Cloud usage ‘to rise with LTE deployment’

CLOUD-BASED services such as online storage, backup and file sharing applications will see a spike in usage in the Philippines with the introduction of super-fast wireless technologies such as Long Term Evolution or LTE, said an official of Smart Communications.

According to Smart Broadband Internet and Data Services Head Lloyd Manaloto, cloud services are quickly gaining mainstream acceptance around the world as major mobile operating systems such as Android, iOS and Windows offer cloud-based services to their users.

Apple, for example, has integrated its proprietary iCloud backup technology to all
devices running the latest versions of its OS.

Android and Windows are offering the same services with Google Drive and Microsoft SkyDrive, respectively.

“We are creating more data than what can be stored in just a single memory card or hard drive, which is why being able to store and access everything online is such an attractive proposition,” said Manaloto.

“Cloud technology is the future of mobility and for you to fully enjoy its benefits, you need a high-speed connection like Smart LTE,” he said.

As the only wireless services provider with a functioning LTE network in the Philippines, Smart is ready to make available consistent high-speed connectivity on mobile devices, the company said.

In a round of beta tests earlier this year, Smart LTE has been proven to deliver speeds of over 100Mbps, making it ideal for transferring and downloading large files such as video from the web.

Because of its latency, LTE will also make possible large-scale multi-player games on mobile.

“With LTE, accessing software and services on the web will be as quick as when you open files or programs stored locally in your computer’s hard drive,” Manaloto said.

“LTE’s low latency also ensures a reliable connection comparable to that of a high-speed wired connection such as DSL,” he added.

With its P67.1-billion network upgrade now on the final stages of optimization, Smart, together with parent company PLDT, is ready to back up LTE technology with a network that includes over 50,000 kilometers of fiber optic cabling and the latest Single Radio Access Network located across the country.

“With the infrastructure set, LTE is ready for deployment,” said Manaloto. “Expect our commercial offering to come out soon,” he said. (PR)