PLDT-Smart to shut down 3G network in 2023
PLDT-Smart has announced its plans to shut down its 3G network services in 2023.
For those unaware, 3G is the third generation of wireless mobile telecommunications technology, which is an upgrade over 2G, 2.5G, GPRS, and 2.75G EDGE networks, offering faster data transfer and better voice quality. This network was superseded by 4G and later on by 5G.
According to PLDT Network head Mario Tamayo, terminating their 3G technology will allow the telco to maximize its frequencies with other technologies it uses.
PLDT chief finance officer Annabelle Chua said that with the shutdown of Smart's 3G services, there is an opportunity to optimize their network. She also noted that there is only "less than 5 percent of devices use 3G."
Meanwhile, PLDT-Smart president and CEO Alfredo Panlilio added that only 4 percent of their subscribers were using the 3G network and that the Philippine market is "ready" for its shutdown.
While the transition from 3G to 4G is "easier," Panlilio believes that converting 2G consumers to 4G LTE will be the "bigger challenge."
Panlilio also added that PLDT and its other divisions, such as Maya, are collaborating to "deliver solutions," such as offering affordable smartphones to assist 2G and 3G subscribers in upgrading to 4G or even 5G.
DITO Telecommunity, unlike PLDT and Globe, does not offer 2G or 3G networks.
Also read:
Smart Communications has been urging its subscribers to upgrade their 2G/3G SIM cards to 4G- and 5G-ready SIMs to experience faster data speeds.
Via GMA News, ABS-CBN News
Posting Komentar untuk "PLDT-Smart to shut down 3G network in 2023"