ISLAMABAD, Aug 28 – Google has reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s growing gaming and app industry by launching new programs, including the Game Design Masterclass and Google Ads Academy, across major cities.
At Think Apps 2024, the largest industry event to date, Google gathered nearly 350 of Pakistan’s top developers alongside global industry leaders. This year’s event was built on the success of Think Apps 2023, focusing on empowering developers to leverage AI for innovation, growth, and sustainability in Pakistan’s rapidly expanding app industry.
According to Access Partnership’s latest Economic Impact Report, Pakistan has the potential to boost its revenue by $6.6 billion annually by 2030 through digital exports. The gaming and app sectors have been identified as key drivers of this growth. From 2018 to 2023, locally-developed apps saw a 32% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in global downloads. Although overall app downloads dipped in 2023, placing Pakistan 17th globally, in-app purchase (IAP) revenue surged by 50%, showcasing the industry’s resilience.
A major opportunity for Pakistani developers lies in creating high-quality, sustainable games and expanding their reach globally. In line with this, Google is introducing the Game Design Masterclass in 2024, a six-month program that will help Pakistan’s top developers hone their skills in creating premium games.
Additionally, the Google Ads Academy will offer in-person workshops in Lahore and Islamabad, where marketing professionals can enhance their strategies for app growth. Developers can also benefit from the Build with AI and Cloud AI Study Jams, which have already trained over 9,300 participants through hands-on AI and cloud training.
These initiatives add to existing programs such as the Google App Academy, which has trained over 800 marketing professionals to date. The online workshops, localized in Urdu, focus on maximizing reach and profitability through expert insights.
Google continues to foster engagement through events like the Google Developer Conference, CXO meetups in APAC, and the APAC App Summit, where Pakistani gaming and app studios connect with global talent.
Farhan S. Qureshi, Google’s Director for Pakistan, highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s app and gaming industry for long-term growth. He noted that several local studios, including Vyro.AI, Hazel Mobile, Games District, GeniTeam, and Finz Games, are generating millions of downloads and gaining international recognition.
“Think Apps 2024 underscores our commitment to empowering local developers. Through AI-powered tools and resources, we aim to help them create top-tier apps and games, drive profitability, and build sustainable businesses. This will not only enhance the country’s digital export revenue but also provide high-value employment,” said Qureshi.
Google remains dedicated to investing in Pakistan’s developer ecosystem and supporting its global success trajectory.
