Smart commences enhanced Wi-Fi project
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Smart Communications is rolling out enhanced WiFi to the Philippines’ major transportation hubs, government offices and key business establishments.
The PLDT subsidiary has earmarked close to 1 billion pesos ($21.2 million) for the service expansion. The investment forms part of PLDT’s 43 billion pesos in capital expenditure for 2016.
Smart said its free WiFi public hotspots are currently undergoing upgrades in all the four terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City; Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao; Iloilo International Airport; Bacolod-Silay International Airport in Negros Occidental; and Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport in Negros Oriental.
It has also been expanded to cover more public areas such as city halls, schools, and establishments such as malls, restaurants, and coffee shops, and terminals of major bus companies.
Eric R. Alberto, Executive Vice President at PLDT and Smart, and ePLDT President and CEO, the aggressive rollout of the Smart Wifi footprint was made possible through key partnerships with government institutions and business establishments.
Users of the service can avail of free connectivity for an initial number of minutes just to be able to check essential services such as email, after which they may purchase credits.
Beyond providing internet access to as many people as possible, Smart WiFi is also designed as an essential tool for small and medium enterprises and institutions.
“WiFi connectivity has been proven to contribute to business growth by equipping SMEs and various organizations with an indispensable tool to engage customers, build loyalty, and gather significant information that will help them understand customer needs,” said Alberto.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific locations in the Philippines are currently undergoing upgrades for Smart's free WiFi public hotspots?
Which specific locations in the Philippines are currently undergoing upgrades for Smart's free WiFi public hotspots?
Upgrades are underway at all four terminals of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, as well as the international airports in Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod-Silay, and Dumaguete-Sibulan.
Q.What is the primary financial investment Smart Communications is making for this enhanced Wi-Fi service expansion?
What is the primary financial investment Smart Communications is making for this enhanced Wi-Fi service expansion?
Smart Communications has allocated almost 1 billion pesos, which equates to $21.2 million, specifically for this service expansion project. This forms part of PLDT's larger capital expenditure for 2016.
Q.How do users access the Smart WiFi service after their initial free period expires?
How do users access the Smart WiFi service after their initial free period expires?
Users can avail of free connectivity for an initial number of minutes to check essential services. After this free period, they have the option to purchase credits to continue using the service.
Q.Beyond providing internet access, what is another key purpose of Smart WiFi, according to the article?
Beyond providing internet access, what is another key purpose of Smart WiFi, according to the article?
Smart WiFi is also designed to be an essential tool for small and medium enterprises and institutions. It aims to help them engage customers, build loyalty, and gather information for understanding customer needs.
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