WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used instant messaging services, has officially relocated its operations from Pakistan following the recent internet slowdown.
Official documents reveal that WhatsApp has moved its Content Delivery Network (CDN) abroad, causing notable service disruptions for local users.
Service disruptions reported
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the shift of WhatsApp’s session server routing outside of Pakistan has led to difficulties for users in maintaining connections.
Many WhatsApp users are facing challenges in sending and receiving messages due to the disruptions caused by the move.
Despite the relocation, the PTA reported improvements in internet services across the country. Fixed-line internet services have been upgraded by two tiers, while Pakistan’s global ranking for fixed-line internet speed is currently 139th.
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 initial stages, as the National Space Agency reviews Starlink's proposal under the national space policy. PTA emphasized that multiple technical factors, such as bandwidth, uplinking, and gateways, are being evaluated before regulatory approval can be granted.
