Smart continues to lead in mobile video experience as 5G adoption grows

Smart Communications, Inc. has once again been recognized by Ookla for delivering the Best Mobile Video Experience in the Philippines for the second straight year.

Image from Smart

Smart is still the best in mobile video experience

Based on Speedtest Intelligence data for the first half of 2026, Smart posted the country’s top Video Score of 72.82. This reflects faster start times, smoother playback, and clearer HD resolution across popular streaming platforms.

The Video Experience award is based on three equally weighted components: acceptable video start time, uninterrupted playback, and full HD resolution.

For millions of Smart and TNT subscribers, this means videos load in under two seconds, play without rebuffering, and stream in full HD in many locations in the country, especially when connected to a 5G-ready device.

Smart's sustained 5G rollout continues to drive its growth. 

The company's investments in network optimization, targeted rollouts, and wider adoption of 5G-enabled devices continue to drive Smart's 5G growth.

5G‑capable devices on its network rose to 30% to 12.5 million as of June 2026, now 21% of all individual devices.

This back-to-back recognition reflects the work of our network teams to continuously strengthen and improve our infrastructure. From expanding coverage in underserved communities to increasing capacity in high-demand areas, every enhancement is driven by our commitment to delivering the best possible mobile experience for our customers, said Debbie M. Hu, First Vice President and Head of Wireless Networks at Smart.

Video has become an essential part of everyday digital life for Filipinos, and our customers expect their mobile network to perform consistently wherever they go. This latest recognition from Ookla affirms that our network investments are translating into meaningful improvements in customer experience, and I encourage everyone to see the difference by streaming with Smart, said Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President and Officer-in-Charge for Smart.

These efforts reinforce PLDT Group's push to deliver world‑class digital services, support the country’s digitalization agenda, and contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.