PLDT’s wireless arm, Smart Communications Inc., has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ateneo de Manila University to partner in the development of next-generation applications and services that will run on Smart’s 5G wireless network.
Under the memorandum, PLDT-Smart, together with their technology partner Nokia, will help set up Ateneo’s Convergent Technologies Center with a 5G lab—enabling students and tech experts to co-develop practical and relevant solutions.
Among the applications being eyed for development are Internet of Things solutions, Augmented and Virtual Reality services, robotics, drones, and analytics.
To support these research activities, Smart is deploying 5G base stations in the Ateneo campus.
“We’re truly grateful for this gift. More than just a tool, we are excited about the applications, especially as it refers to inclusion, resilience and sustainability. Our technology these days can be a wonderful toolbox, and we believe that it can be a portal to greater things,” said Ateneo President Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ.
“Technology should be used to improve the welfare and the lives of the people. It is our most profound hope that the provision of 5G will further enable the students of the Ateneo to create, develop, and explore new ways to continuously uplift our nation,” PLDT-Smart chairman and CEO Manny Pangilinan said.
The launch of 5G at the Ateneo is the third leg in the PLDT Group’s roadmap of 5G deployment in the Philippines.