At 11:45 pm, a young YouTuber in Dhaka hits "publish" on his latest smartphone unboxing video. Within 24 hours, it racks up over 150,000 views. The phone? A new mid-range model from a well-known Chinese brand. The verdict? "Smooth performance, but beware of the camera hype." By the next morning, dozens of viewers have commented: "Thanks, bro — bought it after watching your review."

Welcome to the fast-evolving tech ecosystem in Bangladesh, where digital creators — not corporate billboards — are shaping what people buy, click, and carry in their pockets.

What began as niche hobbies for gadget enthusiasts has quietly transformed into a thriving micro-industry. Across YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok, a new wave of Bangladeshi tech reviewers is turning bedrooms into studios and subscribers into influence. Many started with basic setups as students or freelancers, while others now operate full-scale production teams with brand partnerships and dedicated audiences.

Creators like SamZone, ATC (Android ToTo Company), Shohag360, and Tech to The Point (TTP) have become trusted voices delivering honest, relatable, and accessible content. Their videos — typically in Bangla and grounded in everyday use — have become go-to guides for a new generation of tech buyers.

"We don’t trust glossy TV commercials anymore. We want someone who has actually used the phone," said Tawsif Hossain, a university student in Dhaka. "If a top reviewer says it’s good for gaming, that’s enough for me."

What started as a passion has turned into a full-time profession. Content creators today earn through YouTube monetisation, Facebook content bonuses, brand sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and strategic collaborations.

"Interestingly, none of us initially set out to become content creators. We were simply a group of friends from the same neighborhood, all united by a shared love for technology," said Ashikur Rahman Tushar, co-founder of Android ToTo Company (ATC).

"Back in 2014–15, smartphones were just taking off. People came to us for help with ringtones, launchers, and SIM issues. What began as neighborhood tech support evolved into a much larger journey," he explained.

Smartphone brands like Xiaomi, Samsung, OPPO, Vivo, Realme, Infinix, Tecno, and Walton have taken note. Instead of investing only in traditional media, many now work directly with local reviewers — offering early access to devices and exclusive partnerships.

Retailers are also feeling the impact. "When a popular reviewer endorses a phone, we see customer interest spike within days," says Md Jamal Hossain, a mobile shop manager at Bashundhara City Shopping Mall. "People walk in with YouTube screenshots asking for the exact model."

But influence brings its own challenges. Some creators admit to facing brand pressure. "There's often an unspoken expectation for a positive review if a product was sent for free or if there's sponsorship involved," one creator shares.

Sam, founder of SamZone, highlights another concern: "Many are chasing views by focusing on sensational trends instead of creating long-term, value-driven content. That hurts both quality and audience trust."

He also noted a lack of audience diversity. "Tech content viewership is largely male, aged 15–30. Female engagement remains low, limiting reach."

Recognition is also an issue. "Even when we list 'content creator' as our profession — for a bank account or school form — it’s not taken seriously," Sam added.

Creating tech content requires investment. "You need cameras, lights, editing software, and most importantly — access to gadgets. It’s not cheap," said Wahidur Rahman, founder of Tech to the Point (TTP).

He began his channel in July 2018 while working a corporate job. As views and brand deals increased, he quit his job to become a full-time creator. Today, he and his team not only produce reviews but also mentor emerging creators.

"We want to build a strong tech creator community in Bangladesh," he said. "It’s about more than just content — it’s about empowering others.

Today, over 15 content creators in Bangladesh are consistently producing content focused on smart gadgets. However, only about 4 to 6 of them have managed to stand out and achieve significant traction.

Some top content creators in Bangladesh, with monthly viewership exceeding 20 million, reportedly earn between Tk20 to 25 lakh. In comparison, mid-level creators typically generate Tk2 to 5 lakh per month, depending on audience engagement and brand collaborations. However, these earnings come with significant operational costs—including team salaries, studio setup expenses, and investment in gadgets.

With over 187 million mobile subscribers in Bangladesh, tech creators are expanding beyond smartphones — reviewing laptops, wearables, smart home devices, and even electric bikes. Some are crossing into lifestyle content, consulting, and product testing for brands before launch.

In a world overflowing with ads and polished marketing, these homegrown creators are carving out a space for real, grounded advice. Their studios may be modest, but their voices are trusted — and their influence, undeniable.

So, next time you're shopping for a phone, don’t be surprised if your decision isn’t influenced by a celebrity commercial — but by a familiar face on YouTube saying, "It’s worth it."