Smart Communications ended 2025 on a stronger note as its wireless business bounced back in the fourth quarter. The PLDT-owned operator posted a 5 percent revenue increase compared to the previous quarter, showing signs of recovery after a slow start earlier in the year.
The rebound was driven by higher average revenue per user (ARPU) and more 5G adoption. Smart Prepaid saw a 5 percent ARPU rise, while TNT recorded a 3 percent increase. Subscriber growth also picked up, with over 606,000 net additions in Q4. Churn was steady at 2.5 percent by year-end.
Smart’s network investments continued to pay off. By the end of 2025, the company had 11.2 million 5G-latched devices, up 35 percent year-on-year. Affordable 5G phones helped boost adoption, leading to an 88 percent jump in 5G data traffic.
Fixed Wireless Access revenues also grew 22 percent to ₱1.8 billion, thanks to rising demand for 5G routers.
The company’s network performance was recognized internationally. Ookla awarded Smart as the “Best Mobile Latency” provider for the first half of 2025, with improvements in responsiveness for streaming, gaming, video calls, and mobile payments.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S26 Series now available for pre-order with Smart
Smart executives said the results show progress in delivering more value to customers while keeping investments in network quality. Looking ahead, Smart is optimistic about 2026, supported by continued network upgrades and expanding digital services.
Will 5G adoption continue to drive Smart’s growth in 2026? Stay tuned.
