Why Smartbro Is the Largest Broadband Network in the Philippines

Google for “Smartbro” and you will find tons of complaints and dissatisfaction with Smartbro (though there are some good feedbacks). I’m currently a subscriber (again…) and I can say that the service is not really good. There was even a period in my subscription that the connection is lost every time it rains. Among the common complaints are slow connection, intermittent disconnection and no torrent support.

Yet with all the bad feedbacks, Smartbro has managed to become the largest broadband network in a relatively short span of time. Like with all successful business they found a “need” and they provided a solution.

Infrastructure development in the Philippines is confined to the key cities and most of the other Internet Providers have focused in these areas. For reasons of feasibility and profitability, it is impractical for wired services to lay-out their service cables to countrysides and sub-urban areas. However Smartbro has offered service in these areas were there are demands for broadband internet service yet no other company is willing to service.

It all lies in the technology and technology of Smartbro. It’s a Wireless WAN (wide area network) though it has some degrees of unreliability it is relatively easier to deploy and expand. Since Smart already has a wide GSM infrastructure, expanding their Smartbro service is more or less just a matter installing internet access point to these towers.

Applying for a Smartbro service is also a breeze, they just require 1 valid ID and the Php 999 1month service fee. The standard install time is 2-3 business days according to their agent but mine got installed immediately the next day. I tried applying for Globe Wireless broadband and it was such a hassle. They require several documents like 2 valid ID’s, Income Tax Return (ITR) and some proof of billing. Considering the socio-economic atmosphere here in the Philippines, how many people do you think can provide all this documents?

I hope Globe Wireless Broadband could catch up soon so the broadband service won’t be monopolized by Smartbro. They could start by giving the applicants less hassle in the requirements, offering better speeds (which they are already doing) and doing some quick-install campaigns.