Since Smart Communications Inc. became the first to launch 3G services in 2006, its subscribers have been experiencing greater convenience by using their Smart handsets to have affordable and mobile Internet access at broadband speeds.
With Smart, any 3G-capable handset can be used as a modem to connect a laptop or a PC to the Internet, at only P10 for every 30 minutes — no more expensive per-kilobyte charges.
All one needs is the CD and USB cable that usually comes free with every 3G-capable handset, and 3G signal.
In areas with Smart 3G signal, subscribers are looking at broadband speeds as fast as 384 Kbps, or six times faster than dial-up speeds.
Smart subscribers may install onto their computer the software from the CD that comes with the handset.
After installation, the software is ready to connect the handset to the computer whether via USB cable, Bluetooth or infrared. When the two are connected, the handset is ready to act as modem and connect the computer to the Internet.
In the absence of a computer, Smart subscribers may surf the Internet at broadband speeds right on their 3G-capable handset, using the phone’s built-in Internet browser.
To make the service available to more people, Smart offers the same fixed and affordable rate to non-3G Internet users via GPRS and EDGE.
“The high-speed Internet service we offer our subscribers presents a very unique value in the market because it addresses the needs of both casual and heavy Internet users. It makes for a truly mobile Internet experience at a price that is not prohibitive at all,” said Jerome Almirante, Smart’s 3G business head.
To activate Smart 3G, text SET 3G <phone model> to 211.