Globe Telecom Inc. is deploying 5G Standalone (SA) technology following its successful live network testing, the telco announced Monday, December 12.
5G Standalone technology is an upgrade of 5G connectivity that provides ultra-low latency and higher bit rates, enabling super-fast response times and faster access to higher data rates.
Customers can enjoy better browsing, video streaming and gaming through 5G SA's increased capacity and coverage.
Compared to 5G Non-Standalone, which still relies on the 4G/LTE network, 5G SA relies exclusively on 5G connectivity.
Globe's live trial yielded speed tests reaching 700 to 1,000 Mbps for downloads and 120 to 150 Mbps for uploads.
The improved version of 5G also provides voice call technology or EPS (evolved packet system) that allows automatic shifting to 4G from 5G to ensure undisrupted voice calls.
“We continue to intensify efforts towards 5G enablement and to bring the latest technology to our customers," remarked Joel Agustin, Globe Senior Vice President for Network Planning and Engineering.
"With 5G Standalone, our customers will get the best experience in cloud gaming, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality," he elaborated.

"It will also deliver a differentiated experience per application through Network Slicing, or dividing the network into dedicated channels, and massive machine-type communication for intelligent power grids and intelligent cities.”
In addition, Globe’s venture into 5G Standalone technology will provide enterprises and consumers with blazing-fast speeds and hyperconnectivity, opening up a myriad of possibilities in business and personal use.
In 2018, Globe received Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)'s approval to launch commercial 5G and deploy hundreds of small cell sites across the capital region.
The telco brought its Non-Standalone 5G network online to key urban areas, providing coverage in Metro Manila by the end of 2020.
With its continued network buildup this year, Globe fired up 933 5G sites in the first half of the year, increasing its 5G network outdoor coverage in the National Capital Region (NCR) to 97.1 percent and 87.7 percent in key Visayas and Mindanao cities.
It is expected to continue its 5G rollout to provide equitable access across the country as 5G devices become more affordable.