Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), a subsidiary of PLDT Inc., is ramping up its digital engagement channels to make mobile connectivity more affordable and accessible to its subscribers grow mobile data usage on its network.
“We are collaborating with Google Cloud, as well as offering Utang na Load on Meta (Load Loans) to allow more Filipinos to access the Internet,” Lloyd R. Manaloto, first vice president and head of Prepaid and Content at Smart, said.
Recently, Smart announced a collaboration with Google Cloud, becoming one of the first mobile operators in the world to deploy Telecom Subscriber Insights, Google Cloud’s AI-powered solution enabling Smart subscribers to access and engage with relevant offers as needed.
“When deployed strategically by CSPs, AI can significantly improve inclusion and equity of digital access, by tapping on data that these providers already manage and store as part of their core operations,” Malis Selamat, country manager, Philippines and Vietnam for Google Cloud said.
“Smart’s deployment of Telecom Subscriber Insights reinforces the potential for CSPs in Asia to support national digital transformation efforts with the use of AI in a secure-by-design and privacy-controlled environment, while empowering subscribers to make more informed decisions about their data usage in a growing and fast-evolving digital world,” Selamat added.
Meanwhile, Utang na Load on Meta offers a loan service allowing subscribers of Smart’s mobile services brand TNT to borrow airtime and load packages via Facebook.
“We continue to work on improving the quality of customer experience, making sure that our offers are relevant and value-packed, while banking on the quality of our strong network,” said Alex O. Caeg, head of Consumer Business-Individual at Smart, adding that Smart has restarted its LTE network rollout, enabling Smart to deliver leveled-up services across the country.
Smart’s mobile network, which covers 97 percent of the population, is supported by PLDT’s fiber infrastructure, which spans over 1.1 million kilometers as of end-September 2023.
These developments are seen boosting Smart’s initiatives to push further mobile data use on its network. Accounting for 86 percent of total Individual Wireless revenues in the first nine months of 2023, Smart’s mobile data revenue grew 5 percent, driven by a 15 percent year-on-year increase in mobile data traffic.
