Friday, January 6, 2012

Smart Implements New Anti-Bill-Shock For Postpaid Users


Smart Communications introduces a new anti-bill shock feature for its postpaid users, specially for those who use (and unknowingly using) internet on their phones like the iPhone and Android users.

Quoting from the press release, I've found something confusing on this part...

"To illustrate, iPhone Plan 999 subscribers are allocated a total of 250MB* of data every month. Once the data allocation has been consumed, the regular charge of P10 for every 30 minutes of mobile Internet use will be billed above the monthly service fee (MSF).
Regular data charging will continue until accumulated Internet charges reach P1,200—at which point, the plan will work like an unlimited data connection until the next billing cycle."

I'll ask Smart for a clearer explanation on that part. I'll update this post once I receive more info.

UPDATE: Got more word from Smart. The anti-bill shock feature will basically transform your plan into an unlimited data plan once your accumulated Internet charges reach P1,200. Coincidentally, that is also the price of an unlidata subscription.

Full press release can be read below.

Smart blocks ‘bill shock’ with new charge cap

Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is putting an end to unexpected mobile Internet charges as it introduces its new anti-bill shock feature.

Unlike in the past, where charges continue to pile up because of unknown or unintentional use of data connectivity (e.g. via automatic app updates, location-based services, etc.) the new feature automatically kicks in to prevent overcharging.

Starting today, Smart Data Lite Plans 500, 800 and 1,000 and iPhone Plans 999 and 2499 will enjoy the worry-free data charge cap without the need to enrol or sign up for a separate package unlike those offered by the competition.

To illustrate, iPhone Plan 999 subscribers are allocated a total of 250MB* of data every month. Once the data allocation has been consumed, the regular charge of P10 for every 30 minutes of mobile Internet use will be billed above the monthly service fee (MSF).

Regular data charging will continue until accumulated Internet charges reach P1,200—at which point, the plan will work like an unlimited data connection until the next billing cycle.
“Not everyone is able to keep track of their data usage, which is why Smart subscribers need not register to the new anti-bill shock feature,” said Smart Mobile Marketing Head Guido Zaballero. “Now, both new and existing subscribers can enjoy the power of mobile Internet minus the hassle,” he added.

The best network
Smart makes available only the best connectivity to the best devices.  It is the only telco in the Philippines with a dual band 4G HSPA+ network which gives smartphones and other mobile devices better signal reception, faster connection speeds, and better battery life.

Together with its parent company, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), comprehensive upgrades are being made to transform the network into one that is more than ready to meet the demands of a data-driven future.

Last year, Smart has reported that it has detected a six-fold increase in mobile broadband use in its network.

“We have recorded a tremendous increase in data consumption as evidenced by the spikes in usage,” said Smart Chief Wireless Advisor Orlando B. Vea. “If there are still doubts about where the industry is headed, this should put an end to all speculation,” he added.

To date, network elements such as fiber optic cables, wireless base stations, and international gateways have been modernized under the P67.1 billion endeavor.

For more information about Smart’s postpaid plans log on to www.smart.com.ph/postpaid or visit the Smart Wireless Center nearest you.
*Data limits vary per plan.

About Smart
Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is the Philippines' leading wireless services provider with 47.7 million subscribers on its GSM network as of end-September 2011. Smart has built a reputation for innovation, having introduced world-first wireless data services, such as Smart Money, Smart Load, Smart Padala and the Netphone . Smart also offers 3G and HSPA services. Its Smart Link service provides communications to the global maritime industry. Smart Broadband, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, offers a wireless broadband service, Smart BRO, with over 1.5 million subscribers as of end-September 2011. Smart is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Philippines' leading telecommunications carrier, the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. For more information, visit http://www.smart.com.ph.

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