VoLTE: Better voice quality coming soon to a network near you

Although there was some hesitation in the market around voice over long-term evolution (VoLTE) just a year ago, the tides have now changed and the successes made by early adopters of the protocol have prompted analyst groups such as Infonetics Research to double their growth forecasts for its use between 2014 and 2016.

Voice is still the most critical service that mobile network operators (MNOs) run over their networks, and as such, there is little to no margin for error in terms of voice services. One of the benefits of VoLTE is that it allows voice to become just another app riding on the data network. VoLTE’s potential to bring faster and better voice calls and video chat to cellphone service is a benefit to consumers and, as a bonus, it should make voice-minutes billing a thing of the past.

Successful VoLTE deployments will bolster demand as major LTE operators look for more efficient ways to provide high-quality voice, video and other services over their networks. As one success rolls into another, competitive forces will drive even greater adoption.

However, to prepare for a successful launch, operations managers and network support engineers need to have a good understanding of VoLTE deployment. This means understanding the three main differences between VoLTE voice calls and calls over legacy mobile networks, and identifying effective live VoLTE troubleshooting techniques.

For a head start to understanding VoLTE deployment, check out our VoLTE Call Troubleshooting in Live LTE Network white paper. This reference document provides an overview of the protocol, detailed information on the high-level technical and practical aspects of VoLTE testing in LTE networks, and an in-depth look at a real-world VoLTE call in order to highlight key areas of focus for troubleshooting.

You can also attend our Live VoLTE Call Troubleshooting on-demand Webinar.