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Smart wins Best Mobile Video Experience in PH for 2nd straight year, Ookla says

Gadget Pilipinas
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August 23, 2026  ·  2 min read
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Another Ookla Win for Smart

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

Based on analysis of Ookla’s Speedtest Intelligence data for the first half of 2026, Smart posted a Video Score of 72.82, the highest among mobile operators in the country. The recognition spotlights the network’s strength in one of Filipinos’ most data-hungry habits: streaming video on the go.

Smart, Ookla

Ookla’s Video Experience award measures real-world Quality of Experience (QoE), scoring subscribers across three equally weighted factors: acceptable video start time (under two seconds), uninterrupted playback without rebuffering, and full HD (1080p or higher) resolution in the majority of sessions.

For Smart and TNT subscribers, the numbers translate into everyday wins, videos that load almost instantly, playback that doesn’t stutter, and clearer streams whether you’re watching a livestream, catching up on a series during a commute, scrolling short-form content, or tuning into live sports.

“These 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.

Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President and Officer-in-Charge for Smart, echoed the point: “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.”

Sustaining the 5G momentum

The award lands as Smart continues to expand its 5G footprint nationwide. As of end-June 2026, the number of 5G-capable individual devices on the Smart network grew 30% to 12.5 million, roughly 21% of all individual devices on the network, reflecting sustained migration toward 5G and higher data usage.

Smart, Ookla

Smart’s ongoing investments in network optimization, targeted rollouts, and wider 5G device adoption reinforce the PLDT Group’s push to deliver reliable, high-quality digital services. The company also notes the efforts support the country’s digitalization agenda and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

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Founded in 2009 by Gian Viterbo, Gadget Pilipinas is one of Philippines’ top sources for news, tutorials, reviews and tips about the latest trends in technology, gadgets, games, social and digital media and cyber culture.

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Founded in 2009 by Gian Viterbo, Gadget Pilipinas is one of Philippines’ top sources for news, tutorials, reviews and tips about the latest trends in technology, gadgets, games, social and digital media and cyber culture.

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