NOW Corp. said affiliate NOW Telecom Co. Inc. teamed up with South Korea’s SK Telecom to roll out 5G or fifth-generation wireless technology in the Philippines.
Under the agreement, SKT will support the entire process of 5G commercialization of the former in the Philippines.
NOW which has a fixed wireless access network may also enter the mobile communications space with SKT as a strategic partner which will provide the latest technologies and consulting services for the entire process of 5G commercialization and offer B2B solutions.
NOW Telecom chairman Mel Velarde said with SKT’s global leadership in 5G, NOW can leapfrog competition and hit the mobile gigabit ground running with almost zero trial and error.
“Imagine the kind of compelling customer experience enjoyed by Koreans from 5G to arrive on our shores by a flick of a finger. That’s what this collaboration is all about,” he said.
NOW chairman Thomas Aquino said the partnership marked a significant step for NOW as it expands its network and joins forces with the number one telco operator that launched 5G commercial services.
“5G is said to unleash gigabit of speeds and it is said to spur growth in the enterprise sector most especially in the areas of internet of things and smart cities. We are excited for this partnership as we grow NOW in new horizons,” Aquino said.
The partnership will leverage on SKT’s expertise to build an advanced telecom network. NOW and SKT will work together in developing 5G technology in the Philippines and the cooperation includes utilizing 5G enabled enterprise IT applications such as iOT, enhanced media experience and smart office.
“SK Telecom is pleased to enter into a strategic partnership with NOW Corp. and NOW Telecom to deploy 5G network in the Philippines. SK Telecom will work closely with NOW to achieve 5G network innovation to deliver greater value to NOW customers,” Shim Sang-soo, vice-president and head of SK Telecom infra business, said.
SKT is South Korea’s largest wireless carrier. SKT launched the world’s first commercial 5G in April 2019, taking the lead over other countries.
The South Korean telco also obtained the number one spot in terms of 5G subscribers in its country, covering major cities nationwide.