Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) expects an increase in its 5G users in the next few years by triple digits as it continues to deliver fast 5G speeds and wide 5G coverage in the Philippines.
Smart’s standpoint is based on its fast-growing number of 5G users. A 200% increase – around 800,000 users have been reached compared to the number of 5G users way back in December 2020. Meanwhile, 5G data traffic got a three-fold increase in Q1 and Q2 of 2021. As a result, mobile data revenues in H1 2021 had a double-digit increase compared to the same period last year. This has also contributed to the telco’s 39.5 million mobile data users as of end-June.
Earlier this month, Smart has put up its first batch of commercial 5G Standalone (SA) sites in Makati City, one of the first in the world. 5G SA technology provides faster response times and data rates that are critical for businesses, healthcare, and smart cities. To date, Smart has deployed over 4,400 5G sites in more than 4,000 locations in the Philippines.
“When it comes to 5G, speed and coverage are the most important considerations. This is why since we pioneered the Philippines’ first 5G commercial service last year, our focus has been to lead in both 5G speeds and 5G coverage so as to empower Filipinos with world-class customer experience,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO.
Smart has unveiled earlier this month its Signature Plans+, the first postpaid line-up in the country featuring Unlimited 5G as well as Unli 5G data offers for prepaid subscribers in April. The telco is also making 5G more accessible to its customers by making more 5G devices available through its postpaid offerings such as the anticipated iPhone 13 series and bringing more content for its customers to subscribe to via the new GigaPlay app.
On the other hand, Ookla has also recognized Smart as the fastest and most reliable 5G mobile network in the Philippines for Q1 and Q2 2021. The telco is also the only network provider in the Philippines to be included in Opensignal’s 5G Global Leaders for Video Experience.
Thanks to the Mobile Number Portability, customers can now switch to Smart without changing their number. Switchers can visit x.smart/switch or head to the nearest Smart Store to avail of the service.
