Smart Communications Inc. has tapped leading 5G smartphone vendor Samsung in driving the development of 5G Standalone (5G-SA) technology in the Philippines.
This development follows Smart’s recent firing up of its commercial 5G-SA sites in Makati.
Earlier, Samsung was able to test 5G-SA and make a successful call using a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G via voice over new radio enabling much better call quality using the 5G-SA network.
“5G SA, as an innovation platform, will create new opportunities for enterprises and consumers that will maximize its ultra-reliable and low latency capabilities, enabling industrial automation, autonomous mobile robotics deployment, safe remote crane operations, fast response in gaming and interactive video streaming, among others,” said Mario Tamayo, PLDT Inc. and Smart head of technology.
“With 5G networks expanding across the globe, people are now experiencing the impact 5G can have on the mobile experience. At Samsung, we continue to expand our 5G-enable devices so more Filipinos can experience the power of next-generation 5G connectivity and enable them to share more, play more, and do more, faster,” said James Jung, Samsung Philippines president.
5G SA technology paves the way for a variety of new industry applications that utilize 5G’s full features, enabling super-fast response times and faster access to higher data rates that are required by cloud gaming or immersive media, for example.
Smart said this collaboration further bolsters its leadership in the 5G space. To date, Smart has deployed around 6,400 5G base stations nationwide — the widest 5G network in the country.
To enjoy the country’s fastest, widest and most reliable 5G network, the telco said customers can upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G, Z Flip 3 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 5G, Note20 Ultra 5G, A52s 5G, A32 5G and A22 5G, which are available with Smart Signature Plans.
