Pakistan Smartphone Usage Reaches 71.6% as Digital Adoption Grows

Pakistan’s smartphone usage has reached 71.6% of IMEIs on mobile networks, reflecting a steady shift toward digital connectivity, mobile services and online communication across the country.

According to the latest economic data, Pakistan’s telecom sector continues to expand as more users move from basic phones to smartphones. The increase is being supported by affordable devices, wider 4G availability, local mobile phone manufacturing and growing demand for digital services.

Broadband subscriptions reached 160.9 million by March 2026, while total telecom subscribers stood at 207.22 million. The figures show that mobile connectivity remains one of the main drivers of Pakistan’s digital adoption.

Local handset production has also played an important role. From January 2019 to March 2026, Pakistan manufactured 161.6 million mobile phones, including 67 million smartphones. This has helped improve access to cheaper devices, especially for low- and middle-income users.

Network infrastructure has also expanded. Around 97% of cell sites now support 4G, while 3G and 4G signals cover more than 81% of the population. This wider coverage has made smartphones more useful for banking, education, online shopping, entertainment and government services.

The rise in smartphone usage is also linked to Pakistan’s growing digital economy. More citizens now rely on mobile apps for payments, money transfers, ride-hailing, freelancing, social media and e-commerce. For many users, the smartphone has become the primary gateway to the internet.

Industry observers say continued progress will depend on affordable data packages, reliable network quality, digital literacy and further expansion of mobile broadband in underserved areas.

 

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