It has been revealed by Smart executives in previous media interviews but no concrete details have been announced yet. However, it seems like the telco is introducing its own version of what might be called Smart WiMax.

A number of sources tipped in saying Smart’s WiMax network could be launched as early as May 15, 2010 (that’s this Saturday).

smart wimax

It’s yet unclear which regions will the service be available but initial speculations peg the plans to be similar to Smart’s own SmartBro service — Php998 for up to a 2Mbps plan.

Smart has heavily invested in its 3G network for the past several years (under the SmartBro brand) and it might not make sense to roll out a WiMax network at this time which might only eat into its own market share.

However, I believe Smart’s move is to expand capacity and provide a better last-mile solution — offer WiMax service to areas where 3G signal is non-existent to weak. This way, Smart will not look like its behind other competitors like Liberty Telecoms (Wi-Tribe) and Globe Telecom (Globe WiMax); at the same time, Smart will be able to service the remaining parts of the country not reached by 3G.

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