MANILA, Philippines — As technology continues to advance, the evolution of internet speed has witnessed several significant points in modern history, each marking a pivotal moment in the way we access and interact with online content — and with each other.
The arrival of gigabit-speed broadband internet has opened new possibilities in various aspects of our lives. This ultra-fast connectivity not only transforms the way we work but enhances our educational, entertainment experiences, and social connections — all with one click.
Gigabit internet service — meaning online data is transmitted at a minimum of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) or 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps) — is a far cry from the internet of decades ago when computers first became common in households. We have come so far from the dial-up modems of the 1990s or even the broadband revolution of the early 2000s, and fiber optic internet that followed in the 2010s!
Through all these evolutions — breaking out one after the other, each one faster than the last — one internet service provider has been at the forefront of technology in the Philippines: PLDT Home, which has been my ISP for many years.
The Gigabit era has arrived
With gigabit speed, I can download a full HD movie in just a few minutes to watch with my pets at home as we gobble our favorite treats. I can update the software on my laptop, my smart TV and smartphone simultaneously in less than a minute — all while on a video call with family and friends. Fast and heart-warming, too.
Now, PLDT Home is introducing its Gigabit Fiber plans and the speeds will blow your socks off. with 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps speeds.
PLDT Home has the fastest gigabit fiber plans in the Philippines (starting at 1 Gbps). These plans let subscribers access 24-hour repair, live agent support, and are part of a superior and resilient network.
Fiber internet, by the way, is considered “the broadband gold standard” and, according to experts, it is “arguably more reliable than cable and less prone to being affected by peak usage times or congestion.” They also say that “no other type of internet connection” comes close to fiber to reach gigabit speeds.
Imagine all the things we can do with gigabit fiber internet. Homes can be connected seamlessly — appliances and devices that secure your home can talk to each other, controlled through your phone or tablet whether you’re inside or out.
On the educational front, students can access online resources without delay or lag, whether they live in the city or in remote areas. It provides a level playing field in education, a step in ensuring that no kid gets left behind in the information age.
Educational institutions can offer immersive experiences to fire up children’s imaginations and interest in subjects like history or literature.
With gigabit speeds, telemedicine consultation can revolutionize healthcare, especially for patients in remote provinces who can now access doctors from top city hospitals (something we saw happening during the pandemic lockdowns). It can also open up mental health consultations for people who would not otherwise go to face-to-face therapy for whatever reason.
For businesses — whether a home-based startup or large company —entrepreneurs can find online resources to help them market their products and reach a wider market. They can collaborate with experts from around the globe, upload their products online for the world to see, and choose partners or suppliers from all corners of the world.
Freelance consultation, too, is made possible for professionals to set up their own shop from their home, enabling them to be employed by foreign companies whose top requirement is that their internet is fast and stable — two things that gigabit internet provides without a problem.
And, of course, online gaming and streaming are now more enjoyable. Gamers can play lag-free; movie buffs can watch high-definition movies and shows without buffering; and everyone participates in interactive virtual concerts.
PLDT is meeting the challenges head on to make gigabit fiber internet widespread across our cities and islands. It has the most extensive fiber infrastructure which, as of September last year, spanned over 1.1 million kilometers (this fiber infrastructure also supports Smart’s mobile network).
Gigabit fiber internet is a revolution and an evolution where no one gets left behind.