Melo Villareal
So you want to travel and access Internet using the new SMART 4G LTE Network technology? It may not be possible as of yet but SMART just launched it recently so definitely this LTE 4g technology will be available nationwide soon!!! Why am I so confident about it? Simply because its powered by SMART Communications – a trusted leader in Mobile Technology.
Filipino Celebrities testing Smart LTE
Together with fellow journalists, bloggers and some celebrities, we tried and enjoyed various 4g LTE beta testing points in Resort World Manila’s activity center. LTE has been available since 2009, but that release was limited to Norway and Sweden, and only in major cities across the Globe. North America got LTE technology in 2010, and Japan is planning to change all mobile wireless to LTE.
SMART LTE launch at the Resorts World
So we’ve just been waiting here in the Philippines for a company to finally pick up LTE and give us access to the latest in high-speed data for our cell phones. Well, it’s finally happened, if in a somewhat limited area but thanks to SMART for bringing the latest technology.
SMART LTE Cosplayers
So far, the LTE locations are all in and around Manila, especially in Makati City. Huawei E392 USB modems come free with the purchase of an LTE plan. There are 49 locations in total, and where you can’t connect with LTE, HSPA, HSPA+, 3G, GPRS, and EDGE towers are still functioning and keeping high speed data available.
Wacky Shot LOL
Meanwhile, there are going to be limits on the up and download totals and so far we haven’t seen how you’ll be able to measure use.
VJ Sarah Meier at the SMART LTE launch
So what’s the big deal with Smart LTE? Its definitely the speed. Smart LTE offers up to 42 Mbps. For a monthly plan, it’ll cost quite a bit. You get 10 GB of bandwidth total, for both upload and download, for about Php3,500 per month.
Melo at the Smart LTE Event
That’s not a considerable difference to other pricing schemes in other countries, but considering the limited access so far it may only make sense for people who are always within a short distance of an access location. If you go over the 10 GB, you pay an extra Php450 for a single month of overage.
Smart Communications is most likely going to expand their coverage. Hopefully they will extend availability soon, since customers may not be willing to sign up with such limited coverage.
Yes, 4g LTE is finally here, and it’s Smart.
