SMART BROADBAND AND CELL REVIEWS & PROMOS

Smart 3G Mobile Internet for Php 1 per Minute

2011-04-01T22:55:00.000-07:00

Smart’s per Minute Rate for Mobile 3G

1 peso per minute rate is an option available for users who have prepaid load of less than Php10. This is to help users maximize their remaining load credits.

Reference: http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150096156949588&comments&ref=mf

However, there another set of per minute charging which is available to all prepaid users as another option.

So that’s Php60 for 3 hours (180 minutes) and expires in 2 days, Php100 for 5 hours (300 minutes) and expires in 4 days and Php150 for 7.5 hours (450 minutes) and expires in 7 days.

The rates still follows Smart Bro’s Php20 per hour and will still be great for people who frequently use Twitter, FB or FourSquare but don’t really need to go online 24/7.

Reference: http://smart.com.ph/bro/products/prepaid/perminute.htm

If you go with UnliSurf, that’s Php50 for 24 hours. If your cumulative mobile internet usage is under 3 hours for 2 days, instead of using Php100 for 2 days of UnliSurf, you have the option to pick Php60 for 3 hours within a 2-day period (which makes it cheaper).

SMART Bro, now on WiFi hotspots

2010-06-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

SMART Bro, now on WiFi!

You have stepped into the latest, coolest broadband innovation! Enjoy Smart Bro anywhere with its supercharged WiFi zones. Ready to blast-off into the net? Then check out the many ways you can surf anywhere, anytime:
Are you a SMART Bro pre-paid user? Start surfing at unbelievably low rates - only P10 for 40 minutes!
Dont have SMART Bro yet? Seriously?!? Then Get a Smart Tag now.

Postpaid subscribers can use their SMART Bro reference numbers to login to unlimited WiFi at SMART Bro WiFi hotspots.

Source: http://www.coolbuster.net/2010/06/smart-bro-wifi-hotspot.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+thepowerofinformation+%28Coolbuster+%C2%BB+The+Power+of+Information%29&utm_content=Yahoo%21+Mail#ixzz0qzfzApQE

Smart Bro 2mpbs Speed for Plan 999

2010-03-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

It's official! Smartbro Plan 999 postpaid plan upgrades to 2 mbps. Smart Bro Plan 999 subscribers on fixed wireless connection (Canopy antenna) or wireless connection (Plug-it modem) can now enjoy up to 2 mbps (2000 kbps) broadband internet speed.

SMART Bro UnliSURF P40 a day, PROMO unlimited internet Philippines

2010-02-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

SMART Bro UnliSURF is designed for heavy internet users so plug-in your stick right about now. For an affordable price of P200, you'll get 5 days of unlimited surfing (P40 per day). Here's how to use SMART Bro UnliSURF thru Webconnect or SMS text.

This promo is open to all Smart BRO Prepaid subscribers. For P200, get unlimited surfing for 5 days (120 hours).

Web Connect Registration:Note: You must have an initial load balance of P210
Log on to Web Connect: http://smart.com.ph/connect
Upon logging in, choose “Bro Packages”, then click on “Data Packages”.
Choose Smart Bro UnliSurf Package, then click “Submit".

You'll get a notification upon successful registration.~Via SMS:

Text UNLISURF 200 send to 2200 (subscriber must have initial load balance of P210).

Promo is until May 18, 2010. Enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=314345143475

Maintain P1 airtime to continue using the unlimited internet browsing experience.

Validity is counted in terms of hours vs calendar days from the time you register into the service.

Multiple registrations not allowed.

Philippine Smart Communications, Inc. has joined Globe Telecom, Inc. in seeking a temporary restraining order to stop pulse billing

2010-01-08T14:51:00.001-08:00

via Business World online The per pulse billing scheme is the latest of a string of new regulations for telcos in response to complaints last year of “vanishing” mobile prepaid credits or “load” due to dropped calls and “spam” text messages, among others. Regulators imposed the per pulse billing so that subscribers are charged only for actual time consumed.

Last Dec. 16, telcos were required to adopt the per-pulse billing for calls between two different networks. Calls within the same network were subjected to the new billing scheme starting Dec. 6.

NTC cease-and-desist orders dated Dec. 9 insisted that telcos should have billed phone calls within the same mobile network for every six seconds consumed under the new per pulse billing scheme starting Dec. 6, and that any difference between the old and new billing should be refunded.

Globe Telecom filed its own petition before the Court of Appeals on Monday, citing similar grounds. Continue reading here http://www.bworldonline.com/main/content.php?id=4281

Smart, Globe hit NTC over pulse rate charging scheme
Smart seeks restraining order versus NTC

Philippine NTC approves Smart text, call promo extension until April 30, 2010

2010-01-07T14:41:00.001-08:00

Friday, 08 January 2010 Manila Times: The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has granted Smart Communications Inc.’s request to extend its unlimited text and call promo until April despite the temporary suspension of the service last month.

The regulator said it has approved the promo called SmartTalk Plus Promo nationwide under the brand Smart Buddy from January to April 30 this year.

Under the promo, Smart to Talk ‘N Text subscribers can avail unlimited text and calls from 10 p.m. to 5 p.m. of the next day. From 5:01 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. the company will then charge P2.50 per minute per call and P0.20 per text for Smart and Talk ‘N Text subscribers. Continue reading here http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/business-columns/9231-ntc-approves-smart-text-call-promo-extension-

Philippine NTC approves Smart text, call promo extension until April 30, 2010

2010-01-07T14:40:00.001-08:00

Smart testing 4G technology in bid to meet rising demand

2009-12-31T17:40:00.000-08:00

Friday, 01 January 2010 Via Manila Times: Smart Communications Inc. said it has begun testing 4G technology to serve the rising demand for connectivity. In a statement, Smart said it has successfully tested 4G or Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology in November. Continue reading here http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/business-columns/8752-smart-testing-4g-technology-in-bid-to-meet-rising-demand

No unlimited texting, calls during holidays Bah humbug to SMART and Globe Christmas spirit

2009-12-24T17:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, 22 December 2009 BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR SENIOR REPORTER from Manila Times

Telecommunication companies, or telcos, withdrew their unlimited text with voice call offering after the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) denied their request for the suspension of the promo during the holidays.

In a letter dated December 10, Smart Communications Inc. informed the commission that it has abandoned their application to extend its Text and Call Combo Promo, Call Night Long Promo and Smartext 30 and Smart60 for Gold Lite Subscribers.

The Globe Telecom's Touch Mobile also withdrew its Unlimited Night Calls Promo.

Globe's and Smart's unlimited text promos without unlimited calls are still available for their subscribers, however. Continue reading here http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/top-stories/8282-no-unlimited-texting-calls-during-holidays

Philippine NTC orders telcos to offer Christmas promos http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/business-columns/7738-ntc-orders-telcos-to-offer-christmas-promos

Philippines' Largest Telco SMART Suffers Broadband Loading Outage

2009-12-24T16:46:00.001-08:00

December 23, 2009 Via AHN Staff

Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines (AHN) - If Blackberry users in North America could not surf the Internet or send emails on their smartphones, subscribers to the broadband service of the Philippines' largest telecommunication company went through a similar experience on Wednesday.

Subscribers to Smart Telecommunications' Smart Bro service could not load their prepaid broadband service for several hours because of congestion in the company's system. Instead of receiving confirmation of their loads via short messaging service, what Smart prepaid customers got was a text message that their transaction could not be processed.

Smart's customer assistance agents initially told callers there was nothing wrong with the system. However, when AHN checked at the Smart main office in Makati, a supervisor admitted the company is having problems with its broadband loading system and they could not provide a timetable for the return to normal operation of the loading service.

Read more: http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7017344900?Philippines%27%20Largest%20Telco%20Suffers%20Broadband%20Loading%20Outage#ixzz0aemept4o

All About Unlimited Texting Services in Philippines Globe/TM, Smart/TNT (Dec 23,2009)

2009-12-23T21:03:00.000-08:00

Following is an updated compilation of different SMS/text packages (unlimited and not) by Globe/Touch Mobile (TM) and Smart/Talk ‘n’ Text (TNT). You can subscribe to the following packages from your own mobile phone. There are other promos and packages that can only be availed via your local retailer or loading center, so you might want to check them out. http://www.symbianize.com/showthread.php?t=171617

But be aware No unlimited texting, calls during holidays

Globe's and Smart's unlimited text promos without unlimited calls are still available for their subscribers, however.

http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/top-stories/8282-no-unlimited-texting-calls-during-holidays

PHILIPPINES Mobile 3G is now cheaper than DSL!

2009-12-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

Via Yugatech blog: Let’s look at how much a 1Mbps to 3Mbps residential DSL costs nowadays:
PLDT myDSL 2Mbps: Php1,995 (DSL only)
Globe Broadband 2Mbps: Php1,995 (DSL w/ free Landline)
Bayan DSL 1.5Mbps: Php1,699
Sky Broadband 2Mbps: Php1,999

The sky broadband speed listed above is for non-skycable subscriber, if you are a skycable user, it is 3Mbps..

Now let’s look at a rundown of unlimited mobile 3G by the networks and see if the prices are cheaper or not:
Sun Wireless Broadband 2Mbps – Php799
SmartBro Plug-It 2Mbps – Php999
Globe Tattoo 2Mbps – Php1,200

Continue reading here http://www.yugatech.com/blog/telecoms/mobile-3g-is-now-cheaper-than-dsl/

Comments in Yugatech blog

Well, it is true that they are cheaper but if you put in reliability and consistency into the mix, I’d still pay for a fix line. It is very inconsistent and not as reliable as a wired connection. There’s lot of capping policies even though Telcos do not admit this directly to its customers. ..........been using both a wired and wireless DSL and I should say that my wired one never fails as often and gives a consistent connection.

SMART BRO PLUG IT PROMOS & REVIEWS

SMART BRO SHARE IT PROMOS & REVIEWS

SUN BROADBAND PLUG IT PROMOS & REVIEWS

SMART BROADBAND AND CELL REVIEWS & PROMOS

GLOBE TATTOO BROADBAND USB REVIEWS & PROMOS

GLOBE BROADBAND & CELL PROMOS & REVIEWS

SUN BROADBAND & CELL PROMOS & REVIEWS

PLDT PROMOS & REVIEWS

SKY CABLE & BROADBAND REVIEWS & PROMOS

INTERNET FASTER SPEED SECRETS

SMART UZZAP unlimited texting 10 peso a day texting to Yahoo & MS Messenger & UZZAP

2009-12-19T23:24:00.000-08:00

Starting December 1, 2009 use Uzzap for only P10 /day. Enjoy Unlimited EM, IM and Chat.
You can also use Uzzap pay per transaction P1 / message send.

So get your friends online overseas and in Philippines (online or SMART cell in Philippines)
Very similiar to Chikka now owned by SMART but now you can reply unlimited not 2.5 pesos a send!
http://www.chikka.com/ but better as cheaper now!

Download is FREE.
No Registration or log-in fees
No internet browsing charges for Smart mobile subscribers

• Unlimited Chat!
• Unlimited Email
• Messaging mobility and flexibility
• Only all-in-one messenger service
• Free to download
• No internet browsing charges for Smart mobile subscribers.
http://smart.com.ph/buddy/services/Uzzap.htm

How do I download and install UZZAP?
http://www.uzzap.com/ help
UZZAP Getting Started
UZZAP FAQ
UZZAP FAQ
UZZAP Quick Tips
UZZAP Quick Tips
UZZAP Picshare Getting Started
UZZAP Picshare Getting Started
UZZAP Picshare FAQ
UZZAP Picshare FAQ
UZZAP on PC
About UZZAP
UZZAP is the first all – in – one messenger service for your mobile phone! It is also available to download on your PC or access it through the webpage using the UZZAP widget, all you need is an internet connection.

UZZAP uses your data or GPRS connection through your mobile phone to go online, it’s FREE for SMART subscribers, so you can stay connected 24/7!
Once logged on, you can start enjoying UZZAP features and services, such as:
Extended Messaging (EM): send messages to your UZZAP buddies! (If an UZZAP buddy is offline, your messages would automatically convert into an SMS, so your buddies will always receive your messages!)

**NOTE: Standard Rates apply when you Reply to an SMS message (Php 1.00)
Group Chat: enjoy chatting with your UZZAP buddies in private in your own room!
Instant Messaging (IM): connect to you YM or MSN account and see all your buddies!
Chatrooms: Enjoy chatting & meeting new people, grow your social network with over a 1000+ UZZAP chatrooms!

User Generated Chatrooms (UGC): Create your own chatroom!
Share Media: Send & receive picture messages from your phone!
Invite Buddies: Increase your UZZAP buddy list by adding them through your phonebook, user-id, or mobile number!

Buddy Matching: UZZAP automatically adds your contacts on your phonebook who are already UZZAP users to your buddy list!
Themes: Enjoy various themes on your phones & personalize your UZZAP!
** See FAQ’s ; Quick-start Guide & Quick Tips for more details & information.**

SMART & GLOBE new six-second pulse billing regime, how to do it

2009-12-15T18:28:00.001-08:00

No wonder NTC is complaining, you need to add prefix number when dialing to call someone. The strange thing is per-pulse charging only applies when calling same network number or sister company’s number. The mobile networks is implementing it like a promo.

For Smart, following lifted from their advisory site to:

To call per-pulse, the following prefixes must be used, plus the number being called:
Smart Gold and Infinity: *5433

To avail of the per pulse billing, Smart prepaid subscribers should dial *5434; Talk ‘N Text, *2255; Red Mobile, *3512 and post paid, *5433.

Subscribers can also opt to be billed per minute, P5.50 for Talk ‘N Text and P6.50 for Smart Buddy, Smart Gold, and Infinity, or to subscribe to unlimited or bucket-price service offerings.
Call types supported by the per-pulse billing scheme are call features such as call forwarding and teleconferencing. At present, rates apply to calls made within the SMART and Talk ‘N Text network only.

Telco billing row heats up

Telcos reply to NTC, say order is ‘unclear’

Telcos snub NTC’s order for a rebate

Telcos buck NTC order on pulse billing

TC eyes sanctions on telcos for noncompliance with per-pulse billing

Smart Buddy ringtone charges unsolicited

2009-12-15T03:54:00.000-08:00

From the newsgroups: If anyone is having problems being charged by SmartBuddy ringtones
they've not requested key to text 2728 and in the body of the message key STOP ALL
Return response reads All your Caller Ringtunes have been successfully deleted.

without your consent you may be charged p15 for ringtones whether you want them or not. I was anyway, but was able to talk to a person to find out how to stop all these messages of which I was charged for 'ringtones' which i have no use for.

Reloading stations to be available to OFWs anywhere in the world

2009-12-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

Reloading stations to be available to OFWs anywhere in the world

Press release....IN its thrust to support the Filipino entrepreneurial spirit, Smart Communications Inc. will launch a program that will enable overseas Filipino workers (OFW) to sell load credits to fellow OFWs.

---------------------

My comment: SMART and PLDT have many programs and this one seems interesting but when you try to find details online it is impossible....it seems their press releases should reference an exact web location where you can reference and use immediately as a search on google and on the SMARt website brings up nothing on this OFW program details on this OFW load program......all press releases should reference the exact web address to find more details

---------------------------------------------------

Smart envisions to make it possible for an OFW anywhere in the world to find a reloading station near him.

With Smart tapping into technological innovations, the company will continue to find ways to make its services more affordable, she said.

Carag said the Hellow reloadable card for international direct dialing (IDD) did better than initially expected. Smart now plans to expand the Hellow coverage and distribution.

Read more about the P2.5 calling reloadable card here http://smartphilippines.blogspot.com/2009/11/smart-now-has-calls-overseas-as-low-as.html

Since the Hellow card’s launch in September, the company has to produce cards twice the number of its first estimate of 200,000 cards for this year, she said.

The card allows a user to use the credits of the card in any Smart-subscribed phone, including post-paid ones. Hellow cards are available in 16 countries and will be in nine more within six months.

Another product targeted to OFWs, the Smart Pinoy Sim, generated 1.3 million users of international roaming services as of November.

but very expensive texting rates you would better to use chikka or yahoo texting see for details

http://smartpinoy.net.ph/SmartPinoy/SectionPage.aspx?SectionID=2

“I believe we have the biggest coverage of the market,” Carag said.

The OFW Grand Salubong program is on its third year and will run until Jan. 30, 2010. Returning OFWs will get a chance to win a prize from the Smart Pinoy booths at the airport.

OFWs can also join the grand raffle draw where the major prizes are a brand new car from Nissan and a house and lot from Camella Homes.

To earn a raffle entry, arriving Filipino passengers need to register their Smart pre or post-paid subscription at the Smart Pinoy booth.

Comparison of unlimited texting offers Sun, Smart, Globe

2009-12-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

Texting rates unlimited all day from SUN is the cheapest but the cheapest offers only apply to texts within their network and to text outside the network its more expensive and this comparison is mainly for texting within network although some rates are listed for texting outside the network are also listed.

Sun’s 1-day Text Unlimited just got better! Introducing WinnerTXT10!

With Sun WinnerTXT 10, your P15.00 1-day Text Unlimited is now only P10.00. Enjoy 24 hours of Unlimited-Sun-to-Sun texts plus FREE 5 minutes of Sun-to-Sun calls! With Sun, everybody’s a winner!

Also note there is unlimited texting at P20 for two days 20 minutes calls
7 days of unlimited texting and one hour of calls is 50 pesos and
30 days of unlimited texting and 4 hours calls is 150 pesos

Sun has a 5 day texting to other networks 100 texts for 20 pesos total which is still a best buy.

Smart has unlimited texting

20 pesos one day
30 pesos two days
http://smart.com.ph/buddy/promos/AllTextMMS.htm

SMART SMARTXT PLUS 25 unlimited texts one day, 10 minutes of calls, 10 texts to other networks, to use your P25 load to join text TXT25 to 258 and send, to make calls dial *2590 & your 11 digit cell number

SMART ALL TXT 20 COMBO 110 texts 3 days, 10 texts other networks, 5 minutes calls, to avail with your P20 load, text C20 to 2827 send, to make calls dial *2827 & your 11 digit cell number

SMART SMARTXT PLUS 60 unlimited texts 5 days, 20 minute calls, to avail with your P60 load, text TXT60 to 6402 send, to make calls dial *6402 & your 11 digit cell number
from newspaper ads http://smartphilippines.blogspot.com/2009/12/philippine-smart-call-unlimited-text.html

ALLTEXT 20
P20 = 100 texts SMART to SMART / Talk 'N Text & 10 texts to other networks
ALLTEXT 40
P40 = 200 texts SMART to SMART / Talk 'N Text & 20 texts to other networks
ALLTEXT 50
P50 = 300 texts SMART to SMART / Talk 'N Text & 30 texts to other networks
from http://smart.com.ph/buddy/promos/AllText.htm

Talk 'N Text
Gaantext Unli20 one day unlimited texting   5 texts to other networks

GaanTxt P10 = 55 texts to Talk ‘N Text/Smart
+ 5 texts to all networks!
Promo runs until April 30, 2010.
Per DTI- NCR Permit No. 5196, Series of 2009.

P20 = 95 texts to Talk ‘N Text/Smart
+ 10 texts to all networks!
Promo runs until December 31, 2009.
Per DTI-NCR Permit no. 5198, Series of 2009.
from http://smart.com.ph/talkntext/promos/gaantext.htm

Globe has unlitext P20 for one day to Globe and TM
P50 for 2 days
P80 for 5 days
from http://tattoo.globe.com.ph/product/unlitxt-all-day

Globe Tattoo also offers EVERYBODYTXT20! For only P20, enjoy 200 texts to Globe/TM AND 20 texts to other networks for 1 day. http://tattoo.globe.com.ph/product/everybody-txt-20

Smart starts per-pulse billing , dated December 11, 2009

2009-12-10T14:24:00.001-08:00

The Philippine Star December 11, 2009 MANILA, Philippines - Smart Communications has started the implementation of the per-pulse billing system for mobile voice calls.

The new billing uses a six-second pulse charging system applicable to domestic on-net calls. It will apply to postpaid (Smart Gold and Infinity) and prepaid services (Smart Buddy, Talk ‘N Text and Red Mobile).

A flag-down rate of P3 will be charged on the first two pulses (or 12 seconds) and 31 centavos (for Talk ‘N Text), 43 centavos (for Smart Buddy, Smart Gold, and Infinity) and 25 centavos (for Red Mobile) on the succeeding pulses of the first minute. For succeeding minutes, 55 centavos (for Talk ’N Text), 65 centavos (for Smart Buddy, Smart Gold, and Infinity) and 50 centavos (for Red Mobile) per pulse will be charged.

To call per-pulse, the following prefixes must be used, plus the number being called: Smart Gold and Infinity: *5433; Smart Buddy: *5434; Talk ‘N Text: *2255; and Cure: *3152. Subscribers can also opt to be billed per minute, P5.50 for Talk ‘N Text and P6.50 for Smart Buddy, Smart Gold, and Infinity, or to subscribe to unlimited or bucket-price service offerings. Continue reading here http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=531246&publicationSubCategoryId=66

Enrile denounces Globe and Smart for defying the new NTC ruling lowering the cost of mobile phone calls

2009-12-09T18:48:00.001-08:00

Enrile denounces Globe and Smart for defying the new NTC ruling
lowering the cost of mobile phone calls

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile earlier today denounced telecom giants Globe and Smart, for continuing to defy the National Telecommunication Commission's new memorandum circular mandating telecommunications companies to start billing cellphone users on a "per pulse" basis.

"Globe and Smart are once again trying to flex their muscles, twisting the rules for their own benefit" Enrile blasts.

Enrile was reacting to advertisements placed by Globe on major broadsheets informing their subscribers to dial 232 plus the 10-digit cellphone number for Globe subscribers, and 803 plus the 10-digit cellphone number for Touch Mobile users.

"During the committee hearing at the Senate, Globe, Smart and Sun Cellular agreed to follow the new NTC ruling. Instead, I learned that Globe is treating this as a promo, requiring their subscribers to dial a certain number together with the cellphone number, for them to be billed on a "per pulse basis."

Enrile also deplored the fact that until today, Smart has not bothered to inform its subscribers of any change in their billing scheme as expected under the agreement between the telecommunications company and the NTC.

"They will be taken to task for this defiance. This is precisely the reason why I am pushing to strengthen the regulatory powers of the NTC. These Telcos cannot be allowed to manipulate the industry for their own benefit, they are fooling the people" asserted a visibly irked Enrile.

"The NTC should not be afraid to sanction these Telcos. What these Telcos are doing is a clear disregard for consumer welfare" Enrile explained.

Enrile further said that "these Telcos must be sanctioned immediately, and they will be required to show cause why their certificates of public convenience and necessity should not be suspended or revoked."

Enrile explained that prior to the announcement of the new rates, he, together with representatives of the three telecommunications companies and the NTC, ended the committee hearing last Dec. 3 with a gentleman's agreement, with everyone acknowledging that the new rates will in fact make for a healthy and competitive atmosphere that will benefit not just the consuming public, but the Telcos themselves.

"The Telcos keep on hiding behind the cloak of "technical difficulties", and this must end. Hanggang kailan na lang natin papayagan ang mga 'yan na magrason ng "technical difficulty" tuwing may pinapairal kaming batas na mapapakinabangan ng taong bayan"? Enrile asks.

"The law must be followed, otherwise we will all be slaves to the whims and fancies of these power-hungry companies. Kawawa naman ang taong bayan!" Enrile added.

Enrile commends Sun Cellular for being the first telecommunications company to comply with the new "per pulse" billing scheme.

Instead of charging every 6 seconds by default as ruled by the NTC, Enrile said the 2 companies are "twisting the rules" by requiring customers to enter a prefix to avail of the per-pulse billing system. Press release here http://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2009/1209_enrile2.asp

Globe, Smart scored for defying new billing scheme

Globe’s customer service is now online with the new Chat Assist, WHY CAN'T SMART HAVE IT TOO?

2009-12-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

Globe’s customer service is now online with the new Chat Assist

from Manila Times Thursday, 10 December 2009 Globe Telecom, a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, launches Chat Assist, an online customer service assistance that can be accessed using the Globe website (www.globe.com.ph/support). Globe customers can get real-time customer service assistance including inquiries, requests and concerns about Globe’s products and services through the new Chat Assist.

---------------------------------

My comment: SMART, PLDT, SUN, BANYAN, DREAM, GLOBAL, DESTINY, etc are you listening? Many online businesses have adopted this years ago and I am pleased that finally Globe is showing the way to better customer service rather than holding a phone to your ear for ages and pressing through numerous buttons to get someone to listen to your concern! GREAT IDEA!!!!!

-----------------------------

“Globe Chat Assist expands our ability to provide excellent customer service to our subscribers because we are now able to serve them through more ways than one. So no matter where they are our subscribers can now connect to Globe from anywhere in the world” said Trina Henson, Head of the Customer Engagement Group of Globe.

A Globe Chat Assist Specialist is always ready to serve customers who are online so feedback on inquiries is immediate and concerns are resolved at the soonest possible time.

The launch of the new Chat Assist is in line with Globe’s thrust to put its customer first always and to provide them with superior customer experience. Also, it demonstrates Globe’s commitment to its mission to transform and enrich lives through communications.

The new online customer service is made possible by Fluxion Inc., a provider of interactive technology solutions.

The next time you are online and need assistance on any Globe service, simply log on to www.globe.com.ph/support and click on the Globe Chat Assist link. Continue reading here http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/tech-times/7493-globes-customer-service-is-now-online-with-the-new-chat-assist-

SECRETS MAKING YOUR SPEED FASTER ON USB INTERNET

2009-12-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

1. How to configure ordinary Sun or Globe or Smart sim to Sun or Globe or Smart internet sim?
2. Unlocked E160 Settings for SUN, SMART, GLOBE to enter in your unlocked USB
3. Share your USB with your whole house ROUTER
4. Get a external antenna for your USB Smart, Globe or SUN plug it
6. Globe tattoo unlocked, SUN USN unlocked, SMART BRO plug it unlocked

Go to my blog here http://fasterusb.blogspot.com/

Smart Bro Plug It Plan 999 unlimited plan now available

2009-12-06T21:28:00.000-08:00

Smart Bro Plug It Plan 999 unlimited plan now available , Smart Bro Plug It will have an unlimited Plan for only P999! You may avail this exciting offer at any SMART Wireless Centers and from SMART Bro agents nationwide. speeds of up to 2Mbps. Before it was P1500 a month. Globe offers this plan for 2000 pesos a month but SUN offers it less than P999 unlimited in areas it covers. Can be used nationwide.

Read reviews, how to attach an antenna to increase signal at my blog http://plugitsmartbro.blogspot.com/
Or where to buy antenna, unlock the usb modem plug it to use on any service, and how to hook up usb plug it to modem so it can be shared http://fasterusb.blogspot.com/

Also note that SMART has a two year lock in period

Also read all the SMART news and promos here http://smartphilippines.blogspot.com/

Check it out at SMART official site http://smart.com.ph/bro/products/SMARTBroProducts.htm

SMART Bro Share-it is unlimited and can be shared by many users with free wireless router but can only be used in one province where activated. http://smartbroshareit.blogspot.com/ Also two year lock in period.

Also note that SUN has P50 a day plan now using a USB plug it. No contract or application required. http://sunplugit.blogspot.com/

Tags: SMART BRO internet broadband plug it plug-it usb P999 month

SMART PHILIPPINES unlimited mobile surfing ON YOUR CELL PHONE & 50 PESOS PER DAY UNLIMITED SMART SURFING

2009-12-06T16:27:00.000-08:00

Most AFFORDABLE UNLIMITED MOBILE SURFING is
NOW AVAILABLE!

Any time, any where, any site. Click here to read the original post at SMART get the detailed description on how to do it http://smart.com.ph/buddy/promos/UNLI+Surf+Plans.htm

Designed for the heavy mobile internet user, SMART Buddy’s UNLI SURF data plans allow you to connect to the internet using your mobile phone and surf to your heart’s content at the most affordable rates without worrying about per minute charges. Browse mobile sites, upload photos, view videos, connect to your social networks, send and receive email, all through an unlimited data connection! Surf any time, any where, any site.
Choose from our affordable UNLI SURF plan that fit you and your budget:

Unli Surf DailyP50 / day
Unli Surf WeeklyP300 / Week
Unli Surf MonthlyP1,200 / month

To register, simply visit http://m.smart.com.ph/surf using your Smart celphone and select the package you want to avail.

Or simply key in SURF and send to 211 to get information about the service.
How to sign-up for UNLI Surf:
To Avail:

1. Simply visit http://m.smart.com.ph/surf on your phone's web browser and select the UNLI Surf plan from the menu.
.
2. After selecting the plan you want, TERMS and CONDITIONS screen will appear. Please click on the PROCEED tab to confirm your purchase

3. Confirmation screen showing the status of your data plan will be displayed. This screen will show the exact start and end time of the data validity period.

4. You can now connect to the internet at a flat rate during your validity period.
5. You can also check on the status of your plan. Just click on the STATUS tab from the menu.

6. You can also click on the HELP tab to get more information about your mobile internet package and mobile internet services .

FAQs
What is UNLI Surf Plan?UNLI Surf Plan is the unlimited mobile internet service offering from SMART.

What are the different UNLI Surf Plans?UNLI Surf 50 is an unlimited mobile internet service valid up to 1 day.
UNLI Surf 300 is an unlimited mobile internet service valid up to 7 days.
UNLI Surf 1200 is an unlimited mobile internet service valid up to 30 days.

When will the unlimited period start? Upon display of successful notification, your subscription period will already start regardless if you’re browsing within the portal or not.

Will I get charged if I disconnect within the service validity?You will not be charged for as long as you are within the allowed number of hours and validity, regardless of how many “disconnect” and “re-connect” attempts.

How much is the charge if I exceeded my usage beyond plan expiry?You will be charged with the standard rate of P10 for 30 minutes.

Will I get disconnected if I didn’t maintain P1 balance?Yes. You should maintain a minimum balance of P1 throughout validity of your plan.

Can I register multiple plans?No. Subscribing to a new plan will only be allowed upon expiration of current plan.

Comment: tried the Smart BB prepaid and it works. it’s just that it’s too difficult to renew the service.

Smart offers flat rate Blackberry service

2009-12-06T15:39:00.001-08:00

For an additional P50 per 24 hours, prepaid users can avail of unlimited Internet connection on their Blackberry device.

Another option is P300 for seven days unlimited access, which translatesto P1,200 per month if the user avails of the service per week.

The fee for the unlimited Internet access is on top of the cost of using the Blackberry device for voice calls and text messages.

To read the complete article details click the headline below

Smart offers flat rate Blackberry service

Philippine SMART Call & Unlimited Text Promos announced today in full page newspaper ads

2009-12-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

SMART SMARTXT PLUS 25 unlimited texts one day, 10 minutes of calls, 10 texts to other networks, to use your P25 load to join text TXT25 to 258 and send, to make calls dial *2590 & your 11 digit cell number

SMART ALL TXT 20 COMBO 110 texts 3 days, 10 texts other networks, 5 minutes calls, to avail with your P20 load, text C20 to 2827 send, to make calls dial *2827 & your 11 digit cell number

SMART SMARTXT PLUS 60 unlimited texts 5 days, 20 minute calls, to avail with your P60 load, text TXT60 to 6402 send, to make calls dial *6402 & your 11 digit cell number

Promo expires December 20, 2009

Tags: SMARTXT PLUS 25, SMART ALL TXT 20 COMBO, SMART SMARTXT PLUS 60, smart unlimited texting

Smart joins global initiative to launch new mobile TV handsets & Smart launches flat-rate, push mobile email

2009-12-04T15:52:00.001-08:00

Click the headline below to read the articles

Smart joins global initiative to launch new mobile TV handsets

Smart launches flat-rate, push mobile email

Smart 1 day unlimited internet for only 50 pesos 3G

2009-12-03T21:04:00.001-08:00

Smart Unlimited 3G Internet for Php50/day
yuga blog is reporting today December 3rd, 2009

Smart Buddy Unlimited mobile internet at 50/day 04Dec09 Smart is currently offering an unlimited mobile internet package for Smart Buddy subscribers. For as low as P50, you can enjoy unlimited mobile internet for 24 hours. You can browse and download anything, no website restrictions.

YOU CAN SEE THE EXACT DETAILS NOW AT THE SMART http://smart.com.ph/buddy/promos/UNLI+Surf+Plans.htm

Also available are P300 for 7 days and P1,200 for 30 days. To activate, just visit m.smart.com.ph/surf on your mobile phone.

That didn’t take too long. Just a couple of weeks after Sun Cellular offered unlimited 3G internet
at Php50 per day, Smart has also come up with the same with Unli Surf 50.
Check out the following daily, weekly and monthly rates.

That’s Php50 for 24 hours, Php300 for 1 week (7 days) or Php1,200 for a month (30 days). You activate this plan by visiting m.smart.com.ph/surf on your mobile phone.

This is intended for use on your mobile phone but as the comments at then end indicate it can be used on your regular plug it after registration from your cell phone and payment.

Compare this to Smart’s existing SmartBro Plug-it Postpaid which costs Php1,500 a month, the Unli Surf offer looks cheaper.

The previous Surf Plans (Php20/hour) and Web Unli Plans (Php20/day/site unlimited) are still available.

Comment one
OK SYA SA WEB, EVEN SA USB PLUG IT. MAKE SURE TO USE THE APN (INTERNET). REGISTER USING UR MOBILE THEN USE UR FON AS A MODEM OR USE IT WITH USB PLUG IT.ENJOY UNLIMITED WEB BROWSING.

Comment two

I’m currently using it via smartbro (ZTE mf627 usin “internet” as the APN) 3g Dongle and now enjoying its unlimited web browsing.

You can even download torrents with this unli setup *evil grin*.

Take note that you need to subscribe using a 2g/3g phone via wap as when you do this on using the USB dongle you will automatically subscribe to the regular plan which is 10php/30mins.

Another blogger indicates hi abe! i called smart to ask for the keyword to register for this service, the CS told me that this service is only available for Blackberry users. But u never mentioned it here that its only for blackberry users. hmmmm… it seems like SMART CS are not properly informed about this kind of promo? Seems their website can't keep up with their promos either, very poor marketing I think.
MY COMMENT: SMART WEBSITE DOES NOT SEEM TO INDICATE THIS AS ONLY LIMITED TO BLACKBERRY YOU CAN SEE THE EXACT DETAILS NOW AT THE SMART http://smart.com.ph/buddy/promos/UNLI+Surf+Plans.htm

You can continue reading this posting at the yugatech blog and the latest comments of readers keep you up to date on their experiences http://www.yugatech.com/blog/telecoms/smart-offers-unlimited-3g-internet-for-php50day/

Review of Smart Bro Prepaid

From the blog thefilipinoentrepreneur Comparing it to smart bro prepaid, the only significant disadvantage is the cost (there are other minor things like can’t log-in to BPI online banking). At 2Mb per second I assume this might be the fastest prepaid broadband in the Philippines. Read the full posting here http://www.thefilipinoentrepreneur.com/2009/11/08/review-smart-bro-prepaid.htm

Also read more SMART news at http://smartphilippines.blogspot.com/

And read about the SMART bro Plug it here http://plugitsmartbro.blogspot.com/

SECRETS MAKING YOUR SPEED FASTER ON USB INTERNET

http://fasterusb.blogspot.com/

Tags: SMART BRO plug it internet broadband usb, secrets of increasing your broadband speed on SUN, Globe, SMART Bro, share it, plugit. smart 50 peso internet, Smart 1 day unlimited internet for only 50 pesos 3G , Smart 1 day unlimited internet for only 50 pesos P50 50 piso

Smart joins global initiative to launch new mobile TV handsets

2009-12-03T14:38:00.001-08:00

The Philippine Star December 03, 2009 MANILA, Philippines - Smart Communications Inc. has joined 14 service providers and broadcast network operators worldwide in launching an initiative that will help speed up the market introduction of new mobile television-ready handsets. Continue reading here http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=528815&publicationSubCategoryId=66

Smart offers flat rate Blackberry service

2009-12-03T14:13:00.001-08:00

INQUIRER.net 12/03/2009 MANILA, Philippines –Smart Communications is turning the heat up in the growing market for Research In Motion’s (RIM) Blackberry mobile device as it introduces flat-rate unlimited data packages for prepaid users.

For an additional P50 per 24 hours, prepaid users can avail of unlimited Internet connection
on their Blackberry device.

Another option is P300 for seven days unlimited access, which translates to P1,200 per month if the user avails of the service per week.

The fee for the unlimited Internet access is on top of the cost of using the Blackberry device for voice calls and text messages. http://technology.inquirer.net/infotech/infotech/view/20091203-239937/Smart-offers-flat-rate-Blackberry-service

Smart launches flat-rate, push mobile email

2009-12-03T01:05:00.001-08:00

SMART Communications Inc. has launched the beta phase of Smart mobile email, the country’s first daily flat-rate, unlimited “push” email solution meant to work on all handset models, old or advanced.

“In the same way that Smart’s innovative but affordable offerings made the use of voice and SMS ubiquitous, we would like to turn email into another universally available service from which the everyday Filipino may benefit,” said Danilo J. Mojica, head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division.

Like text

Smart mobile email provides all Smart subscribers, regardless of the handset they use, easy access to email through their mobile phone. For a flat rate and in a manner as easy as text messaging, Smart subscribers can read and send emails while on the go.

For only P20 per day, individuals can register and have access to up to two email accounts, allowing them to have their emails automatically sent to their Smart handset from their personal accounts with the most popular email providers such as Gmail, Windows Live!, and Hotmail, Facebook via RSS feeds, among others. Yahoo! is expected to be available by the first quarter of 2010.

Setup
Smart’s mobile email also offers 30 days or one-month access for P199.

Smart subscribers can set up their mobile email anytime through a quick and easy procedure done in a few clicks on their handset. Regardless of handset type, a subscriber simply needs to text MAIL to 7077 to trigger setup instructions.

For Smart Buddy subscribers, payment for SMART’s mobile email subscription will be immediately deducted from their prepaid load. The subscriber just needs to maintain a P1 load balance while subscribed to the service. For Smart Gold postpaid subscribers, payment for the chosen package will be billed upon subscription.

Globe, Smart proposing different voice call rates vs NTC cutting rates

2009-11-30T15:51:00.000-08:00

Manila Standard Today reports Major telecommunications companies are lobbying with the National Telecommunications Commission to approve their respective proposed rates on voice calls.

The NTC in July fixed the maximum unit of billing for voice services at six seconds per pulse with higher rates on the first two pulses to recover costs.

The telecom companies in September submitted their proposed rates based on their actual call set-up costs.

“Any further reduction in the proposed rates would affect Globe and Innove Communications Inc.’s ability to continue to provide voice service in accordance with the quality and coverage standards of [NTC],” Globe said.

Globe and subsidiary Innove proposed a flag-down rate ranging from P1.50 to P4 for the first six seconds and P0.70 to P1.25 for the succeeding pulse.

It said that majority or 63 percent of calls made by subscribers had an average duration of 27 seconds per call while 30 percent had 117 seconds, or about two minutes.

Globe said the average subscriber under its proposed rates would only be charged P4.75 per minute against the prevailing rate of P6.

My comment: Seeing that PLDT is offering international calls for P1.5 a nubyte and SUN P2 a minute international calls and Globe and SMART at P2.5 a minute, it seems that domestic calls are more expensive than international and in USA you can now call free on some domestic plans USA and Canada

Continue reading here http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideBusiness.htm?f=2009/november/28/business2.isx&d=/2009/november/28

Telcos threaten to halt voice calls
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/business/6747-telcos-threaten-to-halt-voice-calls

Comparing Globe Tattoo, SmartBro and Sun Broadband Wireless

2009-11-29T00:52:00.000-08:00

From Tonycruz website link follows below. More and more Filipinos have again gone wireless to connect to the internet. Recently, the three major wireless telcos have pushed down the cost of their wireless broadband modems or dongles to as low as P888 in a common effort to outsell competitors. The competition has gone so fierce that rivals Smart and Globe have come out with ads claiming their respective wireless broadband service is faster. Curiously, both did not include Sun in their ads. Read an up to date review of the three services, speeds, cost comparison at this bloggers site (although he did not include the new P2000 unlimited plan from Globe and Globe & Smart offer of P20 a day for surfing certain social sites or the new unlimited Blackberry surfing from SMART daily rate or the SMART BRO Share it at P999 a month. ) Read his comparisons and excellent chart here but you will have to highlight the site as its hard to read in brown http://tonyocruz.com/?p=2619

The blogger writes Globe and Smart are apparently still stingy in offering and approving applications for postpaid Globe Tattoo and SmartBro accounts. Sun Cellular has taken advantage of this by offering the widest choices for postpaid subscribers.

But SUN has made available an Easy Broadband 799 Plan which requires only the submission of one ID and the advanced payment of two monthly service fees, and without any contract. Those already with a modem or dongle can also avail of the SBW 799 SIM Only Plan – again without a long list of requirements and with a short contract of just six months.

Smart unveils unlimited email service

2009-11-24T14:34:00.000-08:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer 11/24/2009 MANILA, Philippines - Sending emails on the go has finally become as easy and affordable as “texting.”

The country’s leading mobile service provider Smart Communications Inc. on Tuesday launched a new service that would allow subscribers to send e-mails from their mobile phones as much as they want for a fixed monthly fee.

Company officials said the new flat rate data promo, which would be available to post-paid subscribers for P299 a month on top of their bills, would pave the way for the increased use of broadband technology through cellular phones. Continue reading here http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/infotech/view/20091124-238087/Smart-unveils-unlimited-email-service

SMART TALK PLUS UNLIMITED CALLS AND TEXTING P100 PESOS FOR 19 HOURS WITH HOURS SPECIFIED

2009-11-22T13:37:00.000-08:00

19 hours of unlimited calls and texts
from 10pm to 5pm the next day.

• No new SIM and number needed
• Biggest network
• Nationwidest coverage

Promo is open to Smart Buddy subscribers nationwide.
Unlimited calls and texts can only be used from 10PM to 5PM. Calls and texts made between 5:01PM to 9:59PM while enrolled in SMARTalk will be charged with the following rates: 2.50/minute and P0.20/text.
Subscriber must have the minimum balance (P100) in order to register to SMARTalk Plus.
Unlimited calls and texts only apply to local Smart-Smart/Smart-TNT transactions.
P2.50/minute and P0.20/text rates only apply to local Smart-Smart/Smart-TNT transactions.
Any roaming, international and transactions made to other networks will be charged with regular rates.

SMART Talk'N Text Gaanload promos

2009-11-22T13:12:00.000-08:00

Gaantext

SMART Promos – Unlimited Call and Text and Internet Philippines

2009-11-21T23:58:00.001-08:00

Click the headlines to read the details

-
Tags: SMART promos Philippines,Unlimited call, unlimited text.

SMART now has calls overseas as low as 2.5 pesos (about 5 cents) per minute WOW Philippines

2009-11-21T23:36:00.000-08:00

FILIPINOS with relatives based overseas but have no means of contacting them due to budget constraints can now place international direct dial (IDD) calls even if they don’t own a mobile phone. (but foreigners living here can use too to call overseas)

Smart’s latest offering, Hellow, is the country’s first reloadable international direct dialing (IDD) card which can be used on any Smart or Talk ‘N Text cellphone, to make calls for as low as P2.50 per minute to 17 key destinations where the most number of Filipinos may be found in via sachet-sized load denominations of as low as P15.

A reloadable IDD card is Smart Communications Inc.’s newest service offering which caters to the low-end segment of the market. In particular, these are consumers that have logistics problems and those who do not own a cellular phone.

-----------------------------

But note that PLDT offers P1.5 calls to USA, Canada and Sun offers P2 calls to the same locations cheaper than SMART and SUN uses regular load while PLDT and SMART use a special card although the PLDT card is not reloadable. See the links at the end of this post.

-----------------------------------

Dubbed as Hellow, the country’s first reloadable IDD card which can be used on any Smart or Talk ‘N Text cellular phones, allows calls to 17 destinations where the most number of Filipinos may be found, and costs for as low as P2.50 per minute.
-

Unlike other IDD services, anyone can avail of the Hellow reloadable IDD card for P30 from any Smart wireless centers and other accredited resellers. Printed on the plastic card are the unique account number and PIN. The Hellow user just needs to key in these numbers when using any Smart or Talk ‘N Text handset. The per-minute charge is deducted from the Hellow account and not from the Smart or Talk ‘N Text handset.
-

The card is already pre-loaded with P30 that may be used up to the last P2.50. Subsequently, sachet-sized load comes in denominations of as low as P15. Reloading can be done through the 1.3 million Smart Load retailers all over the country. “The per-minute charge is deducted from the Hellow account and not from the Smart or Talk 'N Text SIM in the handset,” Carag said.
-

Mojica said this is Smart’s own version of bucket IDD pricing. A regular IDD call made by a Smart subscriber now costs anywhere between P15 to P20 per minute. “The rationale behind this offering is that we are targeting a specific market. We hope that we register 500,000 buyers of Hellow card in a year,” he said.

US, Canada, Guam, Hawaii – P2.50
Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong – P5
Japan, Australia, UK, Italy, Thailand – P8
Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates – P10
Rest of the world – $0.40 (about P20)

Questions

what will happen if i reload my Hellow IDD card though I still have P10 remaining balance from my previous load? if my previous load expires two days before I reload, which validity of load prevails?

For everyone's info, here's Smart's reply to query: "The 10 peso 'old' load if unused after 2 days will expire. When used, the first consumed is the 'old' load -- first to load, first to expire. Same with our SIM."

You just have to go to any Smart Load Outlet or Wireless Center and give your 11-digit account number found at the front of the card.

SMART HelLOW
RELOADABLE IDD CARD

Introducing the first reloadable international direct-dialing (IDD) card which lets you make a one-minute call for as low as the price of a piece of a candy.

Overseas call for as low as Php 2.50

Can be reloaded for as low as Php 15 from any Smart     E-Load outlet nationwide.

HelLOW can be used on any Smart or Talk ‘N Text cellphone, allowing to call 17 destinations worldwide.

The per-minute charge is deducted from your HelLOW account and not from the cellphone being used.

It’s easy to use. Just dial *4334 from your cellphone, then follow the voice prompt.
-         enter the 11-digits account number
-         enter your 6-digit PIN

Dial the number you are calling overseas in this format:
        00 + Country Code + Area Code + Number
        Ex. 00 1 713 4257660

Payment can be made thru Smart Money or to any Metrobank branch nationwide.

As soon as payment is confirmed, you will receive your virtual Smart HelLOW card within 24 hrs, pre-loaded with Php 30.00 worth of load and the following details by SMS:
1.      Account Number (11-digits)
2.      PIN (6-digits)

Watch youtube video on hellow card http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKmeAkKjUYQ&NR=1

You can buy the online at ebay.ph

30 pesos http://cgi.ebay.ph/SMART-HELLOW-RELOADABLE-IDD-30_W0QQitemZ300374826374QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_211?hash=item45efbc1d86

100 pesos http://cgi.ebay.ph/Smart-HelLOW-Reloadable-IDD-Card_W0QQitemZ190343513603QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_211?hash=item2c515b8603

Read other blog posting on cheap calls and telecommunications
1.50 peso call to USA & Canada PLDT Budget Card

Cheap 2 peso phone call Philippines to USA Canada Hong Kong Singapore & China using SUN

Smart drastically cuts IDD rates to 7 key countries to P2.50/min

2009-11-21T23:17:00.001-08:00

If your not using this rate right now you are losing money!!!!!!

For people living in the Philippines who want to call Dubai, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, USA, Canada you better use this deal NOW as it helps the Overseas contract worker OFW

With Smart’s IDD (international direct dial) rate sale, a 20-minute call to the US which used to cost $0.40 a minute—or P20 at prevailing foreign exchange rates—now costs as low as P2.50 per minute. Enhanced international direct dialing (IDD) offers are applicable to calls made to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the US, South Korea, Canada, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The new rates are applicable to any mobile phone powered by a Smart Buddy or Talk ‘N Txt subscriber identification mode. A minimum load purchase of P50 is required.
-
Callers can avail of the slashed IDD rates by using any mobile phone powered by a SMART Buddy or TnT SIM. A subscriber simply has to key in and send to 8910, to activate the service. Minimum load purchase requirement is P50.00.

Globe Philippines challenges Smart’s speed test claim

2009-11-18T15:29:00.001-08:00

from the INQUIRER.net First Posted 01:46:00 11/16/2009 MANILA, Philippines – The mobile broadband war is getting more intense as the two mobile services rivals try to claim ownership of having the fastest mobile broadband service.

Smart Communications started to run an advertisement claiming that its SmartBro wireless broadband service is the fastest, based on a public field test conducted by a company called PSRC (Philippine Survey and Research Center).

However, rival Globe Telecom, which owns the Globe Tattoo brand, questioned the credibility of Smart’s claims saying that their rival’s test was full of fallacies as it used one website for measurement. In a press conference, Globe’s network engineers claimed that SpeedTest.Net only captures the “burst speed” of the network being tested during a certain period, but not the actual total speed within a sustained period. Continue reading the complete article here http://technology.inquirer.net/infotech/infotech/view/20091116-236525/Globe-challenges-Smarts-speed-test-claim

Consumable mobile surfing for Smart prepaid use

2009-11-16T15:19:00.000-08:00

PREPAID subscribers of leading wireless services provider Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) may now choose from a range of affordable, consumable packages when mobile surfing.

Daily Surf offers 60 minutes of mobile internet use, consumable on a per-minute basis for only P20, valid for 24 hours.

Buddy Surf offers up to 120 minutes for only P40, and is valid for 48 hours. For heavy internet users, Super Surf offers up to 180 minutes or three hours for only P60, valid for three days or 72 hours.

The Daily Buddy and Super Surf packages are consumable on a per-minute basis, (my comment: finally a per minute charge without a complicated 30 minute reconnect forumula ....great for the consumer like me) letting users choose when and how long they want to consume their minutes within the specified validity period.

“Our new mobile internet packages have been introduced in response to public demand for consumable value offerings,” said Annie P. Naval, head of Smart’s Marketing Group.

“As more and more of our subscribers take up the use of the mobile phone to access the worldwide web, we will continue to develop affordable and relevant services to cater to their varying mobile internet needs,” Naval added.

Both packages may be availed of by using a cell phone’s built-in browser, then accessing—for free—the menu through Smart’s mobile portal http://m.smart.com.ph/dataplan, and clicking on the desired package.

The charge will be deducted from the subscriber’s prepaid credit at registration. A P1 prepaid balance must be maintained while subscribed to the mobile internet package. Users may check their subscription status by accessing the same menu. (my comment...no mention is made of direct eload from smart eload retailers.....i hope this is not another nasty wrinkle in the good promotion unless this is geared only for cell phone use and not regular Smart plug it users....which as usual is not made clear)

Any amount of time exceeding the registered browsing period will be charged at Smart’s existing flat rate of P10 for every 30 minutes. Read the complete original article here http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/consumable-mobile-surfing-smart-prepaid-users

SMART BUDDY UNLIMITED MULTIPLY PLAN - FRIENDSTER, FACEBOOK, MULTIPLY & MOBILE PLURK

Also Smart now has a similiar surfing plan for certain social sites like Globe 20 surf

Smart Buddy is proud to introduce the first daily unlimited Multiply plan for only Php20/day!
Make new friends from anywhere on Friendster.
Update your status as you go on Facebook.
Go mobile shopping or check your favorite online store with Multiply!
Keep your karma up on Mobile Plurk.
Tweet all day, from wherever you are on Twitter.

All of these great sites, for a great price, from wherever you are, on the undisputed nation widest network. Only from Smart Buddy. Visit m.smart.com.ph/dataplan on your mobile browser or text SURF to 211 for FREE info or visit http://smart.com.ph/surf.

Tags: Smart Prepaid internet Daily Surf, Smart prepaid internet Buddy Surf, Smart Bro prepaid Multiply plan 20 pesos a day

No substitute for reliability, and what happened at SMART BRO?

2009-11-11T15:04:00.000-08:00

Tags: pldt, smart, smart bro, smart bro internet, smart bro plug it, smart bro share it

In the years that I have been in business, I have learned that there is no substitute for reliability. As an entrepreneur, my word is my badge of honor. I know it is hard, but I have learned this lesson very well in the years that I have been in business. In fact, I would say that if there is a reason why my business has grown, it is because I have always been reliable.

As an entrepreneur, I have learned that I cannot stop finding ways to help my clients. I need to constantly innovate to keep up with their needs that are constantly changing and evolving. This is the reason why I strive to always listen to my clients. In talking to them, I was able to discover something they needed.

Most importantly we make it a point to do things ethically. We conduct ourselves with the highest ethical standards, knowing that in all businesses, there is no substitute for integrity. read the original article here

http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2009/aug/26/yehey/business/20090826bus4.html

What happened to the reliability at SMART BRO these days?

1. SMART introduced a great new product in SHARE IT with great potential. SMART BRO then destroyed it by crippling it by limiting it to only one provincerather than nationwide like its cell phone service and SMART BRO PLUG IT (see if you can find this fact that it is crippled to only one province online).

SMART please make it nationwide subscription to Share It and a truly great product it is by making it nationwide use like other SMART nationwide products like PLUG IT and like cell phone service and make it truly deserving nationwide withpromised speeds 2 mbps delivered for SMART customers.

2. Bills at SMART BRO are always late (even here in downtown) and in fact I signed up for the new SHARE IT recently and the bill is due now but I have not received the bill so how can I pay? And when I tried to access the account online, it said I had to have an account number besides my sim number. So the bill hasn’t arrived, I checked to see if I could email for help and surprise surprise now you can only call customer service and wait and wait on the phone for help and waste my time when a simple email or chat online would be enough. Where did their email service go? Where is the chat service that so many other RELIABLE companies offer online these days? And why not just email bills to customers, at their emails provided in their application immediately? Why waste the money on paper at all? SMART and PLDT now own part of MERALCO and

MERALCO already has a great online email billing system in use by their call center why not learn how to deliver better service from Meralco to SMART customers too by email?

3. And the sign up process for SMART products is degrading to customers requiring them to go back about three times to get the SHARE IT router, once to apply (wait for a representative as they are always busy), then follow up, and finally go back and wait to pay, the line at the cashier at SMART BRO share it in SM Cebu was over an hour wait to pay when I was there recently. Why not take some of those accountants that review credit for new customers and make them cashiers?

SMART BRO made a good decision with PLUG IT and let the retailers sell it right in their stores with no requirements and nationwide service. Why not the same with SHARE IT? What is the difference and why create so many new problems that staff must resolve and these staff cost a great deal of money and less profit for SMART.

And now the new CIGNAL satellite tv is also available from these same SMART business offices that take a week to process credit checks which means more delays probably. It is convenient for the customer to sign up at SMART business centers but it should be a one stop process and payment rather than multiple trips for customers if it isn’t already. Make it a joy to do business not a hassle with SMART.

What I can’t understand is why it takes a week for the review of your simple documents, even for customers who have had SMART before. It would seem they could just require a ID and the payment and viola quick delivery like Globe and Sun now provide. Having the accountants control the process with slow delivery only frustrates the willing customer. Why not contract this service out if it is already taking so long. The process is certainly not simple or quick. Even your Government license now you can get in an hour why does it take SMART a week for a credit review? When MVP was in daily contact with customers, services improved.

I hope senior management is listening to customers these days and not just to cutting costswhich will result in loss of revenue streams if RELIABILITY suffers. And there are some clear areas costs can be cut such as using billling online instead of paper copies where customers choose and eliminating the long credit reviews and the staff could be freed for other duties

I have long been a customer of PLDT and SMART and am a fan .

Stock holders and analysts should be concerned on the man power being used now in SMART BRO when quicker methods are available like email bill delivery, email questions, email surveys after installation and after disconnection, chats online, and cutting out the paperwork?

If its such a good product why not give customers a trial period first? It would cut customer service need as well from dissatisfied customers making waiting hours waiting to see them. And have those call center employees contact every customer after installation and see if everything is ok (survey) and again if they disconnect so Senior managers can respond to early signs of distress like now?

The average speed in USA for internet is now almost 6mbps average for consumers

Wonder what it is here?

Filipino comments on SMART broken

http://www.smartwifi.org.ph/customer-complaint/smart-broken/

manage your accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, reload your pre-paid sim and more from SMART phone and BPI

2009-11-04T18:50:00.001-08:00

Smart Philippines gets new frequency bandwidth

2009-11-02T20:57:00.001-08:00

THE war between Smart Broadband Inc. (SBI) and Globe Telecom is expected to heat up as the former bagged a new frequency bandwidth from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) that would allow them to offer triple play service, a source said. According to the source, the regulator granted SBI 20 megahertz (MHz) in the 2.5-gigahertz (GHz) to 2.7-GHz spectrum. The Internet unit of Smart Communications Inc. was asking for 30MHz in the 2.5GHz to 2.7GHz spectrum.

Among the major players in the industry, SBI was the only telecommunications provider without an allocation in the 2.5GHz to 2.7GHz.

Globe’s Innove Communications Inc., has 15MHz in the said spectrum, while Liberty Telecommunications Holdings Inc. has 40MHz; Bayan Telecommunications Inc., 5MHz; Digital Telecommunications Philippines Inc., 15MHz and e-Telco, 15Mhz.

Besides the 15MHz of Innove, Globe also has 30MHz in the said frequency after its Globe Group of Retirement Fund acquired Altimax Broadcasting Co. Inc., which owns the frequency.

In a letter filed with the NTC, Enrico Español, SBI head of legal and regulatory department said the frequency band will “revolu-tionalize” the way people communicate as it will allow them to stay connected with voice, data and video services or triple play. Español said the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave
Access (WiMAX) services allows the public to be connected in the Internet with high quality audio and video communications for application, especially in education, among other fields.

WiMAX is a technology that provides faster wireless transmission of data and mobile communications. It also offers broadband speed without the need for cables.

With the additional frequency, Orlando Vea, Smart chief wireless advisor, said the company would be able to launch WiMAX next week.

“We have enough frequencies for the moment to launch the service but we still need more,” Vea said.

Earlier, the company acquired the full ownership of Primeworld Digital Systems Inc. (PDSI), which has a 30-megahertz (MHz) bandwidth frequency assignment in the 2300MHz to 2400MHz that can be used to rollout WiMAX nationwide.

In the Philippines, Globe was the first to deploy WiMAX, a technology designed to enable the deployment of wireless broadband access as a cost-efficient alternative to cable and digital subscriber line (DSL).

Globe said its network is considered the first and biggest 2.5-gigahertz WiMAX (802.16e) broadband network in South East Asia. It has about 4,000 subscribers on this network. Its WiMAX service is initially available in selected areas in South Luzon, the National Capital Region, Visayas and Mindanao. Read the complete article here http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/business/5164-smart-gets-new-frequency-bandwidth

SMART BROADBAND AND CELL REVIEWS & PROMOS

Smart 3G Mobile Internet for Php 1 per Minute

SMART Bro, now on WiFi hotspots

Smart Bro 2mpbs Speed for Plan 999

SMART Bro UnliSURF P40 a day, PROMO unlimited internet Philippines

This promo is open to all Smart BRO Prepaid subscribers. For P200, get unlimited surfing for 5 days (120 hours).

Philippine Smart Communications, Inc. has joined Globe Telecom, Inc. in seeking a temporary restraining order to stop pulse billing

Philippine NTC approves Smart text, call promo extension until April 30, 2010

Philippine NTC approves Smart text, call promo extension until April 30, 2010

Smart testing 4G technology in bid to meet rising demand

No unlimited texting, calls during holidays Bah humbug to SMART and Globe Christmas spirit

Philippines' Largest Telco SMART Suffers Broadband Loading Outage

All About Unlimited Texting Services in Philippines Globe/TM, Smart/TNT (Dec 23,2009)

PHILIPPINES Mobile 3G is now cheaper than DSL!

SMART UZZAP unlimited texting 10 peso a day texting to Yahoo & MS Messenger & UZZAP

SMART & GLOBE new six-second pulse billing regime, how to do it

Telco billing row heats up

Smart Buddy ringtone charges unsolicited

Reloading stations to be available to OFWs anywhere in the world

Comparison of unlimited texting offers Sun, Smart, Globe

Smart starts per-pulse billing , dated December 11, 2009

Enrile denounces Globe and Smart for defying the new NTC ruling lowering the cost of mobile phone calls

Globe’s customer service is now online with the new Chat Assist, WHY CAN'T SMART HAVE IT TOO?

SECRETS MAKING YOUR SPEED FASTER ON USB INTERNET

Smart Bro Plug It Plan 999 unlimited plan now available

SMART PHILIPPINES unlimited mobile surfing ON YOUR CELL PHONE & 50 PESOS PER DAY UNLIMITED SMART SURFING

Smart offers flat rate Blackberry service

Philippine SMART Call & Unlimited Text Promos announced today in full page newspaper ads

Smart joins global initiative to launch new mobile TV handsets & Smart launches flat-rate, push mobile email

Smart 1 day unlimited internet for only 50 pesos 3G

Smart joins global initiative to launch new mobile TV handsets

Smart offers flat rate Blackberry service

Smart launches flat-rate, push mobile email

Globe, Smart proposing different voice call rates vs NTC cutting rates

Comparing Globe Tattoo, SmartBro and Sun Broadband Wireless

Smart unveils unlimited email service

SMART TALK PLUS UNLIMITED CALLS AND TEXTING P100 PESOS FOR 19 HOURS WITH HOURS SPECIFIED

19 hours of unlimited calls and texts from 10pm to 5pm the next day.

SMART Talk'N Text Gaanload promos

SMART Promos – Unlimited Call and Text and Internet Philippines

SMART now has calls overseas as low as 2.5 pesos (about 5 cents) per minute WOW Philippines

Smart drastically cuts IDD rates to 7 key countries to P2.50/min

Globe Philippines challenges Smart’s speed test claim

Consumable mobile surfing for Smart prepaid use

No substitute for reliability, and what happened at SMART BRO?

manage your accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, reload your pre-paid sim and more from SMART phone and BPI

Smart Philippines gets new frequency bandwidth

19 hours of unlimited calls and texts
from 10pm to 5pm the next day.