US State Dept Launches Edge AI Package for Indo-Pacific with $200M Funding

• US State Department announces up to $200 million in foreign assistance for secure smartphone deployment in the Indo-Pacific.
• The Edge AI Package seeks innovative proposals to enhance next-gen smartphone competitiveness using trusted OS (Android/iOS).
• Aims to integrate the next billion internet users into an open, interoperable, and innovation-forward software ecosystem.
• Provides a market-based alternative to high-risk vendors, promoting a trusted AI software stack and secure digital infrastructure.
• India to join Pax Silica in February 2026, bringing talent, semiconductor ambitions, and strategic location to the alliance.