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

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. Quick facts about Smart Communications

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. Philippines Smart Communications  Coverage and Speed in the Philippines

Let’s explore how Smart Communications brings widespread coverage and lightning-fast speeds to the Philippines

1. 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.

2. Smart speed

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.

III. Smart connectivity options for travelers to Philippines

When traveling to the Philippines, tourists have three options to connect with Smart Communications: either purchase a SIM card, use their pocket wifi for connection, or opt for roaming with Smart using their current network provider. 

Here’s a concise comparison of connectivity options with Smart Communications:

Criteria	SIM Card	Pocket Wifi	Roaming
Pros	– Quick, direct connectivity – Cost-effective	– No need to remove SIM card	– No need to remove SIM card
Cons	– Requires steps to connect	– Inconvenient to  carry – Limited signal range – Higher cost compared to SIM	– Requires deposit for renting – Higher cost compared to SIM – Higher costs

From the table above, it can be concluded that purchasing a SIM card is the most convenient and cost-effective option because it offers quick and direct connectivity.

IV. Best 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:

Plan	Cost (USD)	Data	Texts	Calls	Validity
Smart Prepaid	Pay-as-you-go	Open Data	Unlimited Smart/TNT	Unlimited On-Net	NA
Smart Giga Unli	$5.40	8GB	Unlimited All-Net	Unlimited Smart/TNT Calls	30 Days
Smart GigaUnli99	$1.79	2GB	Unlimited Smart/TNT	7PM-7AM Smart/TNT Calls	7 Days
Smart Signature Plan 599	$10.85	Unlimited Data	Unlimited All-Net Texts	Unlimited Smart/TNT Calls	30 Days
Smart Signature+ Plan 999	$18.09	Unlimited Data	Unlimited All-Net Texts	Unlimited All-Net Calls	30 Days

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.

V. Does Smart Communications Philippines support 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.

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. How to activate Smart Communications Philippines SIM/eSIM

It’s not difficult to use a Smart Communications SIM/eSIM for Philippines. If this is your first time using it, please check the instructions below.

1. How to use Smart Communications Philippines SIM card

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready.

1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
2. Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
3. Activate the SIM card: In most cases, Unitel Laos SIM card will be pre-activated
4. Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
5. Check your services.

2. How to activate Smart Communications Philippines eSIM

Getting started with an Smart Communications eSIM for Philippines  is quite easy as follows:

1. Install the eSIM: Access device settings, add eSIM using provided QR code or details.
2. Activate the eSIM: Follow prompts to verify identity and select plan.
3. Set up the eSIM: Restart device if necessary, eSIM is ready for use.
4. Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.

Please check your detailed instructions below:

• Activate eSIM on iPhone
• Activate eSIM on Samsung
• Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

VIII. Alternatives to PhilippinesSmart Communications

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

Feature	Smart Communications	DITO Telecommunity	Globe Telecom
Services Offered	Mobile, fixed-line, internet	Mobile, internet	Mobile, fixed-line, internet
Coverage	Wide national coverage	Expanding, prioritizing reliability	Extensive coverage, stable service
Plans	Diverse and flexible	Competitive, affordability-focused	Wide range, includes entertainment
Innovation	Offers digital solutions	Focuses on fast, reliable internet	Introduces innovative bundles

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

IX. FAQs about Smart Communications in Philippines

X. 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.