Banglalink launches digital service marketplace 'AppLink'

Banglalink on Sunday officially launched AppLink, a digital service marketplace aimed at connecting Banglalink customers with local developers.

Along with providing the customers with convenient purchase facilities, it will open up earning opportunities for the developers, a press release said.

State Minister for ICT Division Zunaid Ahmed Palak was present at the launching ceremony as the chief guest.

Startup Bangladesh Limited Managing Director Sami Ahmed, Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Erik Aas, Chief Commercial Officer Upanga Dutta, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman and other high officials of the organisation, among others, were present on the occasion.

Local developers can visit https://dev.applink.com.bd to register and get all the necessary tools and APIs (Application Programming Interface) such as SMS, USSD, and billing connectivity on AppLink's platform to publish and monetise their digital services of different categories such as health, education, sports, agriculture, public service, entertainment and business, read the release.

Banglalink customers will be able to purchase their desired services using the mobile airtime balance at https://applink.com.bd.

Zunaid Ahmed said, "Banglalink is known for taking exemplary digital initiatives for the country's youth. This time, it has developed a digital platform that can encourage young developers to develop apps for our local market.

“This is an example of how large corporate organizations can contribute to the growth of our IT sector by empowering young professionals."

Through a video message, Brig Gen Md Nasim Parvez, director general of Systems and Services Division, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), said, "I welcome this commendable initiative taken by Banglalink. 'AppLink' will empower our young IT professionals and will allow them to expose their work to the local market. I hope Banglalink continues to take more of such initiatives in the future."

Upanga Dutta said, "We have launched AppLink with a two-fold objective. Firstly, this new digital ecosystem is empowering local developers with a platform to showcase their talents with the opportunity to earn. Secondly, it enables our customers to easily purchase their desired services and apps with complete ease.

“We are happy to expand our digital service portfolio further through this initiative, and hope to enable young developers across the country through this platform."