Smart posts double-digit growth in active data users in 2021

PLDT's wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recorded 42.6 million active data users in 2021, up by 11% versus 2020.

"We are confident that with the easing of mobility restrictions, the increase in economic activity and the growing adoption of 5G, we will see a lift in Individual wireless revenues," said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO.

PLDT's Individual Wireless business, which includes mobile brands Smart and TNT, held steady in 2021 despite limited mobility brought about by pandemic-related restrictions and increased competition.

For the year, Individual Wireless revenues hit Php86.2 billion, matching the previous year’s record performance, with data/broadband contributing 80% of the segment’s revenues.

The increase in active data users followed strategic brand building campaigns and product innovations, channeled mainly through Smart’s GigaLife mobile app, which increased brand relevance and enabled stronger customer digital adoption and engagement. These resulted in increases in mobile data traffic which grew by 16% to 3,337PB for 2021.

The GigaLife app, which has acquired over 10 million users in less than 2 years, is the most downloaded network management app in 2021, according to App Annie, a leading global provider of mobile data and analytics.

GigaLife App's other features and integrations have also enhanced further the customers’ digital lifestyle.

GigaPay allows users to link their PayMaya wallet for in-app transactions such as buying load, subscribing to promos, and paying bills. Meanwhile, GigaPlay provides exclusive content experiences on the Smart network, giving users access to the NBA, PBA, K-pop concerts, Korean dramas, pay-per-view films and variety shows. GigaPlay will continue to expand its content library and will be streaming the UAAP games live starting March 2022.

With its integrated rewards platform GigaPoints, customers can also convert points earned into data offers, products and devices.