PLDT, Smart open interactive hub in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - The fast paced evolution of technology gadgets that often create confusing impressions toward the target users has prompted a telecommunication giant to open up an “interactive technology hub” to provide full technology experience to prospective users, before they even decide to buy.

Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), together with its mobile company arm, Smart Communications opened the second “Jump Experience Center,” in the Philippines, at SM City Cebu.

“We at PLDT and Smart believe that technology should not be an intimidating concept understood only by a few, but an experience enjoyed by everyone,’ said PLDT and Smart’s president Napoleon Nazareno.

 Latest gadgets in technology and mobile solutions are being showcased at the “Jump Experience Center” giving customers all across segments to experience and know the features of a new gadget (without fee) before jumping off to purchase one.

Among the technologies showcased in Jump is the Long Term Evolution (LTE), which allows people to surf the web at blazing speeds.

As the jewel of Smart’s recently-concluded nationwide mobile network overhaul, LTE is recognized by critics and telcos around the world as the fastest 4G (fourth generation) connection technology in existence. It is capable of speeds over 100Mbps making it ideal for high-speed broadband applications.

“Movies in minutes, lag-free gaming, and high-definition video streaming—these are just some of the things one can experience wirelessly with LTE,” said Smart external customer service manager Veronica Gabaldon.

She said that Cebu has always been a city that is ahead of its time, and that fact remains true with the opening of the interactive Jump Center here.

“We invite everyone to try out this technology [LTE], as well as the many smartphones, tablets, laptops, and home and office gadgets on display [at the Jump Center],” Gabaldon added.

Jump features games that entail the use of Quick Response (QR) codes, which can be scanned by mobile devices to transfer large content like images and videos at fast speeds. The center also uses Augmented Reality technology which allows 3D viewing, digital style.

“Jump takes customer experience to a higher level by showcasing digital infrastructure with interactive elements designed to engage, excite, inform, and entertain. Of course, the Jump experience is made much more fun and seamless by Smart’s reliable connection,” added Gabaldon.

She said the center will constantly upgrade its showcased technology and updates to make sure that it displays brand-new digital elements seven days a week.

Smart-powered devices from Apple, Blackberry, HTC, Nokia, Samsung, and Sony are also featured in the center.

According to Gabaldon, the center will also serve as one of the “field trip” destinations for students, to be more oriented in the technology innovation and updates, and be updated what is new in the technology gadgets in the market. (FREEMAN)