What is VoLTE in smartphones and what does it do?
VoLTE, which stands for Voice over LTE, is a technology that allows voice calls to be made over a 4G LTE network instead of the traditional 2G or 3G networks. It is a significant advancement in telecommunications as it offers several benefits over traditional voice calls.
In traditional voice calls, the voice data is transmitted over circuit-switched networks, which are primarily designed for voice communication. On the other hand, VoLTE uses packet-switched networks, which are the same networks used for data transmission in 4G LTE. This means that voice calls are treated as data packets and transmitted over the same network that handles internet data.
One of the main advantages of VoLTE is the improved call quality. Since the voice data is transmitted as packets, it can be delivered in high definition (HD) quality, resulting in clearer and more natural-sounding calls. The higher bandwidth provided by 4G LTE also allows for a wider frequency range, which further enhances the call quality. Additionally, VoLTE supports wideband audio codecs, such as HD Voice and Enhanced Voice Services (EVS), which provide even better audio quality.
Another benefit of VoLTE is faster call setup times. Traditional voice calls require the network to switch from 4G LTE to 2G or 3G for voice transmission, which can cause delays in call setup. With VoLTE, the entire call setup process takes place over the 4G LTE network, eliminating the need for network switching and reducing call setup times. This means that users can connect to calls faster and experience shorter call connection delays.
VoLTE also offers improved call reliability. Since it uses the same network as data transmission, it benefits from the robustness and reliability of 4G LTE networks. This results in fewer dropped calls and improved call stability, even in areas with weak network coverage. Additionally, VoLTE supports seamless handover between LTE cells, allowing users to maintain their calls while moving between different LTE coverage areas.
In addition to these benefits, VoLTE also enables simultaneous voice and data transmission. In traditional voice calls, the data connection is paused or switched to a slower network during the call. However, with VoLTE, users can continue to use high-speed data services, such as browsing the internet or streaming media, while on a call. This is particularly useful for multitasking and accessing information during a call.
VoLTE also supports advanced calling features, such as video calling and multimedia sharing. Video calling allows users to make face-to-face video calls using the front-facing camera on their smartphones. Multimedia sharing enables users to share images, videos, and other media files during a call, enhancing the communication experience.
It is worth noting that for VoLTE to work, both the caller and the receiver need to have VoLTE-enabled smartphones and be connected to a 4G LTE network that supports VoLTE. If one of the parties does not have VoLTE capabilities or is connected to a network that does not support VoLTE, the call will fall back to the traditional voice network.
In conclusion, VoLTE is a technology that enables voice calls to be made over a 4G LTE network. It offers improved call quality, faster call setup times, enhanced call reliability, simultaneous voice and data transmission, and supports advanced calling features. As 4G LTE networks continue to expand globally, VoLTE is becoming increasingly prevalent, providing users with a superior voice calling experience on their smartphones.
