The Asia Pacific is the most dynamic digital landscape in the world, home to the fastest adopters of new technologies and the largest concentration of mobile and social media users. An escalation in online activism, changing cyber dynamics, developments in digital diplomacy and the exploitation of big data are shaping the region's engagement with the world.
- A smartphone revolution in Vietnam is catapulting millions of people into the internet age.
- There are claims that Hong Kong's activist social media culture is under threat after a series of controversial arrests.
- Calls for a greater focus on implementing projects that use simple technology (i.e. SMS) rather than mobile apps in PNG and the Pacific Islands region.
- Cambodia's debate on internet freedom is heating up, with human rights organisations particularly concerned about the country's new draft anti-cybercrime law.
- Mobile apps are transforming how motorcycle taxis operate in Jakarta.
- This blog details five years of – apparently successful – cyber espionage that targeted countries, and their various governmental organisations, involved in the South China Sea (full report here).
- Buoyed by mobile internet growth, digital ad spending in Southeast Asia is booming (i.e. 80% increase in Indonesia expected this year). However, poor infrastructure and a lack of skills in mobile development is holding back the market.
- Following protests sparked by private car ride-sharing apps, China's state media has disappointing news for Uber fans.
- Will higher taxes on 2G mobile handsets move Indonesians to 4G within the next few years?
- Controversial Facebook initiative Internet.org has arrived in Pakistan. Some are sceptical, but others are welcoming the initiative with open arms. One person has even taken to billboarding his gratitude.
- Outside of Asia, (exploiting) selfies from Russian troops in Ukraine serves as a a striking reminder of the value of open-source intelligence (note: this video contains graphic content at the beginning)
