The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) wants new OTT rules for apps on the Internet in Pakistan. They are suggesting that these apps should get a license that lasts for 15 years. The draft rules are on the PTA’s website for people to give their thoughts for 14 days.
These apps on the Internet are called Over-The-Top (OTT) services. They include things like WhatsApp and Zoom. The PTA’s rules divide these Over-The-Top services into three kinds:
- Over-The-Top Communication Services (OCS) for talking, video calls, and messaging, like WhatsApp and Zoom
- Over-The-Top Application Services (OAS) for social networks, online stores, online health, online school, and apps like Google Maps
- Over-The-Top Media Services (OMS) for music and movies you watch online
The PTA will sign up and agree to Over-The-Top services, except for media services that PEMRA will manage. The PTA and other groups will watch and take away content. Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) that want to offer OTT talking services must get PTA approval.
OTT makers can also get PTA approval straight for 15 years. The goal is to make rules that help these apps in Pakistan.
PTA Plans Annual PKR 100,000 Fee for Internet Licenses – OTT
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) wants to change how internet services get licensed. They aim to make it easier for more people to start offering internet services and spread broadband across Pakistan.
The proposed changes include giving out licenses at the district level instead of across the whole country or province. They also want to shorten the license time from 15 years to 10 years.
Instead of charging companies a small part of their total income, they plan to set a yearly fee of PKR 100,000, which will increase by 10% each year.
PTA has asked for feedback on their new plan. They want comments from everyone involved, like telecom companies, cable TV companies, consumer groups, and regular people. PTA made these changes because technology and business have changed since 2003 and 2004. They want the rules to match how things work now.
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