Smart eyes AI platform as new revenue stream

Smart Communications Inc., the wireless arm of Philippine telco giant PLDT Inc., anticipates its newly launched artificial intelligence (AI) platform will become a significant new revenue stream as it explores embedding the technology into e-commerce and other digital transactions. On Tuesday, Smart first vice president Lloyd Manaloto said AI.Smart had already attracted paying users following its soft launch. The company is focusing on integrating AI functionalities into its existing services and creating new business models to monetize the AI platform. The Philippines' digital economy is rapidly expanding, with e-commerce experiencing particularly robust growth. In this dynamic market, Smart's strategic utilization of AI technology to deliver new value is expected to enhance its competitive edge. The adoption of the AI platform is also seen as a move to improve customer experience and operational efficiency. The country is actively seeking foreign direct investment (FDI), with the technology sector being a key area of interest. The proactive steps taken by domestic leaders like Smart in the AI domain could potentially drive the overall development of the Philippine digital economy.