Smart still fastest 5G network, says Ookla

MANILA, Philippines — Smart Communications Inc., the wireless arm of PLDT Inc., is still the country’s fastest 5G mobile network, delivering significantly higher speeds for its subscribers during the second half of 2021, according to Ookla.

Using 325,396 user-initiated 5G tests, Ookla said Smart is the winner of its Speedtest Awards for the period covering the third and fourth quarters of 2021 with a speed score of 201.95.

Its closest competitor posted a speed score of 116.08.

Smart posted a median download speed of 218.82 Mbps and a median upload speed of 22.46 Mbps, while its closest competitor posted a median download speed of 116.92 Mbps and a median upload speed of 10.81 Mbps.

Ookla also reported Smart’s median latency to be at 14 milliseconds, while its closest competitor recorded a median latency of 19 milliseconds.

“Speed is the key metric when it comes to network performance and simply providing amazing digital experiences, and we are extremely proud that our 5G network has consistently been recognized as the fastest in the country based on the real-world experience by our subscribers,”  Smart senior vice president and head of wireless consumer business Jane Basas said.

Smart swept the Ookla Speedtest Awards for all award periods of 2021 amid its accelerated 5G rollout and continuous network improvement efforts across the country.

The company earlier won the “Fastest 5G Mobile Network” for the period covering the first half of 2021.

“As the pandemic sped up digital adoption across the world, we have made it our mission to provide Filipinos with the best customer experience through our superior network and innovative services that enable our subscribers to live the Giga Life and pursue their passions,” Basas said.

Smart launched its 5G commercial service nationwide in 2020 and has since deployed around 7,200 5G base stations around the country.

Ookla’s latest report also showed huge speed gaps between Smart and its closest competitor in select cities like Manila, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro City.

Smart enables Filipinos to adopt 5G and enjoy its benefits through innovative products and services, such as the Rocket WiFi, its first and fastest 5G pocket WiFi, as well as the Smart Bro Prepaid Home WiFi 5G, its first 5G-powered prepaid WiFi service which makes it easier for families to enjoy fiber-like wireless speeds at home.