The Ministry of Information Technology has unveiled the Beep Pakistan communication app, designed exclusively for government employees across 41 federal ministries and departments.
This innovative app is slated for eventual public release and aims to offer a secure alternative to existing platforms like WhatsApp and other social media apps. Beep Pakistan boasts a range of features such as audio and video calling, as well as video conferencing.
Notably, it also provides a secure channel for the transfer of sensitive government documents. Initially launched for federal authorities, the app’s scope will expand in its second phase to encompass provincial levels.
Following its adoption by government employees, the app will eventually be available to the general public. This landmark initiative positions Beep Pakistan as the country’s maiden indigenous social media application.
The government underscores the heightened security of Beep Pakistan due to its server’s location within the nation, setting it apart from alternative platforms. Moreover, the app’s source code will be hosted within Pakistan.
The development of the app’s connectivity has been realized through 83 new projects, backed by a substantial investment of Rs. 79 billion. The launch event for the Beep Pakistan app was graced by senior officials from the Ministry of IT, including Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Syed Amin Ul Haque.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Haque said that the app’s potential to eliminate risks of audio and video leaks. He also highlighted the establishment of three new incubation centers over the past four years.
The minister also shared that Pakistan now hosts 33 companies engaged in smartphone manufacturing, and international giants have also set up mobile phone production in the country. “From a meager $1 billion in 2020, IT exports have surged to $2.6 billion. He set an ambitious goal of elevating IT exports to an impressive $15 billion,” he added.