Technology Highlights on March 7: Vietnamese AI Gains Popularity, Indonesia Bans Social Media Use for Children Under 16
On March 7, several significant developments in the technology landscape have drawn attention across Southeast Asia and beyond. Notably, a Vietnamese artificial intelligence (AI) platform named Kiki Info has risen among the most popular AI applications in Vietnam, challenging global giants in the field. Meanwhile, Indonesia has introduced stringent regulations banning children under 16 from using social media platforms, a move aimed at protecting young users from digital risks.
Vietnamese AI Platform Kiki Info Emerges as a Leading Domestic Innovation
According to the Q4 2025 Connected Consumer report by Decision Lab, Kiki Info, an AI platform developed by Vietnamese tech company Zalo, has secured a position among the top 10 most used AI applications in Vietnam. This marks a milestone as the first Vietnamese AI product to compete alongside internationally renowned platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft’s Copilot, and Meta AI.
In the ranking, ChatGPT leads with a 66% usage penetration, followed by Gemini at 50%, and Meta AI at 24%. Kiki Info’s strong showing reflects its tailored approach to addressing local user needs, representing a strategic advancement by Vietnamese enterprises in the AI sector.
The inclusion of Kiki Info in this competitive lineup underscores a broader trend—the rising prominence of Vietnamese technology companies in a market largely dominated by multinational corporations. It also aligns with efforts to democratize AI, making it more accessible and relevant to everyday users in Vietnam.
MediaTek Teams Up with Starlink Mobile to Enhance Emergency Satellite Communications
In another notable development showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026, semiconductor giant MediaTek announced a collaboration with Starlink Mobile to integrate emergency satellite services directly into mobile devices.
This innovative solution, using MediaTek’s M90 5G modem equipped with S-Band Direct to Cell technology, enables smartphones to receive critical disaster and emergency alerts via communications systems such as CMAS, WEA, and ETWS—even if traditional mobile networks are down.
Implemented successfully in the United States, Canada, and Japan, this technology currently benefits over 4.4 million users who can maintain vital connectivity during emergencies. MediaTek regards this collaboration as a key step toward commercializing NR-NTN satellite technology, ultimately enhancing global safety and resilience.
Indonesia Enforces Ban on Social Media for Children Under 16
On the regulatory front, Indonesia has become the first country in Southeast Asia to enact a ban prohibiting children below 16 from accessing social media platforms. Starting March 28, leading social media services—including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), Bigo Live, and Roblox—must disable accounts belonging to users under the age threshold.
This decisive measure arises from growing concerns about exposure to inappropriate content such as pornography, online scams, cyberbullying, and the risk of internet addiction among minors. Indonesian Communications Minister Meutya Hafid emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting parents in safeguarding children from “the giants of the digital world,” despite acknowledging challenges in enforcement.
Indonesia’s social media age restriction echoes similar considerations underway in countries like Australia, France, Denmark, Greece, and Spain. Malaysia currently restricts children under 16 from independently creating social media accounts but permits parental management.
Broader Context and Future Prospects
These developments illustrate the dynamic nature of technology policy and innovation in the region. The ascent of Kiki Info reflects Vietnam’s growing technological capabilities and ambition in AI development, potentially fostering broader applications tailored to domestic users.
At the same time, Indonesia’s protective policy highlights rising global awareness of the social and psychological impacts of digital media on youth. As countries observe and potentially adopt similar frameworks, the balance between digital engagement and safety will remain a crucial discussion point.
Meanwhile, partnerships like that of MediaTek and Starlink Mobile showcase how technology can bridge communication gaps during critical moments, promising to improve disaster response and public safety worldwide.
Source: VTC News, Decision Lab Q4 2025 Connected Consumer report, MediaTek Press Releases, Indonesian Government Announcements
