Asian Tech Roundup: India Denies Regulation, China Faces Tech Adoption Challenges

This week’s Asian Tech Roundup covers India’s rejection of internet price regulations, China’s slow adoption of data asset listings, and Australia’s Kaspersky software ban. Notable developments include significant investment by Alibaba and Apple’s growth in smartwatch shipments in India, amidst broader issues of cybersecurity and digital governance.

In this week’s Asian Tech Roundup, we report on notable developments in India, China, and Australia. India’s Supreme Court has declined to enforce regulations on internet pricing, despite recent hikes by prominent telecommunications companies. In China, a government initiative aimed at allowing companies to categorize data as assets has not gained traction, with fewer than 300 companies participating. Australia has taken steps to ban Kaspersky software for security concerns and issued fines against Telegram for inadequate responses to queries related to child abuse and extremist content.

In India, the tech sector is predicted to grow by 5.1% this fiscal year, reflecting the resilience of the industry amid external challenges. Meanwhile, Apple’s smartwatch shipments have significantly increased, doubling amidst broader declines for other brands. The Indian judiciary also denied a plea for regulating internet prices, recommending that users switch to public service options, though private providers dominate the market.

In China, Alibaba plans massive investment in cloud infrastructure, amounting to approximately $52 billion. Huaweii is reportedly increasing the efficiency of its AI chips, while Baidu has acquired JOYY’s live-streaming business for about $2.1 billion. Furthermore, the initiative to allow listings of data as assets has had a slow adoption rate, with fewer than 300 firms engaging with the program so far.

In Australia, the eSafety Commission’s penalty against Telegram highlights increasing scrutiny on platforms regarding harmful content. In addition, WiseTech faces leadership changes as non-executive directors departed following media revelations about the founder. Amidst these changes, India recognizes the necessity for innovation within the AI sector to foster new business models.

Noteworthy developments include partnerships in South Korea, where Samsung and its union have agreed on wage increases, and collaborations with Intel. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Vanguard has raised concerns about the inflationary impact of potential tariffs. The dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region are further emphasized by ongoing cybersecurity issues, including arrests related to data leaks in Thailand and fraud cases in Singapore.

The recent updates from the Asian tech landscape highlight significant regulatory decisions in India, slow adoption of innovative initiatives in China, and ongoing security measures in Australia. These developments illustrate the complexities and ongoing challenges faced by technology sectors across the region while also emphasizing the need for adaptation and accountability in the digital age.

Original Source: www.computing.co.uk