Hajra Naz
Pakistan is stepping into a digital future. Big moves are being made in AI, data, and even robotics. From building massive data centers to experimenting with AI-powered DJs, the world of tech is changing faster than ever, and Pakistan is right in the mix.
Mari Energies and the Race for Data
Mari Energies Limited (MARI), one of Pakistan’s biggest oil and gas explorers, has launched a new subsidiary called Mari Technologies. Their first project? Building a 5MW data center in Islamabad, with another planned for Karachi soon after.
This matters because data is now the new oil. Every AI tool, every digital platform, and every app runs on massive amounts of data. If Pakistan wants to keep up with global AI adoption, these data centers are a critical step.
But there’s another side to this. Data centers use huge amounts of electricity and water to stay cool. In a country where power outages are common and water is scarce, many are asking: Can Pakistan handle the cost of running them?
Still, with the National AI Policy 2025 and a Rs10 billion tech investment plan, the government is betting big on AI and digital infrastructure. If done right, this could unlock opportunities in finance, health, education, and defense.
The Rise of AI in Pakistan
Artificial intelligence is no longer a dream; it’s happening. Pakistan wants to use AI in everything from agriculture to urban planning. Imagine smart systems predicting crop health, AI-powered medical scans, and traffic lights that reduce road chaos.
With a strong data infrastructure, Pakistan could become a regional AI hub. Global companies may see Pakistan as a cheaper but skilled market for AI development. Startups, freelancers, and young innovators could get access to better tools, too.
But without stable energy and strong cybersecurity, the benefits may be hard to scale. It’s not just about building systems. It’s about making sure they can run without constant breakdowns.
The Bug-Sized Robots Are Real
Here’s where the story gets futuristic and a little creepy. What if that buzzing sound near your ear wasn’t a mosquito but a robot spy?
This isn’t science fiction anymore. DARPA, the U.S. military’s experimental research agency, has been building insect-sized machines and even cyborg bugs. These micro-drones are designed for missions where larger drones can’t go, such as sneaky surveillance, disaster recovery, or exploring unsafe zones.
Harvard’s RoboBees flap their wings faster than a hummingbird, flying through tight spaces and even swimming underwater. “Robo-jellies” float under the sea like spies. Cockroach-like robots crawl through rubble after earthquakes. In some labs, actual insects are wired to become remote-controlled scouts.
Depending on who controls them, these bots could save lives in search-and-rescue missions or raise huge questions about privacy and surveillance. Either way, the future of robotics is going to be much buggier.
Google’s AI Wants to Be Your DJ
Now let’s switch gears from bugs to beats.
Google’s YouTube Music is testing AI-powered DJs through its Labs program. Think of it like a smart radio host built into your playlists. These AI DJs can tell stories, drop fun trivia about your favorite songs, or even crack jokes between tracks.
Right now, it’s only available to a small group of U.S. users. But this shows where music is headed: more interactive, personalized, AI-driven experiences.
Combine this with YouTube Premium’s new “jump ahead” feature (where AI skips to the best parts of videos on your TV or console), and it’s clear: Google wants AI to be more than a tool. They want it to be a companion, even your favorite DJ.
The Big Picture
From data centers in Pakistan to AI DJs in your playlist, technology is reshaping how we live. Some trends are exciting, others a little scary. But one thing is clear: the digital future is here, and it’s moving fast.
Pakistan has the chance to lead in South Asia if it invests smartly in data, AI, and robotics. But success won’t come just from building flashy systems. It will come from solving real problems, like energy shortages, privacy risks, and access to tech for everyday people.
The future is waiting. The question is, are we ready to embrace it?
FAQs
Q1: Why are data centers important for Pakistan’s future?
Data centers are the backbone of AI and cloud systems. They store and process massive amounts of information. Without them, Pakistan can’t scale AI adoption or compete globally.
Q2: What risks come with building data centers in Pakistan?
The biggest risks are high energy use, water shortages, and maintenance costs. Without reliable electricity and cooling, these projects could struggle.
Q3: What are insect-sized robots used for?
They can be used for search-and-rescue, exploring dangerous areas, or even military surveillance. While they can save lives, they also raise privacy concerns.
Q4: How does Google’s AI DJ work?
It uses AI to act like a radio host inside YouTube Music. It adds commentary, trivia, and personality to your playlists, making them more interactive.
Q5: Can Pakistan become a leader in AI?
Yes — but only if it builds strong infrastructure, invests in talent, and ensures reliable energy. With the right policies, Pakistan could become a regional hub for AI.
