Smart first Phl telco to launch Sony Ericsson, HTC smartphones

MANILA, Philippines - Wireless leader Smart Communications Inc. continues to be at the forefront of the smartphone revolution by being the first telecommunications company in the Philippines to offer the Sony Ericsson Xperia arc and the HTC Desire S.

These two devices are powered by Gingerbread or Android 2.3, one of the latest updates of Google’s highly successful smartphone operating system (OS).

“We are firm in our commitment to take the lead in promoting transition to smartphones by equipping Filipinos with the latest technologies and innovations in the smartphone realm,” Smart chief wireless advisor Orlando Vea said.

He added that in true Smart fashion, “we are making it easy for everyone to have access to these devices and technologies.”

Both Gingerbread-powered devices are available through Smart’s postpaid brand, Smart Gold. Smart is offering the HTC Desire S for free at Unlimited Data Plan 2000, and the Xperia arc from Sony Ericsson, free at Unlimited Data Plan 3000.

Subscribers also have the option to get any of these two new handsets free at Smart Gold Consumable Plan 2500.

The Android 2.3 Gingerbread version offers an updated user-interface, improved speed and responsiveness, and an enhanced file, application and power management. It also offers possibilities of application developers making available more advanced apps in the Android market.

“With the arrival of these Android 2.3-powered devices, we have expanded our already extensive line-up of smartphones carrying a number of brands and using a variety of operating systems,” Smart wireless consumer division head Danilo Mojica said.

He pointed out that their Android range in particular boasts of a selection of devices from the mass market to the high-end models, further reinforcing Smart’s goal of providing Internet for all.

Early this year, Smart became the first to introduce to the country the Huawei Ideos billed as “the world’s first affordable Android-powered smartphone”. Shortly after, the company unveiled the Smart NetPhone during the World Mobile Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

Called “a path-breaking smartphone created for emerging markets,” and also powered by Android, the Smart NetPhone is expected to further revolutionize smartphone and app-use in the country with more localized and relevant applications and content.

Anticipating the rise of mobile data traffic due to widespread smartphone use, Smart is both expanding and upgrading its broadband and cellular networks.