How are smart city visions reshaping cities in India and South Africa? Since 2000, smart city visions – where data, software and IT infrastructures are seen as key in the success of urban management and sustainable development – has gained traction in many regions across the world. However, little is known about how these visions affect the agendas and initiatives of municipalities as well as acts of resistance, including counter-plans from urban social movements. It is this research gap that this comparative study, led by scholars based in Switzerland, the UK, South Africa and Singapore, will address.