Philippine mobile operator Smart Communications has introduced LTE technology to the country. In Smart’s network, LTE is currently delivering download and upload speeds of up to 50 mbps.

Philippine mobile operator Smart Communications has introduced LTE technology to the country. In Smart’s network, LTE is currently delivering download and upload speeds of up to 50 mbps. In the future, data speeds will be raised up to 100 mbps, according to the operator.

Initially, Smart’s LTE service has been made available in the island resort of Boracay this Week and will soon be rolled out to other areas. LTE data services can currently be accessed using USB dongles attached to laptops or networks, or, via LTE-powered wireless routers providing WiFi coverage.

“The PLDT Group is committed to extending broadband coverage to 95% of the Philippine population in the next three years. LTE will help us accomplish that goal faster and more effectively,” said Smart’s chief wireless adviser Orlando B. Vea.

In Asia, LTE has been deployed in Hong Kong and Japan, where NTT DoCoMo, a shareholder of Smart’s parent company PLDT, has launched its 4G LTE network.