PLDT launches world's first PLDT TelPad

The Philippine Long Distace Company (PLDT) launched its newest, world’s first, Filipino-made, innovation that will change the face of landline telephones, as we know it. Last night, we were introduced to the PLDT TelPad, which basically is a landline phone, mixed with a 7” touch screen tablet and mainly the features of myDSL and Android 2.2, which means you can browse through the internet, download lots and lots of apps from the Google Android store (Angry Birds, here we come!), play music, and more!




“We are reshaping the future of the landline telephone and we are starting to bring it to the market now. We are proud that the PLDT TelPad was conceptualized and developed here in the Philippines, by Filipinos, using world‐class technology,” exclaimed Napoleon L. Nazareno, PLDT president and chief executive officer.



The PLDT TelPad’s Specifications
• 1GHz Cortex A8 processor
• Android 2.2
• 2GB internal capacity
• SD/USB slots
• HDMI
• 2MP front camera




The TelPad starts at Plan 1849 (1Mbps), Plan 2099 (1.5Mbps), Plan 3095 (2.5Mbps), and Plan 4100 (3.5Mbps). If you already have an existing PLDT myDSL plan, you just have to add P500 on top of your monthly bill to get the PLDT TelPad for free.



If you ask me, one thing that struck me during the presentation of Patrick Tang, PLDT VP for Retail Voice Acquisition, was when he described the PLDT TelPad as “having information right at the tip of your fingers.” He also showed the audience of the TelPad linking government information to the public.

After the launched, I talked to Mr. Tang of the possibility of tying-up with the Department of Tourism regarding Tourism information. I am thrilled, as he was really excited about the idea of helping Philippine tourism. Pilipinas kay Ganda, talaga! Watch out!!! :)



According to Pam, one of the 20 PLDT TelPad models who showed us the new product, she would still bring her cellphone with her. Having the PLDT TelPad will make browsing more accessible to her because it's there while she's on the phone. Also, she's more into the internet features of the new landline.

The uncle of my friend, Matthew Wong, finds it hard to use, especially to the people who aren't tech savvy and to little kids. "It's a good innovation, especially that it's Filipino made, but I think not everyone will be able to adjust to it right away."

I would love to own one and try it out and extensively review it for myself. As for every new gadget there are pros and cons about it. I hope that this innovation will be able to inspire more people to design, create and innovate. We're getting there, slowly, but surely.

See the Official PLDT Telpad Microsite. Here's the Application for Reserving a Telpad Unit. And here's the PLDT Telpad Facebook Fan Page. :)

Some photos courtesy of Yuri of Lost Tsinelas, and here's his take on the PLDT TelPad