Smart bares big jump in Android devices running on its network

MANILA, Philippines - Leading wireless services provider Smart Communications Inc. has revealed that the number of Android devices running on its network has jumped 102 percent in just three months.

The statistics, which includes numbers from end-February to end-May 2011, show that the biggest jump took place from April to May, with the Android operating system (OS) increasing its network presence by 45 percent.

Other operating systems, meanwhile, such as RIM’s BlackBerry and Apple’s iOS also gained ground although the figures are nowhere near what Android currently enjoys.

“This unprecedented rise in the uptake of Android is testament to its increasing acceptance among Filipinos. As its biggest ambassador in the Philippines, Smart is committed to supporting the OS as it is key to bringing the smartphone and mobile Internet experience to all Filipinos,” Smart wireless consumer division head Danilo Mojica said.

Developed by Internet giant Google Inc., Android is a mobile operating device designed to bring the full web experience to the palm of one’s hands. Its enhanced user interface and ability to connect seamlessly to the Internet users the power not just to surf or send emails as they please, but also to access cloud-based applications and services wherever and whenever they please.

Chief among this is the Android Market-Google’s online repository of mobile applications or “apps”-which is home to hundreds and thousands of games, entertainment, and productivity software, such as the award-winning Angry Birds by Rovio Mobile, the versatile VLC media player by VideoLAN, and the essential QuickOffice Pro by Quick Office, Inc.

Like any smart device, an Android phone works best with the best Internet connection from the best mobile network.

Smart offers a variety of Android devices available across several Unlimited Data plans such as the Samsung Galaxy Mini (free at Smart Unlimited Data Plan 1500), the Samsung Galaxy Ace (free at Smart Unlimited Data Plan 2000), the Samsung Galaxy Tablet (free at Smart Unlimited Data Plan 2000), the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc (free at Smart Unlimited Data Plan 3000),and the latest addition to the Android family, the HTC Desire S (free at Smart Unlimited Data Plan 2000).

Also available from Smart is the Huawei Ideos U8150, the most affordable Android smartphone in the country, which comes free with every new connection or retention of Consumable Plan 500.