Smart Communications SIM Cards and eSIM 2024: a Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Daisy Rodriguez

|

Latest update: October 2024

Smart Communications, a leading communication company in the Philippines, is well known for its advanced services and wide coverage connectivity services. Continue reading this release to comprehend the process and basic steps to start using Smart’s service in the shortest time possible.

I. Overview about Smart Communications – What you need to know

Smart Communications are pioneers in cloud-based customer communications management software. Their core services revolve around helping enterprises deliver exceptional customer experiences across any channel at any time.

• Founded year: 2004
• Full company name: Smart Communications Inc.
• Types of services provided: wide range of services, including mobile communication (calls, texts), mobile internet, digital content services,millions of subscribers and enterprise solutions.
• Number of subscribers: millions of subscribers
• Coverage: extends across the Philippines, reaching urban areas, rural communities, and even remote locations.
• Customer support: available 24/7.

II. Smart Communications coverage in Philippines

Smart seems to be doing an excellent job at expanding and optimizing its coverage, especially when it comes to next-gen 5G:

• Smart wins three out of four coverage awards outright in the national analysis: 5G Availability, 5G Reach and 4G Coverage Experience.
• For 5G Availability, Smart spends the greatest proportion of time connected to 5G networks at 15.9% of the time, compared to Globe’s 9.2%.
• On 5G Reach, Smart scores highest at 4.7 points out of 10 for finding 5G signals in the most locations visited. Globe scores 4 points.
• For 4G Coverage Experience, Smart wins with a score of 8.2 points out of 10 for connecting to 4G in the most locations visited. Globe is next at 8.1 points.
• Regionally, Smart wins the Download Speed Experience award outright in 11 out of 17 regions.

So in summary, Smart leads the way in national 5G availability, reach and 4G coverage, as well as regional download speed coverage according to this report.

III. Smart speed in Philippines

Experience fast speeds with Smart Communications, keeping you connected smoothly in the Philippines!

Download Speeds:

• Smart wins the overall Download Speed Experience award outright with a score of 25.3 Mbps, 2.6 Mbps (11.2%) faster than DITO and 9.1 Mbps (56%) ahead of Globe.
• Smart also has the highest score for Download Speed Experience – 5G Users at 51.3 Mbps versus Globe’s 32.9 Mbps.

Upload Speeds:

• DITO wins the Upload Speed Experience award nationally with 5.2 Mbps, while Smart is in 3rd place with 4.2 Mbps.
• On Upload Speed Experience – 5G Users, Smart’s score of 6.1 Mbps is slightly behind Globe’s 6.2 Mbps.

IV. Does Smart Communications Philippines have eSIM?

Yes, Smart Communications Philippines supports eSIM.

Comparatively, eSIM offers advantages such as:

• Convenience: No physical card to worry about.
• Flexibility: Easily switch between multiple networks.
• Remote Activation: Activate without visiting a store.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces plastic waste.
• International Roaming: Seamless roaming without physical swapping.
• Space-saving: Frees up device space.

You can buy eSIM directly from Smart or choose a trusted online provider.

Unfortunately, Gigago is currently not offering eSIMs for Smart Communications due to several reasons:

• Technical issues: Gigago may face technical challenges.
• Regulatory requirements: Compliance with regulations could be a hurdle.
• Operational constraints: Infrastructure or resources may be lacking.
• Strategic priorities: Gigago may prioritize other initiatives.

With GigaGo’s eSIM data plans from major carriers like Smart, Globe, and Dito, ranging from $11.99 for 5GB to $34.99 for unlimited data for 30 days, travelers can easily activate mobile connectivity in the Philippines right on their eSIM-only phones without needing a physical SIM card.

V. Top Smart Communications SIM cards for tourists & cost

Travelers can explore the top Smart Communications SIM card options tailored for travelers and their respective prices in the table below:

If your device is eSIM-only or you like to use eSIM to avoid the hassle of getting your SIM swapped physically, you may also be wondering whether Smart Communications supports eSIM. Let’s check the content below to find out.

VI. Where can you buy a Smart SIM card and eSIM?

If you’re looking to get a Smart SIM card or eSIM for your trip to the Philippines, you have a few options:

1. Where to buy Smart Communications SIM for Philippines

To buy a physical SIM from Smart Communications in the Philippines, you can refer to the article below:

Upon Arrival at Philippine Airport

• Convenient access to Smart prepaid SIM cards at airport kiosks and retailers in NAIA (Manila), Mactan-Cebu, Clark, Kalibo, and other major airports.
• Purchase SIM cards with affordable data packages immediately upon landing.

Smart Communications Store

• Wide network of branded stores across the Philippines.
• Select from the latest SIM-only and handset plans with assistance from in-store experts.
• Services include SIM replacements, plan upgrades/downgrades, billing inquiries, and more.

Other Authorized Retailers

• Extensive distribution network of accredited retailers and resellers.
• Purchase Smart prepaid SIMs, load packages, phones, and accessories at various outlets including Electronic Boutiques, SM Appliance Stores, Gaisano Malls, and neighborhood stores displaying Smart branding.

Online Purchase (Smart eSIM)

• For eSIM compatible smartphones, you can purchase and activate a Smart eSIM digitally before or during your travels to the Philippines through the GigaGo platform. 
• GigaGo offers Smart eSIM data packages from $11.99 for 30 days usage right on your device.

Whether buying upon arrival or purchasing from Smart’s extensive retail network, getting connected to the Smart Communications network in the Philippines is made convenient with multiple options to acquire SIM cards for locals and visitors.

2. Where to buy Philippines Smart eSIM

The process of buying an eSIM involves the following steps:

• Choose a network provider or service provider that supports eSIM.
• Check the compatibility of your device.
• Purchase the eSIM from the network provider or online.
• Receive the activation code.
• Activate the eSIM on your device.
• Complete the setup and start using it.

Tips: 

• Check coverage: ensure you have good signal strength and internet connectivity wherever you go.
• Choose right plan: Pick one that suits your usage and budget.
• Check for Compatibility: ensure it’s compatible with your phone or tablet.

VII. A Better Alternatives to Smart Communications SIM Card – Philippines eSIM

Below is a comparison table featuring three major telecommunications providers in the Philippines: 

Discover Gigago’s eSIM convenience today! Sign up for flexible service packages on our website.

VIII. FAQs about Smart Communications in Philippines

IX. Final words

Smart Communications SIM cards purchasing and usage in the Philippines are the easiest tasks. Just go to the premises of an authorized reseller, decide on the offer that suits you, and deliver the service. Match the benefits of Smart Communications SIM cards and eSIMs for the unsurpassed communication in the Philippines.