Google Pay to Launch in Bangladesh Soon

City Bank partners with Google to bring contactless payments through Google Wallet

After years of anticipation, Google Pay is finally coming to Bangladesh. In a major step forward for the country’s digital finance ecosystem, Google Wallet is set to launch within the next month, enabling users to make contactless payments directly from their smartphones.

Initially, customers of City Bank will be able to link their Visa and Mastercards (in BDT) to Google Wallet. Using Android phones, they will be able to make NFC (Near Field Communication) payments at supported terminals. Over time, more banks are expected to join the platform.

Until now, the lack of integration between Google Wallet and the local banking system had delayed the service’s launch. However, growing demand among urban users for digital, contactless payments has encouraged the move. With this rollout, mobile phones will function as digital wallets—eliminating the need to carry plastic cards. Payments for shopping, cinema tickets, or even flights will be just a tap away.

The project is being jointly executed by City Bank and Google. Users will enjoy the speed and security of tap-and-go transactions at POS terminals. A senior banking official noted that this development could revolutionize retail transactions and enhance the e-commerce experience in Bangladesh.

Similar services have already gained momentum in the region. Google Pay alone handled 51% of total transaction value and over 37% of the volume. Pakistan also introduced Google Pay in March 2025. Other Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia are already on board.

Google Wallet may not store sensitive user data and so that it does not require direct approval from Bangladesh Bank. Still, banks planning to integrate with Google Wallet must inform the central bank before offering the service.

Generally, Google Wallet does not charge users for transactions via debit cards or bank accounts. However, banks may impose fees based on their policies—especially for international transactions. Domestic transactions are typically free unless processed through international servers.

With local mobile financial services like bKash and Nagad already popular, the entry of a global player like Google Pay could reshape Bangladesh’s digital payment landscape.

BUET Designs New Model for Safer Battery-Powered Rickshaws

Interim Government Moves to Regulate Rickshaw Operations in Dhaka

The interim government has taken a new step to curb the uncontrolled operation of battery-powered rickshaws in Dhaka.  Gulshan Society, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and other interested parties met with the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) on Tuesday. Finding alternatives to unlicensed battery rickshaws was the main goal, especially in affluent neighborhoods with a high concentration of foreign residents. During the meeting, DSCC officials showcased BUET’s newly designed rickshaw model.

According to sources, DSCC will submit the BUET model along with their recommendations to the Ministry of Local Government. Once approved, manufacturers will be instructed to produce rickshaws following this specific design. The new model will also go through a technical committee’s verification process before receiving a city corporation license. Any rickshaw operating without a license will not be allowed on the streets.

Officials plan to gradually phase out the current battery-powered rickshaws once the new models are introduced. BUET’s design is intended not just for Dhaka but for nationwide use. Mohammad Ejaz, the administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), confirmed that the existing rickshaws would be completely replaced.

He explained that the new model would feature a foot-operated brake system instead of the traditional hand brakes. Moreover, a regulated motor will control the speed of the rickshaws. Manufacturers will only receive production licenses if they comply with the technical standards set by the committee. Ejaz also mentioned that drivers may undergo special training programs to ensure safe operations.

Currently, battery-powered rickshaws not only flood Dhaka’s alleyways but also roam freely on major roads. Controlling them has proven to be a major challenge. Incidents involving aggressive behavior from rickshaw drivers toward passengers and motorcyclists have recently escalated concerns, prompting urgent action.

Global tech giant, Xiaomi, has unveiled two of its latest smart watches in Bangladesh, the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 Active and Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 Lite. Xiaomi debuts Redmi new watches.

The wearables are designed with vibrant and dynamic youth in mind, bringing advanced features, sleek aesthetics, and affordability together, reports a press release. These feature-rich smartwatches will offer a seamless blend of fashion and functionality, empowering Bangladeshi Xiaomi fans to stay connected and active on the go. Xiaomi’s Redmi Watch 5 Active boasts a vibrant 2-inch large LCD ensuring smooth and responsive interactions. It has a screen-to-body ratio exceeding 70 per cent which magnifies every brilliant moment. It also provides more than 200+ watch faces to match the user’s mood and outfit and showcase individuality. The frame has a matte finish for a more quality look and a smoother feel and is available in Midnight Black and Matte Silver with matching straps. Xiaomi’s Redmi Watch 5 Lite offers a 1.96″ AMOLED ultra-clear large display with natural colors like Light Gold or Black. The square screen design is stylish and lightweight with a high-gloss NCVM frame. It also supports AOD mode to provide a comprehensive and elevated user experience. It offers an extended call range featuring a receiver-independent built-in five-system (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou and QZSS) GNSS chip that supports satellite positioning. Both Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 Active and Redmi Watch 5 Lite offer dynamic health and fitness tracking features, including Comprehensive Fitness Tracking and Heart Rate & Oxygen Level Monitoring which will keep a close eye on the user’s heart health and Oxygen level. Both smartwatches support over 140+ workout modes including running, walking, cycling, rowing, swimming and many more.  5ATM water resistance will keep the users worry-free in light rain, while washing hands or swimming in the pool. Both support Dual-mic noise reduction and Bluetooth calling. These smartwatches operate on Xiaomi HyperOS and is compatible with other Xiaomi Smart devices. Both devices feature a 470mAh battery, delivering an impressive 18-day battery life, allowing customers to seamlessly power through their daily activities without worrying about frequent charging.

The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 Active and Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 Lite will be available for purchase in Bangladesh through authorized Xiaomi retail stores.