Smart 5G is Now Available in Metro Manila and North Luzon, Here's How You Can Experience It - Android

On Thursday - July 30, 2020, the Philippines leading mobile services provider Smart Communications officially made its 5G mobile internet speeds available to its subscribers as a commercial service.

As I've explained in a previous blog post, 5G is the latest generation mobile broadband technology, officially superseding 4G. The expected 5G speed is around 100 Mbps for downloads although in the United States 5G data providers typically deliver around 50 to 60 Mbps.

In the first stage of its commercial deployment, Smart 5G will be available to Smart Signature, Smart Infinity, and other Smart Postpaid subscribers in key business districts of Metro Manila using Smart-Certified 5G-Enabled Smartphones powered by Activated Smart 5G SIM Cards.

Current Smart 5G areas in Metro Manila and North Luzon include the Makati Central Business District (CBD), Bonifacio Global City CBD, Araneta City, SM Megamall, Mall of Asia Bay, North Avenue in Quezon City, Taft Avenue in Manila, Ortigas CBD, and Clark Green City in Pampanga.


Some of the smartphone manufacturers that Smart Communications is actively working with to make 5G available to as many Filipinos as possible are realme, Samsung, Vivo, and Huawei. These brands' 5G-enabled handles will be bundled with Smart Signature plans in select Smart Stores.

As of writing, 5G-enabled Huawei P40 Pro can already be acquired through high-end Smart Signature Plans, which now support 5G connectivity. Interested customers can sign up for their Smart Signature Plan at any Smart Store across the country or through Smart Online Store at store.smart.com.ph.

According to Mr. Alfredo S. Panlilio - PLDT Chief Revenue Officer and Smart President and CEO, "After many years of preparation and sustained investments, we’re very happy to say that Smart subscribers can now try out and enjoy the super-fast data service that Smart 5G can deliver. The launch of Smart's 5G service enables the Philippines to level up and join the ranks of countries utilizing the next generation of mobile technology. For our customers, it opens the door to an even higher level of customer experience in terms of enjoying video, playing esports, and using more powerful digital services."

He added, "As we roll out 5G in more areas of the country, this will complement the deployment of our 4G/LTE network which is already the fastest and most extensive in the country. To date, Smart 4G/LTE and 3G coverage serve 95% of the country’s population."

On the other hand, Ms. Jane J. Basas - Smart Senior Vice president and Head of Consumer Wireless Business - shared, "On top of giving customers priority when it comes to the latest in technology and devices, Smart Signature also enables subscribers to do more by providing more data allocation of up to 30 GB per month. The plans also come with Unlimited OnNet Calls, Unlimited AnyNet Texts, and allocations for AnyNet Calls plus exclusive perks and rewards."

For those who are curious about Smart 5G and want to experience the ultra-fast internet speeds first-hand, there are Smart 5G-ready smartphones that can be tested at select Smart Stores in Metro Manila, including those in Smart Tower in Makati City, SM Mall of Asia, Gateway Mall in Cubao, The World Plaza in BGC, and SM Megamall.