Here comes 4G

BY MYLA IGLESIAS
WITH the anticipated triple digit growth rate of broadband subscribers requiring higher
demand for bandwidth, Smart Communications, Incorporated and Globe Telecom
Incorporated has stepped up their telecommunications technology with the use of the latest
mobile technology service called 4G.

Telcos can rollout 4G services using the latest technology HSPA+, or Evolved High-Speed
Packet Access, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) and Long Term
Evolution (LTE) according to International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

4G wireless is a mobile, high speed broadband technology that allows for peak theoretical
download speeds of up to 21 Mbps with upgradeability for 84Mbps.

Ayala-led, Globe Telecom Inc., was the first carrier that commercially launched the 4G
mobile technology in selected areas in the country using a global standard HSPA will
complement its existing WIMAX network.

The rollout of Globe 4G mobile network will provide its subscribers high speed broadband
access with the added convenience of full mobility.

To date, Globe 4G mobile technology has been deployed covering sites across Metro Manila,
which includes Marikina, Quezon City, Makati, Pasay, Las Pinas, Taguig and the City of
Manila.

By end-2011, Globe expects to increase its 4G presence dramatically with continued

expansion planned into 2012.

Ernest Cu, president and CEO of Globe Telecom said Globe is again pioneering innovation in
the Philippines.

"With the uptake in broadband both on mobile and through other devices, customers want
faster broadband in more places. Globe is continuously looking for ways to improve our
network infrastructure to meet the demand for quality services," Cu said.

In 2009, Cu said that they were the first carrier to launch 4G through their WiMax network.

"Today, we extend our leadership by taking 4G mobile. With our high speed broadband
rollout, Globe will continue to lead in customer experience by giving our subscribers better,
faster, and more reliable broadband connections on their phone, laptop, PC or tablet." he
added.

Under Globe HSPA+ network, subscribers are expected to enjoy browsing at an average
speed of 4-6 Mbps with even faster peak speeds.

HSPA+ is the chosen mobile 4G standard for other carriers globally including AT&T and T-
mobile in the US.

Meanwhile, Orlando Vea Smart chief wireless advisor said that Smart will launch its 4G
mobile technology by early May initially in selected areas in the country to address the high
demand for bandwidth.

At present, the giant wireless firm is testing the 4G mobile technology in Boracay Island and
expected to commercially rollout next month, to address the high demand for bandwidth of
the enterprises business.

Smart is using the LTE technology for its 4G services and various frequency.

However, with the anticipated rise of mobile data traffic, Smart is both expanding and
upgrading its broadband and cellular networks.

The expansion program covers Smart’s 3G/HSPA mobile broadband and WiMax networks.

The country has approximately 3 million broadband subscribers. Telecom providers focus on
expanding and upgrading their infrastructures to address the high demand.