Globe Telecom announced yesterday the launching of its WiMax service that will enable more Filipinos to connect to the Internet.

“Now, people who previously had little or no options for broadband Internet connection are now able to access the Internet through Globe Broadband, powered by WiMax,” the company said.

WiMax or worldwide interoperability for microwave access, is a standards-based technology designed to enable the deployment of wireless broadband access as a cost-efficient alternative to cable and DSL.

The new technology can cover distances greater than those of other wireless technologies, such as WiFi, CDMA or 3G.

Globe said its network was the first and largest 2.5Ghz WiMax (802.16e) broadband network in Southeast Asia.

The company said its WiMax service, available starting this month, was a high-speed Internet plan that let users surf the Web at speeds of up to 512 kilobits per second for P795 a month.

“We challenge anyone with a competitive wireless subscription to try out our WiMax-backed plans. We are so confident with our service that we challenge you to try out our connection, risk-free,” said Menchi Orlina, head of the Consumer Broadband Business Group.

“Should you be unhappy with the connection within one month from installation, we’ll give you your money back, no questions asked.”

The service is initially available in selected areas in Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.