Karachi: Google’s Think Apps 2024 event, held today in Lahore, convened nearly 350 of Pakistan’s premier developers and global tech leaders to spotlight AI-driven growth within the nation’s burgeoning app industry. The summit focused on equipping local developers with AI tools to advance innovation, drive economic growth, and sustain the sector’s expansive trajectory.
According to Google, the Access Partnership’s latest Economic Impact Report highlights that Pakistan could boost its annual revenue potential by $6.6 billion by 2030 through digital exports, particularly in the gaming and app sectors. Pakistan’s app industry has flourished with a 32% compound annual growth rate in global downloads of locally-produced apps from 2018 to 2023, despite a slight dip in downloads last year. However, in-app purchase revenues have surged by 50%, demonstrating the sector’s resilience and growing profitability.
Google announced several initiatives aimed at fostering talent and supporting developers in Pakistan. The Game Design Masterclass will engage top game developers in a six-month program focusing on creating high-quality games. Additionally, the Google Ads Academy will provide in-person marketing training in Lahore and Islamabad, while the Build with AI and Cloud AI Study Jams will offer hands-on training in AI and cloud technologies, building on the success of prior programs that trained over 9,300 developers.
These efforts are part of Google’s broader commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s app industry through critical skill development and global networking opportunities, such as participation in the Google Developer Conference in the US and various APAC summits. This strategic approach is designed not only to foster local talent but also to connect them with global peers, encouraging a free exchange of ideas and innovations.
Google’s Director for Pakistan, Farhan S. Qureshi, emphasized the high potential of the local gaming and app industry, noting the significant contributions of Pakistani studios like Vyro.AI, Hazel Mobile, Games District, GeniTeam, and Finz Games. These studios are not only achieving millions of daily downloads but also providing substantial employment and gaining international acclaim. Qureshi highlighted that Think Apps 2024 reaffirms Google’s dedication to empowering Pakistani developers with AI-enhanced tools and resources, aiming to boost the economy through increased digital exports and high-value job creation.