Telco expects higher 5G device penetration in 2022

CEBU, Philippines —  Globe expects higher 5G device penetration among its customers in 2022, with the continuous expansion of fifth generation network coverage in the Philippines and the release of more affordable handsets.

As of end-March 2022, Globe logged over 2.0 million devices in its 5G network, which now reaches 96% of NCR and 85 percent of key cities in Visayas and Mindanao in terms of 5G outdoor coverage. Globe’s 5G speed is now three times faster than mobile WiFi, according to Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data for the first quarter of this year.

Globe has made several entry-level and mid-range 5G models available for free if subscribed to a postpaid plan or at a price that is easy on the budget if bought separately.

Also, the Company continues to partner with more 5G- ready telcos around the world to allow customers to enjoy a convenient high-speed data roaming experience.

Globe logged a 5G median download speed of 121.29 Mbps versus the 42.95 Mbps booked by all fixed providers in the Philippines from January to March. Ookla used the statistical validation approach called Hsu's Multiple Comparisons with the Best (MCB) procedure to identify how fast Globe’s 5G median download speeds are in comparison with mobile WiFi speeds.

In addition, the Company emerged as the winner of Opensignal’s 5G Video Experience Award with 71.2 points giving its users the best experience when streaming video over 5G networks.

During the its first quarter 2022 financial briefing held virtually, Globe Ernest Cu, announced that Globe invested total of ?21.0 billion in capital expenditure (capex) in the first three months of 2022, besting same period last year by 10 percent.

The Company’s growing investment in the network proves its strong commitment to deliver #1stWorldNetwork connectivity to Filipinos to address public clamor for better and faster internet connectivity.

About 82 percent of the capex went to data-related requirements to handle the surge in demand for digital services and to provide a higher level of digital experiences for its customers nationwide.

As a result of these investments, Globe built 234 new cell sites nationwide, upgraded over 3.5 thousand mobile sites, and installed 380 new 5G sites as of end-March of 2022.