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Manila Bulletin devider Technews devider Smart continues to deliver the Best Mobile Video Experience in PH amid 5G push

Smart continues to deliver the Best Mobile Video Experience in PH amid 5G push

Published Aug 24, 2026 10:28 am
Amid its continued investments in expanding and enhancing its 5G network nationwide, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has been recognized by Ookla®, a global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights, for delivering the Best Mobile Video Experience in the Philippines for the second consecutive year. The recognition underscores Smart’s leadership in providing high-quality mobile streaming experiences for Filipinos.
Based on Ookla's analysis of Speedtest Intelligence® data for the first half of 2026, Smart earned the Best Mobile Video Experience award after posting a Video Score of 72.82—the highest among mobile operators in the country.
The recognition measures customers' real-world Quality of Experience (QoE) while streaming videos over mobile networks. The Video Experience award is based on three equally weighted components: acceptable video start time, uninterrupted playback, and full HD resolution.
According to Ookla's methodology, the Video Score reflects the percentage of users who experience video start times of less than two seconds, uninterrupted playback without rebuffering events, and 1080p or higher resolution in the majority of their video sessions.
For millions of Smart and TNT customers, this translates to a differentiated experience with faster-loading videos, smoother playback, and clearer high-definition streaming across today’s most popular streaming platforms. Whether watching livestreams, catching up on the latest series during a commute, enjoying short-form videos, or tuning in to live sporting events, subscribers benefit from a consistently seamless mobile viewing experience.
Sustaining network excellence
"This back-to-back recognition reflects the work of our network teams to continuously strengthen and improve our infrastructure. From expanding coverage in underserved communities to increasing capacity in high-demand areas, every enhancement is driven by our commitment to delivering the best possible mobile experience for our customers," said Debbie M. Hu, First Vice President and Head of Wireless Networks at Smart.
The award further reinforces Smart's commitment to delivering world-class digital experiences as video continues to dominate how Filipinos communicate, learn, work, and entertain themselves online.
"Video has become an essential part of everyday digital life for Filipinos, and our customers expect their mobile network to perform consistently wherever they go. This latest recognition from Ookla affirms that our network investments are translating into meaningful improvements in customer experience, and I encourage everyone to see the difference by streaming with Smart," said Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President and Officer-in-Charge for Smart.
Smart 5G growth
Smart continues to invest in its nationwide network to support the growing demand for video streaming and other data-intensive digital experiences. These sustained investments in network optimization, targeted rollouts, and wider adoption of 5G-enabled devices continue to drive Smart's 5G growth.
As of end-June 2026, the number of 5G-capable individual devices on the Smart network increased by 30% to 12.5 million. This represents 21% of individual devices on the network, reflecting continued migration toward 5G and higher data usage
Smart's continued network investments reinforce the PLDT Group's commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality digital services to Filipinos. These efforts also support the country's digitalization agenda and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

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