James and Nadine Text You Merry Christmas!

Smart Prepaid's sweethearts James Reid and Nadine Lustre, otherwise know as “JaDine”, show us how to make our Christmas extra special!

A status update, a tweet or a post – all of them you can use but make your holiday greetings warmer by sending them a TEXT MESSAGE.

#SmartJaDineChristmas

Pre-order Your iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus from SMART

iPhone 6 available at P1,799/mo; iPhone 6 Plus at P2,049/mo 

Wireless services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has announced the pricing details of its iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus offers for postpaid subscribers, as it officially opens its pre-order page for those who want to claim their new phones beginning November 14, 2014.

Starting Friday, November 7, users interested in getting their hands on Apple’s latest smartphone devices can visit Smart’s pre-order page (www.smart.com.ph/iPhone) to order the iPhone device that they want.

The iPhone 6 (16GB) is being offered starting at Smart Postpaid Plan 999, with P800 monthly cash-out or a total of P1,799 per month. The iPhone 6 Plus (16GB), meanwhile, is also available starting at Plan 999 with P1,050 cash-out every month, or P2,049 per month.

Both iPhone offers come with FREE all-net texts, all-net calls plus consumable data every month which can be used for video and music streaming, file uploads, and downloads, and chatting.

“We know many Filipinos are keenly anticipating the arrival of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, and the good news is they can now get these bigger iPhones from the country’s biggest mobile network. Subscribers can enjoy surfing the Internet, taking photos, downloading apps or playing games on the new iPhones that are now powered by Smart’s expansive coverage nationwide,” said Kathryn Carag, Postpaid Marketing Head at Smart.

Existing subscribers who want to upgrade to the new iPhones can do so with the help of Smart’s Wipeout promo, which allows them to “wipe out” their existing contracts as long as they have less than 20 months left on their contracts.

Corresponding discounts on the wipeout fee will be applied depending on the number of remaining months in the contract. Additionally, every subscriber that avails of the wipeout promo can get FREE 1-year handset insurance on their new iPhones for repair and replacement of the units in case of accidental damage or loss. For more information, visit smart.com.ph/wipeout.

Big-time treatment

Carag added that subscribers can get big-time treatment from the country’s biggest mobile network when they get their newer and bigger iPhones next week.

For interested subscribers who want to check out or claim their new iPhones from November 14 to 16, Smart will take care of their ride to and from selected Smart Stores absolutely FREE! They only need to download the Uber app on their phones, book a ride, and enter the SMARTIPHONE6 promo code to get the ride without any cost. Upon arriving at the store, a special lane will be dedicated for them so they can immediately get and enjoy their devices on that day.

Additionally, for a limited time period since launch, postpaid subscribers who got a new iPhone will be able to choose their own mobile number, if available. This offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be enjoyed when you sign up at any Smart Store nationwide.

As an added treat, each user who subscribes to any iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus from Smart will immediately get three FREE movies they can watch through Blink, a new and innovative mobile app that lets them watch Hollywood blockbusters and TV shows on their mobile phones.

Subscribers can also buy more movies by texting BLINK 60 (catalog movies), BLINK 99 (latest movies) or BLINK 250 (unlimited TV series) to 3161. To enjoy these exciting video content, users only need to download the BLINK app from the App Store.

“We want our subscribers to feel big-time, to feel special, so we have prepared all these exclusive perks and surprises for them when they get their new and shiny iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus from our stores,” Carag added.

For the full list of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus plans and cash-out options from SMART, please refer to the table below:

iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are also available under Smart All-in Plans 500, 800, 1200, 1800 and 2500.

Customers can sign up starting today at www.smart.com.ph/iPhone. For more information please visit www.smart.com.ph. For more information on iPhone, please visit: www.apple.com/iphone.

A VIP Welcome for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus from Smart Infinity

Enjoy two iPhone 6 devices, or an iPhone 6 with a MacBook Air

You may receive two of the world’s most highly anticipated premium devices, the Apple iPhone 6 and the apple iPhone 6 Plus, through Smart Infinity, the premium postpaid brand of wireless services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart.)

Known for its unparalleled customer services, Smart Infinity presents the premium iPhone experience enhanced with perks and privileges exclusive to the brand. Beginning November 7, interested users may already signify their interest for the iPhone 6 or the iPhone 6 Plus through the Smart Infinity website (http://www.smart.com.ph/infinity/iphone6) or the Smart Infinity New Membership Hotline at 848-8806.

New members may receive the iPhone 6 (64GB) and the iPhone 6 Plus (16GB) compliments of Smart Infinity starting on their fully consumable Prestige Plan 5000. On the brand’s fully consumable Premium Plan 8000, new members receive two 16GB units of the iPhone 6 or an iPhone 6 16GB plus a MacBook Air.

“The iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6 Plus, the year’s most awaited smartphones, truly deserve the VIP welcome from Smart Infinity. Now, our members can enjoy a bigger and better iPhone experience only from the country’s biggest mobile network,” said Julie Carceller, Head of the Smart Infinity Business Group at Smart.

Smart Infinity members will get first dibs on the bigger and better iPhones via an exclusive, by-invitation-only midnight event on November 13 in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, where they also stand a chance to enjoy premium prizes, gourmet food and great entertainment all through the night.

“We are thrilled to offer the new iPhones to our members today. Coupled with Smart Infinity’s renowned aftersales service and premium perks and privileges, the iPhone experience of our members is elevated to an entirely new level,” added James Chi, Marketing Manager at Smart Infinity.

VIP privileges

Those who avail of the new iPhones from Smart Infinity can expect a world of VIP perks and privileges unmatched by any other mobile service provider. Some of these exclusive premiums include:

Infinity Relationship Officer. Members have their very own account manager, whom they can directly call for concerns regarding their Smart Infinity account. This service is exclusive to Prestige Plan 5000 and Premium Plan 8000 members only.

Priority Hotline & Smart Store Service. Members enjoy the privilege of having an exclusive 24/7 dedicated call-in service.

Smart Infinity Worldwide Concierge. Smart Infinity fulfills both mobile needs and lifestyle needs as well. Members simply call the concierge for dining reservations, gift deliveries, travel bookings, business services and more, here and abroad.

Smart Infinity Lifestyle App. Access your Smart Infinity services, privileges, account information and international roaming rates with a just a touch.

The iPhone 6 (16GB) is also available compliments of Smart Infinity on their fully consumable Prestige Plan 5000 with a choice of P5,000 worth of gift certificates or a monthly service fee credit worth P5000. The iPhone 6 Plus (64GB), meanwhile, is available at Infinity Premium Plan 8000 with a choice of P16,000 worth of gift certificates, or a P16,000 monthly service fee credit.

Individuals interested in the premium membership services offered by Smart Infinity experience may contact 8488806 or infinitysupport@smart.com.ph. They can also visit www.smart.com.ph/infinity.

PH Goes ‘5G’ Smart Fires Up LTE-Advanced

Co-founder and Chief Wireless Advisor of Smart Orlando B. Vea (first from left) during the tests of 5G LTE-A in Smart last year, where speeds reaching 209.66 mbps were recorded.

Two years after it pioneered the deployment of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) or 4G technology in the country, wireless services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) announced that 5G wireless technology LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), is now running in the Philippines’ largest and strongest network.

Smart switched on LTE-A at the Smart Jump Center in Mandaluyong City recently, setting the next phase of mobile communication technology beyond 4G LTE standards.

LTE-A, also referred to as ‘5G’ by reports on leading global mobile operators AT&T and T-Mobile, delivers data from between 100 megabits per second (mbps) to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps), or ten times faster than 3G services and more than twice as fast as 4G services.

By firing up LTE-A technology on its network, Smart joins only a handful of carriers around the world with an LTE-A network, along with leading mobile operators in South Korea, United States, Singapore, Australia, and Hong Kong.

“Even as our 3G and 4G networks continue to be unrivaled, Smart becomes the first operator to leap into the future and put the Philippines at par with the world’s most advanced countries in terms of mobile communications technology,” said Orlando B. Vea, founder and Chief Wireless Advisor of Smart.

With LTE-A, a 10MB file takes less than a second to download, YouTube videos no longer have to buffer, and video calls are almost lag-free. But beyond speed, LTE-A’s main feature is also its capability to allocate more network resources to users when the need arises. Smart started testing LTE-A across the country in August last year, delivering results of more than 100Mbps in Makati City, in Boracay, and in Davao City during the Kadayawan festival.

Internet for all

Ramon Isberto, Public Affairs head for Smart and its parent company the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), said that the recent development is part of the company’s multi-pronged approach in addressing the various needs for internet and data services in the market.

“The PLDT Group’s strategy has always been to create solutions that address the varying needs of all segments of our customers, to bring fixed, wireless and mobile broadband services where they really matter. They may be delivered at different speeds and volumes, using a variety of technologies, and meant to respond to a wide range of needs of the market – but all of it is aimed at bringing the benefits of the internet to every Filipino,” explained Isberto.

This strategy meant deploying a combination of Fiber-to-the-Home, Next Generation Network, Time-Division Duplex LTE, Frequency-Division Duplex LTE and vDSL to bring internet to every Filipino home, and 3G, 4G, and 5G or LTE-A for mobile subscribers, according to Isberto.

“We are able to deliver all these high-bandwidth services and applications on the strength of our transmission backbone network, which is the most extensive and most resilient in the country. Aside from allowing us to commit to speed, our unmatched network resources give us the edge in terms of efficiency and reliability,” added Isberto.

Smart’s nationwide coverage is backed by PLDT’s fiber optic cable connection which has now reached nearly 90,000 kilometers, or more than four times than competition. To further strengthen this domestic fiber optic network (DFON), PLDT also set up third legs in its fiber loops in key areas nationwide, the latest of which is the Bohol DFON project that provided redundant links between the Visayas and Mindanao.

Smart Unveils Exciting Plans, Perks for Samsung Galaxy S5

Mobile services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has unveiled its lineup of exciting postpaid offers for the much anticipated Samsung Galaxy S5 as it gears up for the smartphone’s simultaneous Philippine launch on April 11.

Users interested in acquiring Samsung’s latest flagship device can get one for free at Smart Postpaid’s UnliSurf Plan 2000, which already comes with unlimited mobile LTE surfing, 150 minutes of calls and 200 of texts to all networks under a 30-month contract.

The Galaxy S5 will also be available for only P1,799 a month under UnliSurf Plan 999, with P800 monthly handset cash-out for 24 months. This plan comes with unlimited surfing for one month plus calls and texts.

“We’ve already said that Smart’s reliable LTE network is the perfect match for the Samsung Galaxy S5, but we’re throwing in additional exclusive perks so our subscribers can best enjoy this new flagship device with the leader in mobile,” said Kathryn Carag, Postpaid Marketing Head at Smart.

“We’ve found that users prefer to enjoy their Samsung smartphones with Smart’s robust LTE network, as reflected by the sales volumes of previous devices such as the Galaxy S4 and the Galaxy Note 3, the demand for which almost tripled last year compared with their respective predecessors,” Carag explained.

Interested users should register their interest now and watch out for more exciting deals and prizes coming their way in the weeks leading up to the local launch of the Galaxy S5, she added.

To be among the first to own the Samsung Galaxy S5, simply log on to www.smart.com.ph/s5 to register your interest in purchasing the latest top-notch smartphone from Samsung. Once registered, users will receive constant updates on promos, offers, and details about the local launch of the Galaxy S5 on April 11.

Exclusive perks

As an added perk, subscribers who pre-registered and eventually subscribed to a Galaxy S5 plan will get exclusive premium deals from Smart, including free one month unlimited music streaming plus access to millions of tracks via a SPINNR VIP subscription and a chance to win one of ten Samsung Galaxy Gear devices to be raffled off on launch day.

Additionally, the first 200 individuals who subscribed to a Samsung Galaxy S5 plan on the first day of availability will be entitled to Smart Gadget Shield, a one-year free handset insurance which covers repair and replacement of the device in case of accidental damage or loss due to theft or robbery.

Limited offer

But for those who want to move up to a more exclusive lifestyle, Smart Infinity also offers a host of Samsung Galaxy S5 plan for interested subscribers, starting with the Aspire Plan 3500 which offers the Galaxy S5 for free.

Those who want to get more with their device can choose to subscribe to the Prestige Plan 5000, which includes the Samsung Galaxy S5, the Galaxy Gear 2 smartwatch, and a choice of free P5,000 gift certificate or one month free monthly service fee.

The Premium Plan 8000 is also available for those who want the complete package, as it comes with the Galaxy S5, the Galaxy Gear 2 smartwatch, and a choice between a 32-inch Samsung Smart TV or P15,000 worth of gift certificates.

Being a member of Smart Infinity includes having personalized service and perks such as a personal Infinity Management Officer, access to the 24/7 international concierge service, a vanity number, a backup SIM, a dedicated hotline (*800), and VIP assistance at select stores.

Subscribers will also enjoy a variety of premium benefits such as access to premier events, lifestyle offers, and exclusive rewards all year round through their Smart Infinity subscription. These limited-time Samsung Galaxy S5 offers come with the standard 24-month contract, and will only be available until May 11, 2014. To know more on how to avail of these exciting Infinity offers, simply visit http://smart.com.ph/infinity.

Widest LTE network

Unveiled during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain in February, Samsung’s latest flagship mobile device features a 5.1-inch 1080p AMOLED display, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 chip and a 16-megapixel rear camera.

Samsung has also updated the look and feel of the Galaxy S5’s chassis and software as it sports a dimpled rear cover and a refreshed look for its trademark TouchWiz user interface. It is available in Electric Blue, Charcoal Black, Shimmer White, and Copper Gold color variants.

The Samsung Galaxy S5 also allows ultrafast mobile Internet surfing via LTE connectivity. With Smart’s widest LTE network around the country, the first Philippine users of the Samsung Galaxy S5 will be able to enjoy blazing-fast Internet connections on their high-end device.

Smart currently has more than 10,000 4G-capable sites (HSPA+, LTE/LTE-A) nationwide backed by 78,000 kilometers of fiber backhaul, which makes the telco best-equipped to meet the data demands of its most demanding subscribers wherever they are in the country.

Anne Curtis, Rico Blanco and Kobe Paras for #SmartBro

Smart PowerApp Gives Free Access to 7 Social Apps This Holiday Season!

Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is giving its more than 56 million subscribers nationwide free mobile access to the latest social networking apps and sites through its revolutionary new service called PowerApp, a mobile application that brings the most affordable unlimited Internet bundles to users today.

By installing PowerApp on their phones, users can get free access to the app and mobile sites of Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Google Plus, LinkedIn, Path and Waze until January 15, 2014. The service is initially available to prepaid and postpaid Smart and Talk 'N Text users in the Philippines.

PowerApp is the world's first mobile Internet storefront which gives users the ability to access their favorite mobile apps and sites without the need for a WiFi connection, making the experience truly mobile.

Users no longer have to stay for several hours locked down to a table in a coffee shop or stay a little bit longer in the office to take advantage of the free WiFi connection.

“A number of smartphone users today only use their smartphones for calling or texting, or wait till they reach their homes or offices to connect to the Internet. Through PowerApp and its affordable Internet bundles, subscribers can confidently keep posting, liking, or tweeting everywhere they go without the need for a WiFi connection,” said Michele Curran, Data and International Services Head at Smart.

Subscribers can now post their photos on Facebook anytime, anywhere; tweet their thoughts on Twitter real-time; check in on any location via Foursquare; share common interests in Google Plus; avoid the chaotic holiday traffic mayhem using Waze; get their dream job with the help LinkedIn; and stay connected with their closest friends via Path with the help of PowerApp.

To activate the free unlimited access to social apps and websites, subscribers simply have to download Smart’s PowerApp via Google Play or and register for the Free Social Package, originally priced at P20 for one day (Social20) or P10 for 3 hours (Social10).

iOS and feature phone users can also text FREE SOCIAL to 5555 (for Smart Prepaid, Postpaid, Infinity and Talk ‘N Text) 9990 (for Smart Freedom Plan subscribers) or 7577 (for Smart Postpaid All-In users) to avail of the promotion.

“With PowerApp, users can continuously enjoy these 7 social networking apps and services absolutely free. PowerApp provides free and unlimited notifications so users can continue to receive updates from background apps without having to incur additional data charges,” Curran explained.

By installing PowerApp on their phones, subscribers can use these mobile apps with absolutely no hidden charges as they are notified every time they access a site or app that is outside their current package subscription. And with free unlimited notifications from running background apps, they are assured that they will not incur unexpected data charges while using the service.

Aside from the Social package, users can regularly subscribe to other bundles that include the Email, Chat, and Photo packages which are similarly available through the PowerApp mobile application.

For workaholics who cannot miss a single email, PowerApp’s Email package is available for P10 per day (Email10) or P5 for 3 hours (Email5). Available apps and mobile sites under this e-mail bundle are Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Outlook.com and Exchange.

Students who love to chat with their friends can now enjoy a wide-range of chat applications from PowerApp’s Chat package. For only P10 a day (Chat10) or P5 for three hours (Chat5), subscribers can have unlimited access to multiple chat applications such as Line, WeChat, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Oist!, Google Hangouts, Chikka Messenger, Viber, and KakaoTalk.

Unlimited #Selfies, #ThrowbackThursdays and #OOTDs are also now possible through PowerApp’s Photo package for P20 for all-day access (Photo20) or P10 for three hours (Photo10). Included apps in the photo bundle are Instagram, Tumblr, Regram, Pinterest, Flickr and Imgur.

For the multi-hyphenated all-around man, PowerApp also has an Unli package which gives them access to all mobile sites and mobile applications. For only P30 for 24 hours (Unli30) or P15 for three hours (Unli15), Powerapp users can enjoy unlimited browsing of all available apps and mobile sites.

While the app is initially available only on Android, iOS and feature phone users can send the corresponding keyword of their desired package to either 5555 (for Smart Prepaid, Postpaid, Infinity and Talk ‘N Text users), 9990 (For Smart Freedom Plan subscribers) or 7577 (For Smart Pospaid All-In users) to avail of the different packages.

“Subscribers can count on Smart to continue to bring these revolutionary mobile innovations to the public as the Internet becomes a vital resource of content and information that enrich their lives and allow them to live more,” Curran added.

For more information on PowerApp and other mobile Internet services and promos, users can go to http://go.smart.com.ph/internet, follow @SmartPromos on Twitter or like Smart Communications, Inc. on Facebook.

*A Boost package is available at the standard rate of P5 per 15 minutes for unhampered access to YouTube and other high-bandwidth applications and sites

Smart Announces Postpaid Plans for iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c

Philippine mobile leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) announced it will offer iPhone 5s, the most forward-thinking smartphone in the world, and iPhone 5c, the most colorful iPhone yet, to customers beginning November 15, 2013.

Launching its online reservation and service application page (www.smart.com.ph/iPhone), Smart revealed today that it is offering its widest range of postpaid plans for the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5c – giving subscribers flexible options to easily own the latest iPhones with the country’s most advanced mobile service network and widest LTE coverage.

“Our subscribers have been keenly anticipating our iPhone plans. The good news is we’re offering a wide range of choices so they can select the plan that will best suit their lifestyle and let them experience the full capabilities of their phone – whether they need fast web browsing, extensive multimedia streaming or frequent use of data-driven applications.” said Kathy Carag, head of Smart’s postpaid business group.

The iPhone 5s (16GB, 32GB, 64GB) and iPhone 5c (16GB, 32GB) will be offered under Smart Postpaid’s Freedom Plan, All-In Plans 500, 800, 1200, 1800 and 2500; iPhone Plans 999 and 2499; and UnliData Plans 1500, 2000 and 3000. Subscribers can enjoy premium perks and services when they avail of the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c with Smart Infinity Plans 3500, 5000 and 8000.

Subscribers can get any color of the iPhone 5c (16 GB) for only P1,499 a month with the iPhone Plan 999 (P999 monthly service fee plus P500 device amortization via credit card). iPhone Plan 999 already comes with 40 free call minutes, 100 free SMS and unlimited data connection.

For those who need more free voice and text credits, the iPhone 5c (16 GB) can be availed with an UnliData Plan 1500 with a P2,500 cash-out. The UnliData Plan 1500 comes with unlimited data connection plus 60 free all-net minutes and 120 free all-net SMS.

Meanwhile, those interested in the iPhone 5s can get the 16GB model for only P1,799 a month with the iPhone Plan 999 (P999 monthly service fee plus P800 device amortization via credit card).

The iPhone 5s (16GB) is also available at UnliData Plan 2000 with a P2,500 cash-out. UnliData Plan 2000 comes with unlimited data connection plus 150 free all-net minutes and 200 free all-net SMS.

For Smart Infinity subscribers, the iPhone 5s (16GB) at Plan 5000 comes with 2 VIP tickets to Wicked or PhP14,000 worth of gift certificates. Plan 8000 subscribers meanwhile get both the iPhone 5s (32GB) and iPhone 5C (16GB).

“We are very excited to offer the most forward-thinking and the most-colorful iPhones to our subscribers. With Smart’s flexible postpaid plan selections and unbeatable LTE-powered network, we’re committed to bringing the best iPhone experience to Filipinos who want superior network service in order to get the most from their devices,” added Carag.

Carag said that exclusive offers await those who will subscribe to Smart’s iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c packages on November 15th. She added that existing Smart Postpaid subscribers who wish to subscribe to an iPhone 5s or iPhone 5c package but are still under contract may opt for Smart’s WipeOut program where they can upgrade to an iPhone without waiting for their active contract to expire.

The complete Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid pricing details for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c are as follows:

Postpaid plans (except Freedom Plan with no lock-out period) are subject to 24-month contract.

*Freedom Plan subscription comes with free 250mb data for the first 12 months.

Customers can sign-up starting today at www.smart.com.ph/iPhone. For more information please visit www.smart.com.ph. For information on iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c packages for Smart Infinity, please visit smart.com.ph/infinity. For more information on iPhone, please visit: www.apple.com/iphone.

Smart Music Launches SPINNR - PH's First Mobile-Linked All-in Music Service

After unveiling Smart Music in July this year, leading wireless services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) brings the promise of making music more enjoyable to more Filipinos to a higher level with the launch of SPINNR - the all-new everything-music site that serves up the "total music experience.”

The first of its kind in the country, SPINNR powered by Smart Music offers more than just music downloads. It makes possible unlimited music streaming at the most affordable rates, playlist customization and access, and the best download discounts.

SPINNR is accessible via web and mobile browser, and with the new SPINNR Android app, music access, discovery and personalization are easier than ever before.

"When we introduced Smart Music, we promised to give Filipino music fans not just the most affordable music downloads and the largest music catalog, but also the total music experience," said Charles A. Lim, Smart's executive vice president and head of wireless consumer business. "SPINNR is the fulfillment of that promise, and we're excited to introduce this service that will further infuse music in the Filipinos' way of life."

With SPINNR, Smart will be the first to offer in the country a music-streaming subscription service with unlimited access to more than 3 million songs from the catalogs of worldwide music leaders MCA Music, Inc. (internationally known as Universal Music Group, Inc.); and Sony Music Entertainment, through a partnership with local licensee Ivory Music and Video.

"For just P15 for two weeks, that's Php1 a day, SPINNR users can easily subscribe to a package via the site or the app to enjoy unlimited full-track streaming of the widest selection of songs," said Mellissa Limcaoco, head of Smart's Innovation and Product Development group. "They can simply click to listen to all available songs - from the current chart-toppers of Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake and One Direction; to the classic oldies, hard-to-find tracks and OPM favorites."

The SPINNR Plus 15 package also offers a 20% discount for full song downloads - further lowering down SPINNR's most affordable download rate of P10-P15 per song. Other membership packages are, SPINNR Plus 7 (P7 for 7 days, with 10% download discount) and SPINNR Plus Premium (P29 for 30 days, with 30% download discount). The SPINNR Plus VIP (P49 for 30 days) offers 50% song download discounts plus first and exclusive access to Smart Music's events, promos and other perks.

"SPINNR is also taking music discovery to the next level by making it more interactive and social. Aside from being able to listen to predefined or create your own playlists, you can also get recommendations based on your likes and you can even post your favorite songs on Twitter and Facebook to let you express how you feel through music," added Limcaoco.

"The soul of the SPINNR service is how you manage and enjoy your music, plus get added music perks through your own personal account - your SPINNR membership," said Lim. "By linking your Smart, Talk 'N Text or Sun Cellular mobile number, you can securely log-in and avail of subscription packages and purchase songs by paying through your prepaid load or charging to your postpaid bill. No need for credit cards."

"And because you can log-in via web, mobile or app through a single account, your activities are reflected in all of these portals, making your music library more accessible and more mobile,' he added.

SPINNR’s music streaming feature addresses the evolving listening habits especially of young music lovers who prefer the streaming experience over downloading the music tracks on their phones. And with Smart’s expansive 4G coverage across the Philippines, music fans will enjoy fast and seamless streaming experience wherever they are in the country.

But aside from having "anytime, anywhere" access to their favorite music, SPINNR members can also have VIP access and meet-and-greet privileges in the most anticipated concerts and music events by both local and international artists. Members also get access to exclusive content and the chance to download tracks and albums as soon they are released.

"We envision SPINNR as a community of Filipino music-lovers having access to the best and the biggest collection of music anytime, anywhere through their mobile," said Limcaoco. "And we will design our programs and activities - whether music festivals, artist engagements, independent music production and promotion - to cater to those who have music deeply integrated in the way they live life. SPINNR is music made awesome."

A preview of the Smart Music experience through SPINNR will be seen in upcoming big music events happening in the Philippines. For the One Republic concert tour, SPINNR will have lucky members experience VIP treatment and an all-access pass to the concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

SPINNR will also give one lucky Directioner (One Direction fan) a chance to bond with the British pop group through a one-hour Google Hangout when the group launches its new album through a global webcast sometime in November.

Powering SPINNR, Smart Music will also launch a music advocacy campaign that will promote responsible use of music content, and for aspiring musicians, hold clinics that will have renowned producers and artists teach them to write, produce and market their own music.

SPINNR is offering first-time users to enjoy unlimited music streaming at no cost for their first 15 days. Registration is open to all Smart, Talk 'N Text and Sun Cellular subscribers via web or mobile browser or via the app from Google Play. To register, simply go to spinnr.ph. For the latest updates and exclusive music promos, join facebook.com/SpinnrPhilippines or follow SpinnrPH on Twitter and Instagram.

Lucky Pinoy Fan Gets Chance to ‘Hangout’ with One Direction Through SPINNR

Mobile leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), through its newly launched all-access music service SPINNR, is giving one lucky Filipino fan a chance to hang out with British pop group One Direction during the band’s “1D Day” global event slated for November 23.

In a one-hour Google Hangout with One Direction during “1D Day”, one lucky Pinoy Directioner (One Direction fan) will get a chance to virtually meet, greet and talk with the members of the British band via video conference along with winners from other Asian countries such as South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan and the Middle East.

“1D Day” is a 7-hour worldwide live stream special that the group has prepared for loyal Directioners in anticipation of the release of their third studio album, Midnight Memories, on November 25. The second single from the album, “Story Of My Life,” has already been released prior to launch.

To get this rare chance to chat and bond with One Direction, fans only need to register at the SPINNR.ph website, the biggest and most comprehensive music portal in the country where Directioners will also get the chance to download the Midnight Memories album upon launch.

“In keeping with our promise during the Smart Music launch, we are giving Filipinos the total music experience through SPINNR, where loyal One Direction fans can now have the chance to get up close and personal with their idols,” said Mellissa Limcaoco, Head of Smart’s Innovation and Product Development Group.

Formed in 2010 after finishing third in the British singing competition The X Factor, One Direction—composed of Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles—has since produced chart-topping hits such as “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Live While We’re Young,” “Little Things” and the first single off their latest album, “Best Song Ever.”

These and other One Direction songs are all available for streaming and download via SPINNR, the country’s first ever all-in music service brought to Filipinos by Smart in partnership with record labels MCA Music, Inc. (internationally known as Universal Music Group, Inc.), Sony Music Entertainment and Ivory Records.

“With SPINNR, we are not just bringing Filipinos’ music experience to the next level by giving them access to millions of digital songs they can listen to anytime, but with events such as 1D Day and the Google Hangout with One Direction, we are bringing them closer to all of their music idols,” Limcaoco added.

Officially launched in late October, SPINNR offers more than just music downloads as it allows unlimited music streaming at affordable rates via desktop or laptop PCs, smartphones, and tablets. For just P15, music aficionados can stream from SPINNR’s vast music catalog for 15 days and get 20% discount on music track downloads. The service is also available for 7 days of unlimited streaming at just P7, and 30 days for just P30.

But aside from providing a service where music aficionados can listen to their favorite tracks, SPINNR elevates the music experience by giving users exclusive access to the latest and biggest music events happening in the country, such as the upcoming One Republic concert tour at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

SPINNR is exclusively available to all Smart, Sun Cellular and Talk ‘N Text subscribers. Users only need to register via spinnr.ph to access the features, or download the SPINNR app at the Google Play Store so they can enjoy their music whenever and wherever they go.

For the latest updates and exclusive music promos, join facebook.com/SpinnrPhilippines or follow SpinnrPH on Twitter and Instagram.

Pinoys Get ‘Augmented Reality’ Treatment at Smart’s First Interactive Concert

Virtual and physical worlds will collide as wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) brings augmented reality technology to the Smart Bro Live and Loud concert, the telco’s first-ever interactive music event that will put audiences in control of their entertainment choices.

Using only their smartphones and tablets, Filipinos who want to experience augmented reality (AR) technology can simply point their devices at any Smart Bro Live and Loud concert poster scattered across Metro Manila and published in major newspapers to experience this unique innovation firsthand.

The AR-powered posters are located in Smart stores, gadget and PC outlets around major malls in Metro Manila, including those located Robinson’s Galleria, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Fairview, Glorietta 2, Alabang Town Center, and Trinoma, among many others.

As an added bonus, smartphone and tablet users who are willing to try out this interactive technology will be rewarded at the end of the experience by entering Smart Bro’s Live and Loud Microsite and register for free tickets to the concert, happening on October 4 at the TriNoMa Mindanao Parking area.

Users only need to download an app called “Zappar” and install it on their Android or iOS device to experience this unique innovation. By pointing the app’s camera at the Smart Bro Live and Loud concert poster, they will instantly be treated to an exciting video experience that will give themmore info on how to enjoy and view the concert.

“Augmented reality gives users dynamic and relevant content they can enjoy on the spot, without having to log on to their notebooks or desktop computers,” explained Michelle Curran, Data and International Services Marketing Head at Smart. “With this innovation, we take engagement to the next level as we prepare to mount Smart’s first-ever interactive concert.”

AR, now made popular by new technologies such as Nokia’s CityLens and the upcoming Google Glass, provides a live and direct view of the physical environment augmented by computer-generated data such as videos, photos, or GPS information to enhance the user experience.

While pointing a device’s camera on a street, for example, electronic data can be placed over buildings and establishments to show its business name, contact details, promotional activities, and other information relevant to the user.

Two of the country’s top newspapers already employ this technology to breathe new life to their static print output, while a number of magazines and other publications use AR to produce more dynamic content for their audience—such as models seemingly coming to life and jumping out of the paper to interact with the reader.

Already an interactive feat by itself, the Smart Bro Live and Loud concert will pool four of the country’s top iconic OPM acts, namely Raimund Marasigan, Barbie Almalbis, Rico Blanco, and Ely Buendia, to perform on a single stage controlled digitally by concert-goers and viewers at home.

The live audience during the concert proper gets the power to control the stage, from setting the platform ablaze with jet sparks to releasing haze and streams of smoke heightening the mystery and excitement of each performance, and even discharging beaming laser lights across the venue, giving the total concert experience to the hands of concert-goers and watchers.

The Smart Bro Live and Loud concert also allows people to vote online at smart.com.ph/LiveandLoud for the top 3 songs that each of the artists will sing solo and collaboratively during the concert.

Subscribers, meanwhile, can get free tickets to the concert through the Live and Loud portal, but those who can’t make it to the concert day itself can view the show through a livestream service accessible via the dedicated microsite and through Smart’s YouTube channel.

“Broadband Internet has empowered many facets of Filipinos’ lives by delivering rich content that they wouldn’t otherwise experience on other platforms. With the Smart Bro Live and Loud concert and its various interactive features, users get the power to control the concert experience, the same way they are empowered to do a lot of new and exciting things using broadband Internet,” Curran added.

For more information on ticket availability and to vote for your favorite songs to be performed live during the October 4 concert, visit smart.com.ph/LiveandLoud.

You're Invited to the Country's 1st Interactive Concert from SMART!

FREE on-line ticket: http://www.smart.com.ph/liveandloud.

The concert will also be streamed live at http://www.youtube.com/smartcorporate beginning 6pm on Friday.

Hashtag: #SmartBroLiveandLoud

Chasing “Rihanna” around Manila with Smart Music

Hundreds of Rihanna fans all over Metro Manila raced against each other and chased their “idol” to grab a couple of limited premium tickets to Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour held last September 19 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Mobile leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), through its largest online music store Smart Music opened the Rihanna Twitter Zoom contest days before the popstar’s Manila concert, encouraging fans to score free tickets by participating in an interactive online game.

Twitter Zoom is an online hunt where Smart subscribers got the chance to win premium Rihanna concert tickets just by registering at Smart Music, following @SMARTCares and @SMARTPromos on Twitter and tweeting the hashtag, #SmartMusicRihanna. For every 500 hastags, the online map zoomed in, leading to the locations of the concert tickets given by a Rihanna look-alike.

Fans and onlookers alike were surprised to see contest participants making a mad dash to the Rihanna look-alike awaiting the Smart Twitter follower who can give her the correct password in exchange of concert tickets.

Smart’s hit Twitter contest also gave away tickets during Black Eyed Peas and Katy Perry’s Manila concert tours.

“When we introduced Smart Music, we promised to provide our subscribers not just the most affordable music tracks but the total music experience. From downloads, to exciting fan events and access to the biggest concerts, Smart Music is the all-in-one portal for the true blue music lover,” said Mellissa Limcaoco, head of Smart’s Innovation and Product Development group.

Lucky chance

The Rihanna Twitter Zoom promo excited many fans of the singers who wanted to experience her concert for free. Netizens flooded Twitter with the #SmartMusicRihanna hashtag, eager to join the unique contest that’s frar from the ordinary Twitter promo.

“Idek but @SMARTPromos got the coolest, craziest and out-of-this-world promo strategies! applause to the team,” said Twitter user @jiiensam.

Other Twitter users applied equally unique strategies to make sure they get the much coveted tickets.

“Nung gabi pa lang, nagbabantay na ko ng Twitter,” said John Paulo Baticulon, winner of the first leg of Twitter Zoom at SM Fairview. “So yung ate ko yung naiwan sa bahay para magbantay ng tweets tapos ako yung tumakbo all the way here. Gusto ko talagang mapanood si Rihanna up close. Parang soundtrack na kasi ng buhay ko yung mga songs niya. So thank you, Smart, for giving this gift to me.”

Along with Baticulon, the other two lucky winners of premium Rihanna concert tickets were Jay Mark Isais who went all the way from a class in the University of Santo Tomas to SM Megamall; and Julius Provido, who braved the night’s rain to finish the last leg at the SM Mall of Asia, coming all the way from his work at Quezon City.

“Nung sinabi na clue ay ‘heart of Manila,’ kumuha na agad ako ng taxi papuntang Megamall, kahit traffic. Then I was using my Smart LTE for monitoring the tweets” Isais said. “Nung nalaman kong may ganitong Twitter Zoom, hindi ko na siya pinalampas. Sobrang idol ko kasi talaga si Rihanna. Her songs really inspire me more.”

Rihanna fans can also download her music for as low as P10 using their prepaid load or charged to their postpaid bill at smart.com.ph/music, along with over three million other songs from the Smart Music catalog.

Smart Music is a co-presentor of Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour in Manila.

Distance was not an issue for John Paulo Baticulon, the winner of the first leg of the Smart Twitter Zoom. At 6 AM, he already left Las Piñas and went all the way to SM Fairview. His sister was the one monitoring the tweets while he was going to the location.

Jay Mark Isais was in a class in his class in the University of Sto. Tomas when the clue was given that second location will be at the “heart” of Manila. With only his determination and a tablet powered by Smart LTE, he maneuvered his way to SM Megamall amidst the heavy traffic and won the second pair of Rihanna premium concert tickets.

As much as Julius Provido wanted to join the first two legs, his work schedule won’t allow him to do so. But when hope came and he found out that the last location of the Smart Twitter Zoom is in the SM Mall of Asia, immediately after his work, he rode the train and braved the rains from North to South, earning him a pair Rihanna tickets.

Smart, Sun, Voyager Announce Partnership with Waze

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), Digitel Mobile Philippines, Inc. (Digitel) through its mobile brand Sun Cellular (Sun), and Smart subsidiary Voyager Innovations, Inc. (Voyager) announced a strategic partnership with Waze (waze.com) to expand local awareness of the crowdsourced navigation app and help Philippines drivers save time on every drive. The wireless services companies, part of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT) [NYSE:PHI], will be the first Philippine mobile operator partners of the social navigation pioneer.

Waze combines GPS navigation technology with social networking, enabling users to swiftly identify the fastest and most efficient map routes. Millions of Waze drivers enable the service to adjust its reports in real time, based on constantly changing road conditions such as heavy traffic or accidents.

Through this partnership, the companies will encourage further expansion of Waze usage in the Philippines through a marketing, promotion and distribution agreement to Smart and Sun’s more than 73.4 million subscribers.

In addition to special promotions, Smart and Sun will pre-install the Waze application on smartphones bundled under its commercial postpaid and prepaid offerings. The Waze Philippines map will display Smart- and Sun-branded retail pins to help extend both companies’ customer service.

Voyager will serve as a critical partner, working with Waze for technology integration and exchange of map data for both Smart and Sun.

“Waze is one of the most innovative and fast-rising mobile apps in the world and we’re proud to make this available to our subscribers. With our fast-growing smartphone subscriber base, Waze is an exciting addition to the growing number of Smart and Sun’s leading global mobile apps partners,” said Orlando B. Vea, Chief Wireless Advisor, Smartand president of Digitel.

“Waze provides real-time and community-based information to make navigating traffic easier, allowing users to better make use of their time to live more. It is especially useful in the high-traffic areas of the country’s major cities and has a growing user base in the Philippines. This partnership is mutually beneficial to all parties – with our subscribers enjoying a world-class mobile app and with Waze having access to the biggest share of the Philippine mobile services market.” said Charles A. Lim, EVP and Head, Consumer Wireless Business Group for Smart and Sun.

“Voyager is bringing Waze, a leading crowd-sourced mapping and traffic information app experience to the Philippines. By downloading the app, users can gain access to a rich navigation experience thru the mobile phone - no need for another gadget. It is just the beginning-- we are bringing more of these innovative services to enrich everyday life,” said Jose Benjamin S. Fernandez, Chief Operating Officer, Voyager.

Early this year, Waze was recognized as Best Overall App at the Global Mobile Awards 2013 in Barcelona, Spain. With the Philippines as one of the fast-growing smartphone markets in Southeast Asia, mobile apps and data usage is on the rise. This process is further enabled by the availability of affordable mobile Internet rates and deployment of supercharged networks of Smart and Sun LTE (long-term evolution), the fastest available wireless connectivity to date.

About Smart Communications, Inc.

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is the Philippines' leading wireless services provider with 57.3 million subscribers on its GSM network as of end-June 2013. Smart has built a reputation for innovation, having introduced world-first wireless offerings such as Smart Money, Smart Load, Smart Padala, the Netphone, and Smart LTE. Smart also offers 3G and HSPA+ services, while its satellite service, Smart Link, provides communications to the global maritime industry. Smart Broadband, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, offers a wireless broadband service, Smart Broadband, with 1.8million subscribers as of end-June 2013. Smart is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Philippines' leading telecommunications carrier, the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. For more information, visit smart.com.ph.

About Digitel Mobile Philippines, Inc.

Digitel Mobile Philippines, Inc. (Digitel), a member of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company Group, is one of the Philippines’ leading mobile telecommunications companies. It offers a wide range of service innovations for mobile telephony from voice, messaging and international roaming services, to wireless broadband and value-added services for consumers and businesses alike through its mobile brand Sun Cellular. As a renowned frontrunner in the industry, Sun Cellular has been notable for significant breakthroughs like unlimited services and the Anti-Bill Shock charging system which continue to encourage the market to embrace mobile technology. It has received accolades over the years with awards such as the Philippines’ Mobile Service Provider of the Year for 2011 and 2012 by the esteemed Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards in Singapore.

About Voyager Innovations, Inc.

Voyager Innovations, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) focused on delivering disruptive innovations for the PLDT group of companies. Voyager is looking at the adjacent spaces around the core telecommunications business working on its intersections with various industries. Voyager is where technology meets life, actively participating in leading edge technology standards, while keeping an eye on what’s possible today.

About Waze

Waze is the social navigation pioneer, leveraging mobile technology, big data and a passionate global community to redefine expectations of today’s maps. Waze is home to the world’s largest network of drivers who work together daily to outsmart traffic and save time and money. The app consistently recommends the fastest routes based on real-time driving and data from millions of users. From traffic reroutes to low gas price alerts and relevant offers from favorite brands, Waze is one of the most comprehensive driving companions in the marketplace. To download the free Waze app for iOS or Android, visit http://www.waze.com.

Smart Infinity Brings ‘Wicked’ to Manila, Unleashes Perks and Privileges to Subscribers

Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), through its premium postpaid brand Smart Infinity, is bringing WICKED -- Broadway’s biggest blockbuster -- to Manila, to offer unique and delightful perks to all Smart Infinity subscribers nationwide.

From now until November 30, 2013, two complimentary VIP orchestra tickets to WICKED will be given to new subscribers of Smart Infinity Plan 5000 or Plan 8000 with a complimentary iPad mini 16GB or a Samsung TV 32” within a 24-month contract.

A special 10% discount on any WICKED ticket will be exclusively offered to all existing Smart Infinity subscribers from now until September 15, 2013.

“This new offer from Smart Infinity continues our tradition of providing only the most delightful experience to our subscribers,” said Julie Carceller, department head of the Infinity Business Group at Smart.

Individuals who are interested in availing of the exclusive Smart Infinity WICKED Broadway offers can choose from the Smart Infinity Prestige Plan 5000 or Premium Plan 8000, that both come with the Infinity VIP privileges:

VIP Customer Service Smart Infinity subscribers have a dedicated Infinity Management Officer, access to a 24/7 international concierge service, priority in dedicated Smart Stores as well as the option to have their preferred mobile number and an extra SIM.

VIP Network Access Smart Infinity subscribers can rely on the Smart network to make clear calls and have always-on, super-fast mobile data connection. Users of LTE-compatible devices can maximize this benefit and enjoy watching movies or videos, upload or download photos and more on their mobile device with no lag, no buffering, and no delays, on the country’s most widely-available LTE service.

VIP Rewards and Privileges Smart Infinity subscribers have access to exclusive premier events and special discounts.

“From our mobile service to customer care to the most unique and thoughtful experiences, Smart Infinity subscribers can truly count on us to deliver,” said James Y. Chi, marketing manager of Smart Infinity Activations.

For more information on Smart Infinity, please call 0918-888-INFO (4636) or visit the Smart Infinity website at www.smart.com.ph/infinity.

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