mobile number as:
a. This reference number will be required by the beneficiary to collect the funds
b. This reference number will only be sent on the mobile number
6. UBL Omni Dukandaar will also handover a printed transaction receipt containing all the transaction details. Please       keep this slip safe until the beneficiary has successfully collected the funds.
7. Communicate the 16 digit reference number you received on your mobile to the beneficiary.
Receiving Process
1. Beneficiary can visit any UBL Omni Dukaan to collect funds by presenting the following:
a. Own CNIC number
b. 16 digit reference number
c. Copy of own CNIC
2. UBL Omni Dukaandar will verify the availability of original CNIC with the beneficiary and initiate the transaction.
3. On successful execution of the transaction, a confirmation SMS is sent to initiator and beneficiary mobile number       (if provide initially)
4. UBL Omni Dukaandar will hand over the transaction slip and cash to the beneficiary
Sending/Receiving Charges

• Utility Bill Payment: Free
• Mobile Voucher Purchase: Free
• Mobile postpaid Bill Payment: Free
• Omni money Transfer: 3.35% of the transaction amount (Min. transfer amount Rs. 500)
• Cash Withdrawal: 1.5% of the withdrawal amount

Fore more details of charges: https://www.ubl.com.pk/omni/charges.aspx
Easypaisa Vs UBL Omni: Before we compare both the service (in next post), we would like to hear from our readers, what  they have to say about both the services, even if they are comparable or not?

Ufone Banai Lakhpati: Lottery Scheme

After Mobilink’s SMS Khazana, Ufone has started a similar sort of lottery called”Ufone Banai Lakhpati.
Ufone users will have send a blank SMS to 728, answer a quiz and enter Lucky Draw. Ufone says it has a Bumper Prize of Rs. 500,000 while 10 users will be getting 100 Free Minutes every day.
Bumper Prize will be given at the end of the competition 21st May 2010.
Users will get FREE wallpapers for every entry they make.
SMS Charges: Rs. 10 + Tax / Entry
Terms and Conditions:

• All entries received after the mentioned period will not be processed. Contest will be open to both Pre-paid and post-pay subs. Prize of Rs. 500, 000 will be given by Ufone through service centers across Pakistan. Prizes will not be exchangeable, transferable or redeemable in any other form for any reason.
• Ufone reserves the right to draw reserve winner to substitute any winner subsequently found to be disqualified.
• Ufone reserves the rights to publish the winner’s names and pictures for marketing campaigns or press releases.
• The wining subscriber will bear all forms of taxes.
• The subscriber will be notified that the tax will be deducted from the award money.
• This promotion is not open to employees, service providers, agencies and third party staff/facilitators of Ufone or any person directly or indirectly involved in the running of this promotion.
• Cash Reward needs to be collected inside 30 days.
• Winners will be notified by phone and SMS with Sender ID of Ufone in case of SMS or CLI of 333 for latter.

PTA Suspends License of Redtone Telecommunications

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has suspended the LDI license of Redtone Telecommunications (Pvt.) Ltd on account of concealment of minutes pertaining to the international incoming traffic.
According to the details Redtone Telecommunications was issued a Long Distance & International (LDI) license. Under the license conditions, the company was supposed to deposit Access Promotion Contribution (APC) for Universal Service Fund (USF) on the total number of minutes of international incoming traffic.
The details of international traffic (CDR) for the month of October 2009 provided by Redtone Telecommunications were compared with the CDR of licensee’s interconnect partner (access provider) and the analysis of these CDRs highlighted discrepancy in minutes terminated on mobile network which were not found in the licensee’s CDRs.
The decision was passed pursuant to the Show Cause Notice issued to the company by the Authority on March 1, 2010 in response to which the company could not satisfy the Authority during the hearing thus resulting in the immediate suspension of the LDI license of the company.

Mobilink Celebrates Earth Day with a Nationwide clean-up Drive

Mobilink launched a nationwide drive as part of the “Earth-Day” celebrations to reinforce the importance of keeping the Earth clean.
Earth Day is celebrated globally on 22nd April to inspire awareness and appreciation for the earth’s environment. The Mobilink Foundation Torchbearers carried out an elaborate environment-cleaning activity of prominent places in some of the major cities in Pakistan.
Director Corporate Social Responsibility Omar Manzur, stated, “Inspirational activities that are environment-friendly are considered to be an investment towards ‘Saving the Earth’. We are grateful to the young participants and teachers from The Citizens Foundation chapters in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Hyderabad, who joined our volunteers to clean-up numerous prominent locations across the country”.
Mobilink’s Earth-Day initiative aims to help in creating mass awareness about the importance of ecological sustainability. Hundreds of TCF students joined the Mobilink Torchbearers, to clean up the areas around Rawal Lake in Islamabad, Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore, D-ground in Faisalabad, Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi and Rani Park in Hyderabad.
As Pakistan’s largest private sector organization, Mobilink has a history of environment friendly CSR efforts. Amongst key initiatives are the manufacture and free distribution of school bags from outdated billboard skins to more than 30,000 students of CARE Foundation, refurbishing obsolete cell phones for distribution among physically challenged citizens.

PTA Organizes 2nd National Workshop on Telecom Reporting

Group Photo of participants of 2nd National Workshop on Telecom Reprorting organized by PTA. Chairman PTA, Dr. Mohammad Yasin, Member (Finance), Syed Nasrul Karim Ghaznavi and Member (Technical) Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar are seen along with other PTA officials and reporters

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) organized 2nd National Workshop on Telecommunication Reporting here today.
Chairman PTA, Dr. Mohammed Yaseen presided over the event while Member (Finance) PTA, Syed Nasrul Karim Ghaznavi, Member (Technical) PTA, Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar, Director Generals and other officials of PTA and representatives from print and electronic media participated in the workshop.
The objective of this workshop was to apprise the media persons on the mandate and responsibilities of the telecom regulator as well as on the regulatory environments in telecommunications of Pakistan. This workshop was aimed at enhancing the skills of media professionals on telecom reporting.
During the workshop, Director Generals of various Divisions of PTA gave presentations to the participants of the workshop, which included records of the performance, achievements, goals and objectives of each division of PTA. These presentations covered areas such as Telecom Laws and Regulations, Tariff Regulations/APC/Interconnection, QoS Surveys/SIM Information System 668, Consumer Complaints/Regulations on Unsolicited SMS/SPAM, Licensing Regimes/3G, 4G and MVNO.
On this occasion, Chairman PTA said that the core idea behind organizing this workshop is to highlight the fact that how the media can be effectively utilized to further strengthening the organizations like PTA in particular and democratic atmosphere of the country in general. “In my view, media can do this through exposing the good and bad things of state departments in their contents” he said. “Another important area which should be focused is to buildup a clear understanding of the rules and regulations and working environment of the concerned departments while reporting on a particular area or subject” said Chairman PTA adding “we hope that our efforts would prove to be fruitful and beneficial for both the sides.”
Dr. Yaseen said that Pakistan has emerged as one of the leading markets in telecommunications during past few years. A rapid growth in telecommunication technologies has further multiplied the development of this sector. This spectacular growth in telecom sector has made an efficient regulatory system of immense importance to cope up with the ever arising challenges, he added.
The Chairman said that PTA as the regulator of telecom sector is well prepared, established and skilled not only to face these challenges effectively but has also successfully maintained high levels in order to compete with the international regulatory trends. He said that all the tokens of appreciation and recognition which we received from international bodies like Lirne Asia are evident of PTA’s brilliant performance as the telecom regulator of Pakistan.

Breaking: PTCL Acquires Maxcom

Maxcom, a leading broadband internet service provider in Karachi and Hyderabad, is acquired by PTCL, told us reliable sources within the company and further confirmed by Umair Mohsin, a fellow blogger.
Maxcom is known for its customer support and better quality of service. It has more than 10,000 DSL subscribers in Karachi and Hyderabad.
When checked, Maxcom didn’t comment on the situation while we could not reach PTCL’s spokesperson to know the official viewpoint on this.
Sources say that official announcement will be made in a month’s time. No words yet on the value of the deal. No words either on if Maxcom will retain its brand name after the acquisition or not.
Maxcom customers will get a higher portfolio when shifted to PTCL; however, they may have to bear the notorious customer support from PTCL

Khosa Terms PTCL’s Privatization Totally Fair

Tussle over PTCL’s privatization continues, after Senator Waqar Ahmed Khan’s statement yesterday, where he had said that there was no contractual obligation to transfer titles of the state-land where PTCL offices stand to private investors, today Advisor to the Prime Minister on Information Technology Latif Khosa stated that there is no ambiguity in Privatization of Pakistan Telecommunication Limited (PTCL) and its Privatization was totally transparent and fair.
During briefing to National Assembly Standing Committee on Information and Technology, he said, no one can offer such amount, which was offered by Etisalat for Privatization of PTCL in 2005.
26 Percent shares of PTCL were sold to Etisalat in March 2005, he said, adding that, 9 companies were interested in Privatization of PTCL out of which 3 including Etisalat of UAE, China Mobile of China and Singtel of Singapore were short listed.
Etisalat had offered 2.59 billion, China mobile 1.40 billion and Singtel 1.16 billion for 26 Percent shares of PTCL, he said.
Government of Pakistan, he said, has majority shares in PTCL.
Via Online

HEC to Get 10 Gig Internet from PTCL

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) have entered into an agreement for provisioning of 10 Gigabit Premium Internet Bandwidth Connectivity, said a press release.
This is the largest Internet Backbone Connectivity ever acquired by any organization in the country, said the statement.
The state-run telecom utility is the main provider of premium Internet bandwidth to the commission, which in turn provides the internet services to universities along with other Internet Protocol facilities, including videoconferencing, digital libraries and access to the international education and research networks, it said.
The contract is an integral component of Pakistan Education and Research Network-2 (PERN-2) project, which was initiated by the commission to provide high-speed connectivity to universities and institutes of higher learning across the country.
On the occasion, Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Executive Director of HEC said “The PERN-2 project upon completion will bring HEC at par with any international organization and will give access to the internet cloud, world wide education & research networks, digital libraries within/outside Pakistan, distance learning/video conferencing, unified communication boosting the sharing of knowledge with international students, scholars and knowledge resources”.
Walid Irhaid, President and CEO, PTCL, added that “PTCL has offered this premium IP transit facility keeping in view of its corporate social responsibilities to the education sector of the country. PTCL is the only service provider in Pakistan having the capability to provide the required volume of internet bandwidth because of its partnerships in multiple international submarine cables’, its robust countrywide transmission network and state of the art IP infrastructure.”
On this occasion HEC & PTCL expressed desire for expanded future co-operation in the best interest of the country and its positive impact on the education & social sectors of Pakistan.

Wateen Eyeing Agriculture, Energy Sectors

Abu Dhabi Group is considering some options in agriculture and power sector while on the hospitality front things have slowed down following the negative image developed by suicide bombing in the recent past. This was stated by Wateen Telecom (WTL) Director Pervez A Shahid while talking to newsmen. WTL Chief Executive Officer Tariq Malik and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.
Shahid said that the Group could have set up its own satellite if circumstances had allowed. The foreign investment in the country has landed in only specific sectors while major areas are still unattended. As a result, Pakistan is left behind in value-addition as compared to the rest of the region, he added.
Wateen CEO Tariq said that the Rs 52 as value of Wateen’s share has been calculated as replacement cost of the company, while almost all brokerage houses have their different valuations about the price of the share, ranging from Rs 15 to Rs 24.60.
About future earning prospects of Wateen, he said that Wateen has sold out only three pairs out of 24 of its 10,000 km long fibre optic, and its total capacity is heavily utilized. Wateen is in negotiations with different companies for selling its rest of the capacity and one can imagine if even some part of the rest of the capacity would be sold out, he added. Moreover, it has outclassed the rest of competitors by winning majority projects offered by the government of Pakistan under Universal Access program in low developed areas. More interestingly, Wateen is conducting a business which no other company is doing in the rest of the country, he added.
It is highly likely that the company’s forthcoming IPO would be over-subscribed following its promising future earning prospects. Expressions of interest by the financial institutions for underwriting its scrip as well as deal of extending credits both speaks volumes about what the financial sector of this country thinks about the Wateen, he added. Wateen would be launching a new software very soon which would double the speed of data transfer on the existing network as compared to current one, Tariq said, adding that majority of data and voice traffic of Afghanistan is also being booked by Wateen over here.
Talking about dismal performance of ‘telecom sector’ on stock markets of the country, he said it was no denying the fact that telecom sector is not being very well represented at the domestic bourses. Only three out of total 26 companies have so far been listed on the domestic stock markets, which was reason that Wateen was warmly welcomed by both brokers and small investors. Therefore, inference should not be drawn from overall telecom sector to the Wateen’s future prospects, he added.
He said that Wateen has decided to raise further equity to the tune of Rs 1,100 million by offering additional 110 million shares with a ‘green-shoe’ option of further Rs 900 million by offering additional 90 million shares both at a price of Rs 10 per share through initial public offer (IPO) to the general public and institutional investors. It is worth mentioning that more than 14 financial institutions, leading banks and strategic investors have already ‘underwritten’ the full issue of 110 million shares. Therefore, there would be no question of ‘under-subscription’ of this issue, he added.
He said that JS Research in its report had shown that currently Wateen has 418 million shares in issue, with Warid Telecom International 79.8 percent and Bank Alfalah 20 percent being the two key shareholders. This IPO is expected to dilute their stakes by 29-32 percent, he added.
Via Business Recorder

Mobilink’s Model Uploaded an Upcoming TVC on Youtube by Mistake

On Mobilink’s request, The content of this post has been deleted.
We apologize from ProPakistani readers for this very rare instance – we assure you that we won’t leave any stone un-turned to bring you the latest happenings from Pakistan’s Telecom and IT industry. However, this particular story had caused very unpleasant results for some individuals; hence removed as a special case.

ZONG Gives UET Students 4-Year Scholarship

ZONG continues its support of technical education in Pakistan with the ZONG Scholarship Program. The Program was started last year as part of ZONG’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.
ZONG selected ten students for the ZONG Scholarship Program at the University of Engineering and Technology in Lahore through which the students would receive their tuition fees and living expenses for the entire four years of engineering school.
The interviews with UET students were held on the campus and students in the disciplines of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Computer Sciences and Engineering were eligible.
This is the second year of the ZONG Scholarship Program which aims to enable talented, deserving young people to acquire quality technical education from one of the most prestigious engineering universities in the country. The scholarship amount covers all academic and related expenses for each student.
ZONG is promoting higher education in Pakistan as a caring corporate citizen and looks forward to working with institutions like UET to help students pursuing professional education. The company also intends to facilitate and provide counselling to engineering students who intend to study telecommunications in Pakistan as well as in other countries.
The emphasis of the ZONG Scholarship will be to financially support students who are motivated in enhancing scientific and technological research. Thus, the students are selected on a need and merit-based criteria. The process was conducted in phases so that the forty or more students who applied for the scholarship were evaluated and then interviewed by a joint steering committee formed by ZONG and UET.
Mr. Salman Wassay, Head of Marketing, ZONG said that the scholarship program created by ZONG was a fundamental part of their corporate social responsibility as helping young people access quality technological education would form the backbone of talent necessary for the advancement of industry and development in Pakistan.
He added that ZONG was confident that the students selected this year would continue to excel in academics and their professional lives.
ZONG has also launched a Location Based Charging solution at UET to facilitate student access to faculty members and fellow students.

Mobilink Launches SMSChat

Mobilink Jazz has introduced a new value added service called “SMS Chat”, through which Mobilink customers can chat anonymously with other Mobilink customers.
This SMS bases service allows you to chat anonymous with a group or an individual in private, like chat rooms – while you can also go one-2-one with any other chatter in private.
Subscription process
To get started simply send the command ‘Chat’ to 636

• When you send this SMS for the first time, you will be asked to create a profile (nick, age, gender and location)
• You will then be sent a list of rooms to chat in

Service Charges

• Subscription: Rs. 15 + tax
• SMS charges: Rs 0.10 + tax / SMS

Public Chatting in Chat Rooms
To take part in a public chat, just select a room from the list of rooms sent to you in response to the CHAT command
Once in a room, you can undertake the following actions:

• Chat with users in a room (Send a message to everyone in the room / receive messages)
• Get the list of users currently in the chat room
• Invite another user currently in the room for a private chat
• Leave a chat room

Private Chatting with another User
To conduct a private chat with another user:

• You can conduct a search for users that match a certain criteria e.g. Islamabad based females of a certain age.
• Enter a chat room and view list of people in the room

In both cases, you will be sent a list of nicks (that matches your search criteria or simply the list of nicks of people currently in the room). You can then invite a particular nick / user to start a private chat.
Searching Profiles
To find users that match certain criteria:

• Send ‘Search’to 636
• The service will ask you to select a search option
• Reply with the search option of your choice
• The service will send a reply with a list of users’ nicks and profiles that match your search criteria
• You may filter the returned nicks using the FILTER command

Service Commands:
To start chatting: Send CHAT to 636 (first time users are asked to complete profile comprising of nick, age, gender and location)
To enter a chat room: Select a room from the list of rooms sent to you when you send ‘Chat’to 636
To chat with other users in a chat room: Simply reply to chat room messages
To get a list of users in a room: Reply with ‘list’to chat room message.
To filter the list of users: Once you have received the list of users in the room, you may filter the results according to some other criteria by replying with ‘filter’.
You will receive a message with options to filter down your search further according to nick, age, and gender. Select the desired option to get results matching filtering criteria.
To leave a chat room: Reply EXIT to a chat room message
To invite another user to a private chat: NICKmessage e.g. koolcat hello want to chat?
To block a user: Reply to user’s message with ‘block’
To unblock a user: Reply to user’s message with ‘Unblock’
To change profile: Send ‘Change Profile’or ‘cp’to 636

Ufone Introduces Data Internet Packages

After Zong’s daily Internet Package, looks cellular companies want to compete in this area too. Ufone has responded with daily, fortnightly and monthly Internet packages with fixed rental (with a cap on download/upload limit).
In daily package, data limit is 2 MB for Rs. 3.99 plus tax, that’s Rs. 2.20 per MB, not bad – but not better than Zong’s one hour deal per day for Rs. 5
Rates:

* 1.5 GB data transfer limit as per fair use policy.
Note:

• Multiple subscription of Daily Internet Package is not allowed within 24 hours of subscription.
• To Unsubscribe Daily Internet Package send to 8804
• Mobile Internet data packages are available for all Prepaid (Sr. 2-4) and Postpaid (only Sr. 5) subscribers on all packages.
• Postpaid subscriber can subscriber/unsubscribe Mobile Internet unlimited Data package by sending SMS “SUB” to 805, call Ufone Help line 333 from their handsets or can visit the nearest Ufone Customer Service Centers.
• Postpaid subscriber can subscriber/unsubscribe Mobile Internet unlimited Data package by sending SMS “SUB” to 805, call Ufone Help line 333 from their handsets or can visit the nearest Ufone Customer Service Centers.
• Prepaid Subscribers can check their remaining data package volume & expiry date by USSD command send to *706# or call 706.
• After Prepaid expiry or Postpaid un-subscription of Mobile Internet Data packages, standard GPRS charges of Rs. 15/- per MB will be applicable.
• In case of credit limit expired or non-bill payment, Postpaid Mobile Internet Unlimited Data Package will also get blocked automatically.
• There will be no change on Mobile Internet data packages if voice package is switched (e.g. from Uwon to Ufone Ghanta Package or change in Postpaid Voice Package etc.).
• Complete packages & tariff details can be pulled by sending SMS ‘info’ to 800.
• Once converted to Ufone Life Value Package, the 500 rupees conversion fee will be put in your balance after deduction of taxes. This means that 424.67 rupees will be available to you for use.
• All charges are exclusive of Tax.
• The packages are not offered on Prepaid and Postpaid VPN packages.
• MMS, Premium URL, Premium downloads OR International data Roaming is not allowed via these data packages.

PTCL Vfone Numbers, Operating Without Registrations

A number of Vphone connections are registered to no one or they are registered against fake ids, and PTA is supposed to be responsible for the situation, as said by “The Nation”
Nation didn’t reveal any figures for number of un-registered VPtcl phone sets, however, quoting a survey’s finding, done by PTA for Wireless Local Loop operators, paper said that there are large numbers of Vptcl sets that are either not registered or they are registered against fake identities due to the non-availability of any registration criteria.
PTA was advised to provide a service like 789 to WLL sector for the registration of Vptcl sets, and must play its due role to curb this issue in its early stages.
The existing procedure for the registration of Vphones is that the franchises of those WLL service take Computerized National Identity Cards (CNIC) form customers and submit them with the PTCL’s One Stop Shop, but such practice was found annulled by the franchises during the survey.
Paper notes:

‘PTCL is the prime responsible for this and it shows the loophole in their system as they have no checks and balances over such practice which is increasing the insecurity among the users and other people of the country,’ sources maintained.
One interesting obstacle in the registration is the attitude of the people as they do not cooperate with the service providers and it is on record that some times customers slapped the staffers of the franchises on the demand of their CNIC for registration.
However, it is required that PTA should immediately devise a procedure to tackle with this issue on permanent basis and it would be better if PTA at least makes it mandatory to register the WLL services through its 789 service.
It has also been found that PTCL does not have call records as far as Vptcl data is concerned, and it is considered to be a serious loophole which PTCL needs to rectify as soon as possible.

PTA’s Quarterly Report Dec 2009

PTA has released its quarterly report for time period September-December 2009. You can download report by clicking this Following links

• Complete Report – PDF Version – 8.7 MB (Right Click and Select “Save Target As”

Chapter Wise:

• Chapter 1: Regulatory Measures – PDF Version: 5.42 MB
• Chapter 2: Telecom Economy – PDF Version: 315 KB
• Chapter 3: Cellular – PDF Version: 350 KB
• Chapter 4: Fixed, WLL, LDI – PDF Version: 490 KB
• Chapter 5: Broadband – PDF Version: 334 KB
• Chapter 6: Telecom in AJK – PDF Version: 227 KB
• Chapter 7: Consumer Protection and Complaint Handling – PDF Version: 203 KB

Jazz Says: Sania Mirza Bhi Apni Hai

Mobilink has created this new art-work that uses Shonia’s wedding to spread its message “Jazz Apna Hai”
PR sent to media says

On the union of Shoaib & Sania, Mobilink Jazz came up with a very interesting ad that congratulates the newly-wed couple and welcomes Sania Mirza in the family by saying ‘Ab Sania Mirza bhi Apni Hai’.

Win a Laptop Daily: wi-tribe

wi-tribe Pakistan launched a customer reward campaign themed “Win big with wi-tribe”, enabling its customers to win one laptop daily for 30 days across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
There are three ways customers are automatically eligible to enter the draw; connect, deposit or activate.
Potential wi-tribers can ‘connect’ to the wi-tribe. Existing customers can ‘deposit’ their outstanding bill or simply ‘activate’ their existing accounts by visiting the nearest wi-tribe outlet, through the Call Centre or by visiting the website (www.wi-tribe.pk).
By taking part in the campaign, the customers will be entitled to a lucky draw ticket, giving them an opportunity to win a laptop.
A raffle draw will be held daily at each of the wi-tribe regions. One lucky winner in each region will get the chance to take home a brand new state of the art Dell Netbook over the 30 day campaign period.
For further details on the campaign, interested customers can call UAN 111 187 423, or connect to www.wi-tribe.pk or simply visit the nearest wi-tribe outlet.

Get Duplicate bill of PTCL Landline on Internet

PTCL has introduced this new service, which allows its customers to get duplicate copy of monthly PTCL landline bill via web.
You need to enter telephone number and Account ID (which can be found on monthly bills).
Point your browsers here: http://dbill.ptcl.net.pk
You will be able to download PDF file of bill – that you can download and save or get it printed.
Launch of this service save customer’s time, where now it’s not necessary for customer to visit PTCL OSS or other office to receive a duplicate bill in case they do not receive their phone bill.
Privacy Issues:
Make sure that your monthly bill doesn’t touch unsafe hands, or your account ID will get revealed. And anyone will be able to download your monthly bill – and can find out your bill details,
PTCL should have provided customers with password/key pin type of thing, so that a customer can change these credentials at his/her will.
Update
Okay we have tested this service, and all you need is the Phone Number (without Account ID) and it will give you all billing details, owner name, address information.
This is a serious loophole – and one can wonder how PTCL people didn’t notice it before going live with the service.

Ufone Super Call Offer is Ending April 30th

Ufone Super Call Offer (that allows Rs. 2.99 per call of any duration – round the clock) is ending April 30th, 2010.
Ufone is charging customers every month in the name of subscription fee for similar package.
Still, customers are happy with the subscription fee – because of hourly calls during the days and night.
By the way, Ufone is not accepting any further subscription for this package, and has announced that only 50,000 more customers can apply for this package. So if you want to get it  – apply for it now.
We are not sure about Ufone’s plan regarding Super Call offer – no words yet on its extension or re-launch.
Check here the package details

PTA Plans 3 More 668 Services in Phases

Few days ago we reported that about 16 million requests have been served through Web or SMS for 668 services. PTA marked this as successful completion of first phase, and has planned another three phases to be rolled out with time, as told by sources.
Phases include:

• Conversion of Connections from NIC to CNIC
• Maintaining of 668 register
• Blocking of Black List

As part of phase II, around 4 million SIMs registered on old National Identity Cards are now planned to be transferred on the computerized NICs from June this year. Sources told that authority is already in process of devising the strategy to achieve this goal.
Most likely, mobile operators would be asked by PTA to facilitate the customer and transfer their SIMs’ registration on the computerized ID card, but the authority itself is not going to establish any sort of facilitation centre for that purpose, sources added.
It may be recalled that total of 11 million SMS requests and 5 million web requests have been entertained by 668, since the official launch of 668 service on October 15th, 2009.
According to the details a total of 0.90m complaints were lodged in response to 668 information system, which reported total of 2.38 million irregular connections.
And out of 2.38 million SIMs, total 0.90 SIMs have been regularized, another 0.5m were blocked and around 0.92m SIMs are pending regularisation.

Mobile Internet at Rs. 5 per Day: Zong

This is probably the most inexpensive mobile internet package by any cellular company. All you need is to pay Rs. 5 and you can use 60 minutes of Mobile Internet (EDGE/GPRS) per day – round the clock.
For instance, you can use 10 minutes in the morning, another 15 minutes during lunch break and remaining in the evening. All you need to care is that your connection time doesn’t exceed 60 minutes’ quota.
Zong’s Daily Mobile Package, that needs to be activated once, will automatically renew every day. So you can browse anytime and anywhere – without remembering KBs and MBs

How to activate:
Activation is as simple as the package, just dial *906# from your ZONG connection and get connected!
Note

• Validity of the free minutes is 24 hrs
• To unsubscribe SMS “unsub” to 909 (unsubscription charges are Rs. 5 +tax)

Following is the Press Release for the offer
ZONG has announced an innovative mobile Internet package – the Daily Bundle – for mobile Internet in Pakistan. The Daily Bundle service offers the most affordable and convenient package for mobile Internet which is a first in Pakistan.
There is a huge market for dial-up Internet in Pakistan, as compared to mobile internet which is relatively costly. ZONG’s Daily Bundle is an attractive package which offers users the benefits of Internet on one’s mobile at a very low cost of Rs. 5+tax / day. It also allows the users the flexibility as they can pay on a daily basis, and most importantly, the privacy of mobile internet – something which the users do not get on a desktop computer. Furthermore, given the increased frequency of power outages in the country, this service offers the convenience of browsing the internet on your mobile 24/7.
Expressing his views Awais Malik, Director Segment & VAS, ZONG said that ZONG is committed to continuous market innovation in Pakistan, and added, “The demand for using Internet is growing in Pakistan, however, the associated cost is an impediment. Through this very affordable package, ZONG’s subscribers will be able to experience fast and reliable Internet service using their mobile phones.”
In order to subscribe to the Daily Bundle, ZONG customers can Dial *906#.
The Customer will be charged a one-time Subscription fee of Rs. 10. Customers will get 60 Flexi minutes, which they can use any time during the day without additional charges. This is a great feature customers have now the power to use mobile internet whenever they want to without paying extra.
With the introduction of the Daily Bundle, ZONG has once again taken lead in the telecom industry by coming up with yet another innovative product for its subscribers. The brand continues to offer subscriber-friendly packages and develops attractive services for its customers so that they can communicate freely without having to worry about cost.

PTA Pushes Celcos for Implementation of SPAM Protection Regulation

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has once again directed all cellular companies to implement Protection from SPAM, Unsolicited, Fraudulent and Obnoxious Communication Regulation, 2009, as told by industry sources.
As per regulation, which is in effect since August 5^th, 2009, cellular companies were required to develop SOPs to detect and filter SPAM calls and text messages.
Cellular companies were also asked to define a DNCR (Do Not Call Register) to avoid tele-marketing calls from those choose not to get tele-marketing calls.
Cellular companies were supposed to make a black list of those subscribers who will violate the rules more than once. On second complaint, one particular subscriber will not be able to get service (tagged with number and CNIC) from any cellular company.
PTA has asked cellular companies to get all these procedures implemented with-in one month.
For reference, you can download SPAM, Unsolicited, Fraudulent and Obnoxious Communication Regulation, 2009 by clicking this link

PTA ‘s Goes Real Hard on Recovery Drive

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is sending out warning and notices to almost every operator for to clear their outstanding dues, annual license fee, R&D contribution, USF contribution, Access Promotion Charge or whatever payment operators hold, told us industry sources and high ups at PTA.
This drive went real hard after PTA was forced give away PKR 3.43 billion to FBR in shape of taxes.
Enforcement department is pulling out long lost files of all licensees to ensure that no one is missed.
On a side note, Ufone has not paid Rs. 150 million fine as of now, instead we are told that company has contacted court to challenge PTA’s directive, though Ufone didn’t confirm it to us yet.
Similarly, many other operators are in litigation against PTA on different issues and are hence not making their payments.
PTA reportedly recovered Rs. 400 million last month on account of APC for USF from LDI operators.
Top out standings Payments include

• Telecard – Rs. 1,102,179,659
• World Call – Rs. 796,724,883
• Dancom – Rs. 1,460,274,252
• Wateen  – Rs. 713,837,498
• Wise Com – Rs. 575,360,381
• 4B Gentel – Rs. 475,668,230

Jazz 1000+1000 promotion: Once again

Now all new Jazz customers, who buy a new SIM or come to Mobilink network via MNP during the course of the promotion can get up to 1000 free minutes and 1000 free SMS as bonus on recharge.
All new sales and port-ins taking place from 10th of April will be eligible for the 1000+1000 promotion.
Note:

• Every month new customers will be given free minutes and free SMS equal to the cumulative recharge of last month.
• Maximum bonus awarded will be 333 free minutes and 333 SMS per month.
• Free minutes and SMS will be given after 10th of every calendar month e.g. If a subscriber recharges Rs. 300 in April then he/she will get 300 free minutes and 300 free SMS after 10th May 2010.
• The free minutes will be available for On-net usage only and free SMS will be valid for all local networks.
• All new sales (including Port In) will get free minutes and SMS for a period of three calendar months.
• The free minutes and SMS will have a validity of 7 days from the date of posting.
• Any recharge shared through Jazz Share will not be considered for bonus award.
• Subscribers can check the balance and validity of free minutes by dialing 123 and pressing 8, for SMS dial *110#.
• It is a limited time offer

PTCL, NBP to Setup Largest Financial Network in Country

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) have joined hands to deploy the largest Financial network in Pakistan.
PTCL will provide an end to end solution with enterprise-wide network connectivity architecture, all necessary hardware, software & management of the network, on the basis of managed services as well as State-of-the-art Wide Area Network. The WAN will be used for various banking applications.
CEO/President PTCL, Walid Irshad during the ceremony held in Karachi said: “NBP is certainly a valuable addition to PTCL’s portfolio of its customers with the best solutions based on the latest technology coupled with unmatched services.”
NBP President, Ali Raza said this is an unparalleled achievement for Pakistan’s banking establishment.
The introduction of this level of technology will not only provide immense facilitation to our customers but also make NBP a technology leader not only in Pakistan but in the whole region as well.
For More read this coverage

Pakistan to celebrate ‘Sab Keh Do’ Day

Pakistan gears up to celebrate the ‘Sab Keh Do’ Day for the second year on April 12, 2010. The Day which focuses on open communication and maintaining relationships is a unique initiative.
The ‘Sab Keh Do’ Day celebrates the importance of self-expression, by encouraging people to express their views and thoughts – just as the tagline suggests. This Day welcomes and encourages all people – children, adolescents, housewives, professionals, workers of all levels, in short, each member of the society – to say what is on their minds.
The objective of the ‘Sab Keh Do’ Day to promote a positive change in society by paying attention to open lines of communication, honesty, creativity and increased dialogue among the public. Research has shown that poor communication fosters misunderstandings, impaired trust, disagreements, ill feelings and conflict among people. Sab Keh Do aims to create a culture of honesty and respect, and promotes love and peace, by encouraging people to express their feelings openly, clear misunderstandings and build positive communication.
In an increasingly globalized world, with the facilities of modern communication technologies available to us, getting in touch with family and friends who are in different cities or countries is as simple as making a phone call or sending an SMS.
A major activity in the Sab Keh Do Campaign to promote open communication is the Sab Keh Do team’s one-on-one interaction with members of the public. The team visits different areas in the major cities, and talks to members of the public, encouraging them to freely express their thoughts.
The Sab Keh Do Campaign was launched last year, and various activities were held for a month, including painting and essay writing competitions in more than 100 schools across Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. These paintings and essays were also included in the Sab Keh Do carnivals held during the month. The Sab Keh Do team interacted with students and encouraged them to express themselves through paintings and essays. This year, as happened last year, Sab Keh Do activities will be broadcast on all major TV channels in Pakistan.
When asked how she felt about this activity, Saira Ahmed, a student of A’ levels, said, “This is indeed an interesting activity, which not only cultivates talent and creativity in children and but also gives us an avenue for self-expression. There is a need for more such innovative and progressive activities in schools in Pakistan, to foster creativity and healthy competition among children. I strongly believe that this Day, celebrated year after year, will definitely bring about a positive change in society.

Warid Signs Move with PIA

From right Mr. Muneer Farooqui, Chief Executive Officer, Warid Telecom and Capt. Aijaz Haroon, Managing Director PIA while exchanging the documents

Warid Telecom has signed MoU with PIA (Pakistan International Airlines). By the virtue of this MoU PIA will use voice and data communication services of Warid Telecom.
The signing ceremony of this agreement took place at PIA head office Karachi. The MoU was signed between Mr. Muneer Farooqui, Chief Executive Officer, Warid Telecom and Capt. Aijaz Haroon, Managing Director PIA. Mr. Shahid M. Murtaza, GM Corporate Accounts & Enterprise Solutions, Warid Telecom, Mr. Asad Afridi GM Communications, PIA along with other senior officials were present on the occasion.
Commenting on Warid, PIA partnership, Mr. Muneer Farooqui, Chief Executive Officer Warid Telecom said “PIA is the Pakistan’s national flag carrier and we are really pleased for having this opportunity to serve the communication needs of such a prestigious and large scale organization. I am sure we will bring PIA an exceptionally delightful experience. Our priorities include ‘Quality First’ at forefront and we always strive to present the smartest, advanced and customized solutions for our Corporate Sector. Our partnership with Pakistan International Airlines is a great value addition to our Corporate Portfolio. Warid is determined to continuously bring best of the breed communication solutions to optimally serve the communication needs across all segments. I wish Warid and PIA relationship to grow and flourish in years to come, Insha Allah.”
Warid’s GM Corporate Accounts & Enterprise Solutions, Mr. Shahid M. Murtaza said “We are proud to be associated with Pakistan International Airlines. Our relationship will prove successful and beneficial for both the organizations. We are delighted to have PIA’s confidence in us and we are sure the partnership will go a long way.”
Managing Director Pakistan International Airlines Capt. Aijaz Haroon said “PIA is glad to have Warid Telecom (Pvt) Ltd. as its partner in business by way of providing communication services to the national carrier.
With the signing of this agreement Warid Telecom will now provide PIA with voice and data communication services. As Warid Telecom Pakistan has gained success in a short period of time, it is hoped the agreement between the two companies will continue, while we look forward to a long lasting business relationship.” he added.
Gaining the trust of large businesses by offering them quality services and customized solutions, Warid Telecom continues to set excellence benchmarks in Telecom Industry of Pakistan.

Telenor Urges Lower Telecom Taxes

As the budget month is nearing, business entities are gearing up their efforts for lesser taxes, Telecom sector being the worst hit in past is also pushing for the same. Efforts include for stabilizing the taxes, if they can’t be lowered.
For the purpose, Telenor Telenor Pakistan has asked for Board of Investment’s support in rationalizing the taxation structure for the telecom sector to ensure continuous development of the industry.
Head of Telenor Asia, Sigve Brekke is in Pakistan these days and is meeting various high-up at Pakistan Government. In his meeting with Chairman BOI officials he said that Telenor has brought in $2 billion as the largest European FDI in the country and is continuing to contribute in terms of ongoing investments.
Whereas, Chairman Board of Investment Saleem H. Mandviwalla also suggested they should look into the manufacturing of mobile handsets in Pakistan and establish their own manufacturing plant.
He further elaborated on the salient features of the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the benefits that it provides to foreign and local investors with tax breaks, fiscal and financial incentives. A draft for SEZ act has been framed and will be presented in the cabinet very soon for approval

Nokia Announces 5 New Low End Models

Expanding the portfolio of its Entry Solutions in Pakistan, Nokia Pakistan has announced the latest additions to its most affordable device range at their launch event: Nokia 2690, Nokia 2220, Nokia 1616, Nokia 1800 and Nokia 1280.

• Nokia 2690 = Rs. 5000
• Nokia 2220 Slide = Rs. 5200
• Nokia 1800 =Rs. 3000
• Nokia 1616 = Rs. 2500
• Nokia 1280 = Rs. 1900

Note: These Prices may vary in your local market.
Leading analysts around the world believe that it is emerging markets like Pakistan that will lead the future of mobile communications in coming years. By 2015, 83 percent of the global population will be living in emerging markets. As developing world incomes rise, household spending on mobile phones, and the opportunities they are bringing people, grows faster than spending on energy, water or indeed anything else. So where will the next billion mobile phone subscribers come from? Analysts at Juniper research believe that 80 percent or more of all new mobile phone subscribers per annum will come from emerging markets.
Talking about the significance of Pakistan as an emerging market, Imran Khalid Mahmood, Country General Manger, Nokia Pakistan and Afghanistan said, “Pakistan is a market with a growing telecom sector that provides us with many new avenues to bring more affordable and valuable solutions to this market. Most of us take the convenience of using a mobile phone for granted, but for billions of people, mobile devices and services can transform their lives. Many people in emerging markets are using the mobile in more powerful ways than those in the developed world. Their first ever internet experience will be on their mobile phone and services like mobile email are seeing some of their highest adoption rates in developing countries. Nokia doesn’t apply one size fits all strategy to all emerging markets; rather we study the consumer patterns in each market to bring out the most relevant solutions to the market. Making more possible for Pakistani masses, we are now introducing the most affordable Nokia devices to date that offer a great value for money.”
Sharing the details of new entry mobile phones launched, Haseeb Ihtisham, Marketing Manager, Nokia Pakistan and Afghanistan said, “Nokia offers to Pakistani market the widest product portfolio to choose from at all price points. The launch of these new entry devices today, Nokia 2690, Nokia 2220, Nokia 1616, Nokia 1800 and Nokia 1280 adds to the growing entry mobilephone range offered by Nokia. The relevant features packed in these affordable phones are flashlights, calendars, durable keypads and long battery life. Nokia has combined these standard features and add-ons like pleasant form factor to bring to Pakistani consumers a perfect low-cost package.”
The new Nokia entry phones announced today the Nokia 1280, the Nokia 1616 and Nokia 1800 are priced very competitively; with the Nokia 1280 being the lowest cost mobile phone to date. All of these phones are specifically designed for people in non-urban areas who require an affordable, reliable device with practical features like a flashlight, speaking clock, FM radio, dust-resistant keypads and multiple phonebooks. While at a slightly higher price point, Nokia 2690 has added features such as VGA camera, memory card support, MMS and Bluetooth and Nokia 2220 is a slide phone with GPRS, VGA Camera, Prepaid Tracker, MMS and Nokia Xpress audio messaging.
Mobiles will change the world, more quickly, more deeply and more profoundly than any other innovation. Countries traditionally described as ‘emerging’ now represent half of the world’s economy. Businesses and consumers should look to these markets for insights and inspiration into the opportunities which mobile technology can provide. The chance to make a difference to people’s lives is huge and many of these emerging markets are leading the charge for innovation.

Djuice Bring It On – Win 2 Week Trip to UK

Do you love your college? Do you think that it is the most happening educational institute across Pakistan?? And do you have the creativity, style and originality to represent your college life?
Then Djuice is offering you this opportunity to share videos, pictures, poems, songs, SMSes depicting the fun side of your college life.
Through a competition (based on voting and judges’ panel) you can go to an expedition to UK for 2 weeks, courtesy Off screen!

• All you need is to register your account here.
• Check FAQs here 

Contest details:

• Once the content is uploaded, voting lines would be open, so get your friends and family to cheer you on and vote on your content.
• The final selection of content is based on the maximum number of votes and panel decision.

For more details visit: http://www.djuice.com.pk/bringiton/

Breaking: 2 Mobile Companies Want an End to SMS Packages

Two leading Mobile operators are favoring to impose 10 paisa charges on all text messages sent to other networks, while another two operators opposed the idea – fifth operator remained somewhat neutral, in a high level industry meeting held at PTA headquarters yesterday, told us sources at PTA.
These other-network charges (interconnection charges) can be the death of SMS packages, as currently mobile operators are allowing as many as 500 text messages a day for Rs. 4 to 5, which will become impossible with 10 paisa per SMS charge.
Telenor and Mobilink were of the view that due to their larger customer base, they receive highest number of text messages from other networks.
However, industry sources revealed that actual hindrance is network capacity of these two operators.  A good explanation of this fact is that Ufone is opposing the charges, which has somewhat same size of subscriber base as of Telenor.
SMS facility is widely used and liked by mobile phone subscribers in Pakistan. Some researches consider the low priced SMS as key factor behind the fast growing communication trends in the country. Due to its low price and nature of channel, SMS can’t be replaced by any other mode of communication.
SMS lovers were first threatened by Government taxes, which were later on withdrawn by Prime Minister, but now the current regime by cellular operators may put all SMS packages on halt.
It merits mentioning here that Telenor has already slashed their SMS packages by limiting the off-net and on-net quota. For instance, if a SMS package allows 1000 SMS in one week, customer can’t send more than 500 off-net or otherwise on-net messages.
As per anticipations, if regulated, other network SMS charges will be widely opposed.

Police May Get GSM Caller Location Identification System

The police are now in the final phase of acquisition of the technology, known as a GSM Caller Location Identification System. As the name implies, it will allow the authorities to trace which location a cellphone call is being made from.
This will be key in investigating several different types of crimes, but will be particularly useful in kidnapping for ransom cases.
The question of whether or not the police have the authority to use such equipment, however, remains unanswered.
Under the existing arrangements, only intelligence agencies can use, or offer the use of, such technology.
“The police are not allowed to have such a system or technology,” admitted a senior police official who wished not to be named. “We are going through with our plans to acquire the system but we would definitely only use it when it’s mandated to us. Acquisition of such modern and sensitive systems takes time.”
The sources at the Central Police Office (CPO) said that several companies with expertise in the area have shown an interest in helping the police acquire the system, and have already appeared before officials to explain the features of their services.
It should be noted that the police have already been turned down when they requested authorisation to have access to cellular phone subscribers’ data, including records of calls and SMSs, through cellphone service providers.
The intelligence agencies, however, have this authorisation, and the police must turn to them when they require it.
“Under the existing arrangements, for investigations of any case, we need to seek help from the intelligence agencies, mostly through the Citizen-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC),” said a senior police investigation officer.
“If we need data of any cellular connection or personal data of the subscriber, the mobile phone companies don’t entertain our request directly. A set procedure is followed and that’s the SOP [Standard Operating Procedure].”
Though there is no word from the police authorities to justify the move without a go-ahead from their high-ups and security hierarchy, experts involved in handling criminal cases in close coordination with the investigators see the technology as the need of the hour for effective policing.
“We support such a move made by the police,” said Ahmed Chinoy, the chief of the CPLC. “The growing use of technology by criminals demands the same facility for police to counter their designs and major acts of crime. The police around the world are privileged to use such technology. So why not in Pakistan, where we face multi-dimensional security threats along with regular crimes?”
He said the existing arrangements did not suit the investigators, which took time and needed to engage several institutions to get even a single piece of information.
The caller location tracking technology was badly needed, he added, in investigation of almost every kidnapping for ransom case.
“Most of the time, we need to move faster for the security of a kidnap victim’s life, as well as the arrest of the kidnappers,” said Mr Chinoy. “But under the current SOP, the police need to follow certain rules and procedure, which takes times and puts everything, including the life of the victim, at risk.”
To assure proper and legitimate use of the system, the CPLC chief said, a mechanism could be designed that kept a check on the police, denying the opportunity for the misuse of the technology by law enforcers.
“The issue of misuse can be handled through certain arrangements and we can play our role in this regard if required. But one can’t deny the police such a technology or system, which is badly needed, only on these grounds,” he concluded.
Via Dawn

Upside Down: Mobilink Picture

A picture speaks a thousand words, so no further description from our side on following, but just one Question: How in this world this flex went live? Let alone the Printing, designing, proofreading errors…!
This happened in Karachi and was captured by Zaymas

Update:
Mobilink has responded to this post, and said that this is a fake photograph. Mobilink also sent us a recent photograph of same hoarding, which is displayed below.

On-net Call of Any Duration: Rs. 2.99 – Ufone Super Call

A variant of Ufone Solid Offer is back. Now every Ufone to Ufone call will cost you Rs. 2.99 plus tax and there is no limit on Duration of call. This call call rate is for round the clock and with no daily charges at all.
So idea is that any Ufone to Ufone call, of one second, 10 minutes or 50 minutes duration – it is going to cost you Rs. 3.57 (including texes) per call.
This is limited time offer (just like Ufone Solid Offer) and comes with a subscription charges of Rs. 25 plus tax.
How to subscribe?
subscribe to this offer make your Super Call today by just sending 33 in an SMS to 444.
Terms and Conditions:

• This offer is valid for Ufone to Ufone Calls only.
• This offer is available on Uwon, Tension Free, Public Demand & Josh Packages.
• This offer is not available on Bundle offers.
• One time charges of Rs. 25 + Tax will be applicable on availing this offer.
• To unsubscribe from this offer SMS 34 to 444
• Maximum duration of a call will be 59:59 minutes.
• This rate is also applicable on calls made to Ufone friends & family
• Terms and conditions apply
• 19.5% FED on usage and 10% withholding tax at recharge or bill applies.
• Using SIMS without proper documentation is a crime – PTA

PTCL Upgrades its Contact Centers

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL) has upgraded and advanced its contact centers to facilitate its customers.  Now PTCL customers can utilize its services through these contact centers with out leaving their homes or offices.
PTCL has four contact centers one each in Karachi and Rawalpindi and two in Lahore. These contact centers operates round the clock 24/7, 365 days a year. A well trained staff of 1200 personnel ensures quality service and support to our customers at all times.
These contact centers has been upgraded from a previously man-power reliant contact centers and now has taken the shape of advanced and developed process-oriented contact centers. They are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and parameters in place together with efficient and effective provision on the first call resolution.
SEVP Commercial Naveed Saeed remarked that these steps were an effort to ensure that all the customers both in-bound and out-bound, needs were dealt with speedily and effectively. He added that customer facilitation has always been the core objective of PTCL policies and programs.
Besides this, PTCL has also developed an effective online interface through which customers can order majority of products along with the facility of submitting their suggestions and feedback regarding services of PTCL. The web portal will enable customers to manage their accounts and billing as per convenience of their time and location. PTCL is also providing an online complaint form for their customers to register their complaints using web based services.
To improve customer care in the regions, PTCL has also established service support centers through out the country. They serve as a platform for communication with customers, analysis and follow-ups on faults and service provisioning regarding all PTCL services. They have also been engaged in coordination with local exchanges for expediting customer services issues.
EVP Customer Care Jamil Khawaja said ensuring effective customer care is the top priority of PTCL and all steps would be taken to simplify the procedures for our customers to eradicate any hurdles coming in way.

Zong Signs Pact with PACCA

Zong has recently signed an agreement with Pakistan Airline Cabin Crew Association (PACCA) under which it has offered telecom services to PACCA.
Picture shows Rizwan Akhter (2^nd from left), Director advertising and promotions, Zong and Mr. A. Q. Alvi (3^rd from left), President, PACCA, signing the agreement along with the representatives of both the companies.

PTCL Gets Notice for Revising Tariff without Permission

The Pakistan Telecommunication Company (PTCL) increased its local call charges by 50 per cent from February 2010 without obtaining the mandatory permission from the telecoms regulator, claimed Dawn Newspaper.
Dawn alleges PTCL for not properly informing its subscribers about the unilateral decision to revise its tariff as they came to know of the increase when they received the bills for the month of February.
This was the third time when the PTCL arbitrarily revised its local call charges without getting mandatory permission from the telecoms watchdog, the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA).
PTCL opted not to inform the telecoms regulator for this change in tariff, which is otherwise mandatory as landline giant is Significant Market Player. Hence, when the PTA came to know about change in tariff, it issued a show-cause notice to the PTCL, they added.
A PTA official, in response to Dawn’s query said that the PTCL had launched the new tariff without getting the required approval from the PTA and a show-cause notice had been issued to the PTCL for non-compliance of the rules.
He said that further action would be taken on the basis of the company’s response and hearing.
Responding to Dawn queries, PTCL spokesperson Farah Hussain only said that more than half of the PTCL calls were of a shorter duration. The new tariff — Rs. 1 per minute — was intended to encourage those PTCL subscribers who under the earlier tariff perceived the cost of even a one-minute call at Rs2 to be too high and felt discouraged to initiate a local call.
She, however, did not respond to various queries relating to the tariff change, if the mandatory PTA permission had been obtained, if the mandatory public hearing had been organized on the issue, if the public had been informed about the dates from which the change would be effective, etc.

PTCL Smart TV Vs Local Cable Operators

PTCL launched its multiple times delayed, long awaited IPTV project with the brand name ‘PTCL SMART TV’, around 2 years ago. PTCL’s IPTV is largely considered as milestone in achieving the next generation technology for broadcasting TV channels over IP i.e. Internet Protocol on high streams.
In the start, PTCL offered IPTV services on fibre, off course due to bandwidth fluctuations on the copper and later on it is also been offered on copper as well.
As per (un-firmed) internal reports, PTCL Smart TV has around 11,000 customers – as of now.
PTCL SMART TV is equipped with 125 channels covering religious, news, infotainment, entertainment, sports, music, movies, some regional and non-regional channels with digital video broadcasting. Out of 125, most of the channels are covering local Pakistani channels – almost in every category.
While watching TV, you will definitely feel the difference among usual cable broadcast and PTCL SMART TV broadcast.
IPTV Charges:
In a complete SMART TV Package, PTCL gives IPTV STB (SET TOP BOX), XDSL MODEM, remote control and manuals. It costs Rs.500 / month for STB as an installment, however full payment facility of Rs.10000/- is also available for one-time payment of IPTV STB.
Additionally, per month charges of Rs.300 are also deducted in usual PTCL phone bill – this is rental for IPTV services.
If we sum up the charges of DSL and SMART TV, then every single user who is facilitated with PTCL DSL and PTCL SMART TV has to pay Rs.2000/ month (fixed amount) for DSL and SMART TV only. (Rs. 1,200 for DSL, Rs. 300 for monthly rental of IPTV services and Rs. 500 for installation of STB)
In case you have paid Rs. 10,000 for STB in one go, then single user has to pay only Rs.1500/- per month for both services.
Challenges from Local Cable Operators
PTCL IPTV is still growing and a lot is needed to improve in a steadiness. For instance, you just look at the cable TV market of Pakistan, recently, digital cable services have been launched and now cable TV service providers are offering 200+ channels on digital Set Top Box (STB).
The competitive price that is available to customers for using digital cable TV services is about 4500/- as an initial payment for STB and later on Rs.300 as cable TV line rent.
Indeed, it is a threat for IPTV, when talked about the number of channels and prices that are available in local cable TV market.
PTCL IPTV also needs to improve its channels’ type and base, to compete with local digital cable TV competitors, as end user will definitely analyze the benefits that a competitive market has to offer.
Additionally, PTCL IPTV had only 3 PTCL operated Movies Channels, which broadcast movies in genre of Classic, Comedy and Action/Drama. PTCL never plays newly released movies, for all the genres, however, they are ad-free unlike cable TV operators.
Action Items:

• Increase in Number of Channels.
• Decrease in rates to respond competitive cable TV market.
• PTCL Operated movies channels need to improve its playlist
• Video on Demand channels need improvements in its playlist to offer latest movie releases.
• Wherever PTCL goes, service issues remain there; Company must overhaul the complaint resolution structure and methodologies.

Conclusion:
PTCL has indeed added value to the market by offering such services to end users., But with that content selection will multiply the value and the profits.
PTCL IPTV also enjoys the competitive edge as cable TV market is already saturated (particularly in urban areas).

Indigo Talk Fiesta Can Win you World Cup Tour

Mobilink indigo has recently announced a new offer whereby any 3 lucky indigo customers can win an all-expense paid trip to South Africa to watch the World Cup live!
Football is without a doubt the most popular sport around the world, and in Pakistan too, it has developed an expansive fan following. Keeping in mind this growing passion for the sport in the country as well as the upcoming World Cup, Mobilink indigo has launched this amazing campaign to give all of Mobilink customers – new and current, corporate and individual, a chance to win 3 Grand Prizes – Round trip to South Africa including 5-night hotel stay, ground transportation and match tickets!
Mobilink indigo World Cup Lucky Draw will also provide many other exhilarating prizes to all participating indigo customers such as latest BlackBerry® handsets, free minutes, unlimited SMS bundles, and various indigo giveaways. Moreover, all new indigo customers who subscribe to Talk Fiesta will also receive a security deposit waiver (NWD security waiver is applicable on i-400, i-900 and i-1500 packages)
Mechanics
You can gain entry to the Lucky Draw in the following ways:
New individual customers:

• By buying indigo connection and signing up for indigo Talk Fiesta
• Customers will receive security deposit waivers*∙
• Customers will receive upto 100% free minutes with Talk Fiesta

Existing customers:

• By signing up for indigo Talk Fiesta
• Customers will receive upto 100% free minutes with Talk Fiesta
• Customers can also gain entry by redeeming 200 Rewards points Club indigo
• Club indigo members can gain entry by maintaining a bill of Rs 9,000 or more in the month of April

Terms & Conditions

• NWD Security Waiver is applicable on i400, i900 and i1500
• One particular user can not claim / win two similar prizes during the campaign. For example, same customer can not win two tickets at a time i.e. one through Talk Fiesta offer and the other through Reward Points redemption.
• The SIM should be registered in the name of the prize claimer.
• Grand Prize will not be given until and unless all the dues have been cleared.
• Mobilink’s decision will be deemed final in case of any dispute.
• Mobilink Employees, their immediate family members & first blood relatives, Mobilink Franchise & dealers are not eligible to participate in this campaign.
• Limited time offer

For more details about Mobilink indigo World Cup Campaign, log on to: www.mobilinkgsm.com/indigo/indigo_worldcup.php

Ufone Offers Special Rate for Etisalat Afghanistan

Ufone is offering its customers the most economical rates to call Etisalat Afghanistan.
Ufone subscribers can call any Etisalat Afghanistan number for just Rs.9.99+tax with Rs.1.99+tax call setup fee for the first minute.This tariff is almost 40% lower than the previous calling rates.
Mr. Akbar Khan Chief Marketing Officer Ufone said that this offer shall help strengthen the bridge between families and friends across the border of the two brotherly nations and renews Ufone’s commitment to its customers to provide unparallel products & services.

IT Park to be Established in NWFP, says Khosa

Adviser to the Prime Minister for Information Technology Sardar Muhammad Latif Khan Khosa said information technology (IT) facilities would be provided to the NWFP equal to the other provinces of the country. He also conceded to set up an IT Park in the province, which would be inaugurated very soon.
Khosa was talking to a 3-member delegation of NWFP government headed by Minister for Science Technology and IT Muhammad Ayub Khan who called on him.
The delegation requested the adviser that federal government has already started to establish basic IT infrastructure setup through Universal Services Fund in the province but it has ignored the Malakand region, which should be included on priority basis. After the IT infrastructure setup is established in the province the NWFP IT Department would facilitate and provide the different IT-based services in the region including computerisation of judicial, police system and other departments as especially recommended by the federal cabinet for good governance plan, the delegation informed the adviser.
The delegation also told that education system in the NWFP had completely collapsed due to terrorism activities and there is an urgent need for rehabilitation in ICT-education sector. “A separate project for 5,000 university students of Malakand region should be launched through ICT Research and Development Fund, the delegation demanded.
The delegation also demanded the re-initiation of computer labs project in government schools in the province, which was started by Pakistan Computer Bureau and abandoned later on. The delegation informed the adviser that the NWFP had taken an initiative through establishment of the IT Excellent Centre in Peshawar for capacity building of unemployed IT graduates and demanded for complete sponsorship to advance the scope of the project. The adviser assured the delegation to help the provincial government to meet the challenges in different areas where communication system, infrastructure and other sectors have been badly hit by terrorism.
Via Daily Times

Shahid Afridi Becomes Samsung’s Brand Ambassador

Samsung and Shahid Afridi exploring new boundaries. From left Zeshan Ahmed Head of Mobile Division, Samsung Pakistan and Afghanistan, Steve Han General Manager Samsung Electronics Pakistan & Afghanistan, Shahid Afridi Brand Ambassador Samsung Electronics, Injae Lee, Senior Manager Samsung Electronic Pakistan & Afghanistan, and Khurram Farooq, Head of Consumer Electronic Samsung Pakistan & Afghanistan at the brand ambassador ceremony

Samsung Electronics has announced the appointment of cricketing icon Shahid Afridi as its new Brand Ambassador.
This announcement was made at a press conference held by Samsung at a Country Club in Lahore.
Shahid Afridi will be engaged in various media activities and events to promote the latest electronic appliances and cellular devices from Samsung. Afridi enjoys an international fan following, including millions of young active fans and sports enthusiasts, who aspire to use trendy new devices and appliances in their daily lives. Similarly, Samsung is perceived as a successful modern and stylish brand globally. Therefore, Afridi’s sporting personality and trendy attitude truly complements the Samsung brand concept.
The General Manager, Samsung Pakistan, Mr. Steve Han, expressed his anticipation for a dynamic association with this leading cricket star and said, “Samsung is a youthful, active and high-spirited player in the electronics industry, just like the robust Cricketer Shahid Afridi. Together these two iconic players will take fresh initiatives, to win the hearts of all progressive consumers”.
Shahid Afridi appreciated this new status of being Samsung’s Brand Ambassador and said, “It is a pleasure for me to represent a global leader in electronics. Samsung has always inspired me with its fantastic products. Just like the game of cricket, the technology arena is also very competitive, where Samsung has always showed great performance, determination and innovation”.
The truly innovative Samsung products and services – like revolutionary 3D TVs, cutting-edge smart-phones, and an endless store of “Samsung Apps”, reflect the technological advancement of Samsung. Through such evolution, Samsung continues to be among the “World’s most admired companies” of the Fortune magazine.

Buying iPad in Pakistan

Sleek iPad is on sale primarily in United States – but tech enthusiast from Pakistan are already looking for ways to get the device in hands, locally.
When inquired, Apple’s authorized distributors in Pakistan are not giving out any estimated date for iPad’s sale.  Unlike their earlier claims, Media Center PK is not very confident for iPad’s arrival on their stores. iRaffles, Pakmac – no signs of iPad there too.
Online stores, homeshopping.pk and belisctity.com are left the only options for masses to get an iPad.
Homeshopping.PK is already delivering iPads, that’s quite amazing actually. When inquired they said they just got iPads today and are delivering to those who had pre-ordered the devices.
Those who will order iPads today or onwards will get their deliveries by 20^th of April, 2010.
They have all three variants of iPad, as following

• iPad 16 GB – Rs. 64,990
• iPad 32 GB – Rs. 72,990
• iPad 64 GB – Rs. 84,990

Here is the link for ordering online at Homeshopping.PK.
Other online stores are saying they won’t get iPad before July 2010.

Walton Board is Stealing Passwords, Hosting a Yahoo Phishing Page

Walton Cantonment Board,  which is responsible for holding and controlling most posh living areas like Defence Housing Authority, is sending Phishing emails to internet users of Pakistan.
Emails ask users to verify their Yahoo accounts, and pose as to be sent from Yahoo. However, the page that asks for user-name and password is hosted on Walton Cant Board’s official website.
This incident is a clear evidence of lack of interest from government and semi government organizations relating to information technology. This is merely because of those tech-ignorant bosses, who leave IT work on their webmasters, who are hired on references and not on merit.
By the way, phising is chargeable offense, and an Application to FIA will be enough to take the  culprits to the jail. All evidences are provided below.

Beware: Any information entered on this page will be stored on Walton Cant website, and administrator who is involved in this criminal activity may compromise your account.

SECP Approves Wateen’s IPO

SECP has approved the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of Wateen Telecom Limited and fixed April 13, 14 and 15 as dates for subscription of shares.
The IPO is the largest one through which the company will get Rs 2 billion from the country’s stock market thus expanding its paid up capital which has been approved by its sponsor directors.
Wateen Telecom Limited after getting itself listed at the KSE, would be offering its 110 million shares to raise capital by Rs 1.1 billion with a green shoe option of 90 million shares at the face value of Rs 10 per share through an IPO to general public and institutional investors.
Abu Dhabi Group has already approved this strategic decision. Company has posted a profit after tax of Rs 1.018 million by the end of fiscal year 2008-2009, which translates into an earning per share of Rs 4.88.
Via Daily Times

Internet Downtime and Penalties: PTA’s Definitions

Just read one recent RFP of PTA – as authority wants some ISP to provide internet and intranet services to PTA headquarter and its zonal offices. Out of proposed contract we found one very interesting thing, that we want to share with out readers – its about service downtime – and penalties on ISPs in case of downtime.
Funny as it sounds (as we don’t have any such policy otherwise) but the thing that amused me the most was the explanation of ‘Downtime”. Keep reading to know why i said it amusing.
Wikipedia definition of downtime is “a period of time that a system fails to provide or perform its primary function”.
Now, PTA in its recent RFP for award of internet services contract wrote something like this

Maximum Allowable Downtime (Downtime is considered when Both Wireless & DSL are down or degraded services defined below) in one complain or Day will be 30 Minutes.
Downtime is considered if there’s a 50 % packet loss in case of Internet bandwidth and degraded is considered if there’s more than 3 % Packet loss which will be checked by unit of customer and third party software like MRTG.

Apparently – by this authority means that 30 minutes of downtime (per day) is allowable, anything beyond this will be penalized – that’s pretty kind of PTA I would say.
They didn’t stop here though. They have actually put in the penalties in case of downtime. Let’s have a look!

Most you people must be wondering that what’s so wrong about it? There is nothing wrong in here fellas, but just think that how much downtime you get at your own homes? Got my point!!.
Now, tell me how much penalty do you put in on your service provider for the downtime during the month. Zero % I am sure.
But don’t you think that PTA should start similar penalty kind of service contract for customers too. Am I right?
We receive emails from PTCL and Wateen customers, who are suffering down time for days – but there is no one to hear their pleas. And look at PTA, its securing its account so bluntly but no rule or policy for customers.

wi-tribe Gives Away Bonuses

wi-tribe announced bonuses for all of its permanent employees based on their performance appraisals. We don’t know that how much have been announced but our sources have confirmed that its minimum of one basic salary.
About One year in market and announcing Bonus to its employees is bringing impression on people that they are in here for some serious business.

4 Free Minutes After Every Minute: Djuice Pakka Dost

Djuice is offering Din Raat and Jagtay Raho subscribers, 4 minutes free after every minute for FnF (Pakka Dost Calls).
Djuice subscribers on other packages can also get the goods in the form of a minute free after every minute whenever they call their pakka dost.
How to Avail Offer?
Simply dial *345*101# to activate your FnF
Tariff:
Calls to Friends & Family numbers: Rs 0.5 (plus tax) / 30 seconds
Terms

• Limited time offer
• Standard FnF charges of 50 paisa/30 Sec apply
• Apart from din raat and jagtay raho all other djuice price plans get 1 minute free
• 19.5% FED on usage and 10% withholding tax on bill apply

Telenor Cricket Alerts

Busy with your schedule? Cannot sit in front of TV to watch your favorite match? Telenor brings the SMS Cricket Alerts of for any ongoing cricket match right on your mobile.  Stay updated with the latest happening.
For subscription
Send CRI to 120
Alerts Include

• Wicket Alerts
• Match Score
• Match Achievements
• Match Summary
• Match Schedule

Charges
Rs.50+Tax/Tournament
To get score update at any time without subscription, SMS CKT to 120 at Rs.2+Tax

Akbar Khan Promoted as CMO, Ufone

We are just told that Akbar Khan has been promoted as Chief Marketing Officer at Ufone. Earlier, Mr. Khan was acting CMO since August 2009 after Asher Yaqoob had departed to join BanglaLink.
Ufone has confirmed us the promotion of Mr. Akbar Khan.
Before joining Ufone in December 2008, Akbar Khan was head of brands at Mobilink.
Before Mobilink, Akbar Khan was National Marketing Manager at Paktel and happened to be the key man behind the marketing campaign of Paktel’s GSM launch.