SmarTone battles competition with multi-device services

SmarTone Mobile Communications expects rising revenues from its focus on marketing double-device subscriptions.

SmarTone is the first Hong Kong carrier to offer a double-device subscription plan. It offers its customers multi-SIM service plans so it can charge more and raise income, said CEO Douglas Li.

He said the arrival of improved 4G-compatible handsets and tablets in the remaining months of the year could make SmarTone’s multi-device service offers more attractive.

SmarTone, however, is a late comer to the 4G game. It will launch its 4G service plans next week, becoming the last operator in Hong Kong to do so. It will charge the same fees as it does for its 3G service.

SmarTone said hopes of charging more for 4G have are unrealistic as its competitors battle to maintain market share amid intense rivalry.

Li does not rule out price cuts but is optimistic of sustained strong growth and more revenue. He feels data usage will continue to grow.

Hong Kong had over 8.3 million 3G or 4G service subscriptions as of this May, up 28% year-on-year, said the Office of the Communications Authority.