Smart to launch wimax

Smart Communications will follow the lead of its rival Globe Telecom in launching its own wimax service in the second half of 2009.

"We will definitely rollout our wimax within the year, specifically in the next two quarters," said Orlando Vea, chief wireless adviser of Smart. 
Wimax, which stands for worldwide interoperability for microwave access, is a standards-based technology designed to enable the deployment of wireless broadband access as a cost-efficient alternative to cable and DSL.

It is a technology designed to enable the deployment of wireless broadband access as a cost-efficient alternative to cable and DSL.

 Globe Telecom and electronic giants Intel Corp. officially rolled out last week the wimax-supported Globe Broadband, although the service was already available in some areas a few weeks ago, attracting subscribers of around 4,000 already.

Menchi Orlina, head of Globe Telecom's Consumer Broadband Business Group, said the wimax service would bring the Internet to areas that previously had few or no options for Internet access.

She said Globe's wimax-based plans provide good value for money with unlimited internet access ideal for households with frequent daily usage. 

"With a speed of up to 512 kilobits per second for only P795 per month, the entry plan is 33 percent faster and 25 percent more affordable than any other entry-level postpaid plans in the market," Globe said.

Globe said the package comes with an aggressive money-back guarantee, allowing any subscriber to terminate their account with no termination fees, should they be unhappy with the connection.

Wimax has improved reach and can cover distances greater than those covered by other wireless technologies like WiFi, CDMA, or 3G.  Globe said its network is considered the first and biggest 2.5Ghz WiMAX (802.16e) broadband network in South East Asia.

The company said that as part of its commitment to the local communities, Globe is providing wimax to selected local community government offices in Cavite, Batangas and Cagayan de Oro, providing the local governments a means to be more accessible to their constituents and vice versa.