PLDT’s wireless communications unit, Smart Communications, said it plans to ramp up its 4G and 5G network rollout for the rest of 2024 and is banking on affordable 5G devices as a key part of its strategy to drive 5G business growth in the Philippines.
Smart said in a statement on Friday that the increase in data traffic is partly down to the number of 5G devices on the market, and that it expects the trend to continue as the prices of 5G devices fall.
Meanwhile, PLDT has cited the adoption of 5G as one of the new sources of growth for its personal business, which is expected to generate revenue of PHP41.9 billion (approximately US$745.8 million) in the first half of 2024. Mobile data revenue now accounts for 89% of PLDT’s total personal wireless revenue.
Alex O. Caig, head of Smart’s consumer wireless business, said data users, especially gamers, are beginning to understand the power of 5G.
“5G will undoubtedly play an important role in the future as enabled smartphones become more affordable,” he said in a statement.
Last Thursday, the company launched the Smart ZTE Blade A75 5G, which it calls “the most affordable 5G device,” with a retail price of PHP5,450 (just under US$100). A current promotion allows subscribers to purchase the smartphone with 0% interest in six monthly installments.
Smart is also selling the ZTE Blade A75 5G with package bundles of prepaid and postpaid 5G services.
Smart added that it also offers device financing for 5G smartphones through a range of banking partners.
Caeg said apart from device affordability, for Smart to accelerate its 5G growth momentum, it must leverage site rollout and capacity enhancements, continue to offer the best value for money packages, and provide excellent customer service to keep subscribers happy.”
“we [also] “We see the potential for premium subscriber benefits for people who will be using 5G networks,” said Christine A. Goh, svp of Smart’s consumer wireless business.
