WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used messaging services, has officially relocated its operations from Pakistan due to the recent internet slowdown.
Relocation of Operations
Official documents reveal that WhatsApp has moved its Content Delivery Network (CDN) abroad, leading to notable service disruptions for local users.
Service Disruptions
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the shift of WhatsApp’s session server routing outside of Pakistan has caused difficulties for users in maintaining connections. Many WhatsApp users are facing challenges in sending and receiving messages due to these disruptions.
Improvements in Internet Services
Despite the relocation, the PTA reported improvements in internet services across the country. Fixed-line internet services have been upgraded by two tiers, with Pakistan currently ranking 139th globally in fixed-line internet speed.
Mobile network services have improved by three tiers, with the country now ranking 97th globally in mobile internet speed.
Ongoing Talks with Starlink
In a related development, the PTA confirmed ongoing discussions with Starlink regarding the issuance of a license for satellite services in Pakistan. The process is still in the early stages, as the National Space Agency reviews Starlink’s proposal under the national space policy. PTA emphasized that several technical factors, such as bandwidth, uplinking, and gateways, are being evaluated before regulatory approval can be granted.
