What is VoLTE, How Does It Work, and How Can It Save You Money?
VoLTE, or Voice over LTE, is becoming increasingly popular on smartphones as it enhances call quality. Learn how it works, its benefits, and how it can save you money.
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What Does VoLTE Mean?
VoLTE is a feature concerning voice calls present on almost all mobile phones today. When activated, VoLTE allows for making and receiving high-definition voice calls. Many Mobile operators offer their users the option to make calls using the 4G network instead of the traditional 3G.
VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE, which translates literally to "voice over LTE network". Remember: LTE, in turn, stands for Long Term Evolution and signifies a middle ground between the third and fourth generations of mobile networks, positioning itself between the 3G and 4G standards in terms of network speed.
How Does a VoLTE Call Work?
A VoLTE call is a type of call over the internet that automatically resorts to the 4G network to establish higher-quality voice connections. The technology behind VoLTE involves several steps:
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Call Initialization: When a user initiates a call on their VoLTE-enabled device, the phone connects to the LTE network instead of the 2G or 3G network.
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Conversion to IP Packets: The user's voice is converted into IP packets, which are then transmitted over the LTE network.
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Transmission of IP Packets: The packets containing the voice are sent through the LTE network to the call recipient.
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Reception and Decoding: The recipient's device receives the IP packets and decodes them, reconstructing the original voice of the caller.
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Call Completion: Once the voice is successfully transmitted and received, the call is completed, and the parties can communicate with each other.
Remember: VoLTE calls utilize the internet, so we can say that the voice is sent via internet protocol, hence we can also refer to it as VoIP technology.
Key Benefits of VoLTE
VoLTE calls offer multiple advantages to users, including:
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Superior Audio Quality: VoLTE calls provide clearer and sharper audio quality compared to traditional calls.
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Fast Connection: Thanks to the LTE network, VoLTE calls are established more quickly than traditional calls, reducing waiting times and the number of rings before connecting.
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Simultaneous Navigation: Since calls take place over LTE technology without the need to switch to the 3G network, smartphones can continue browsing on the 4G or 5G network even during calls.
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Battery Savings: VoLTE technology consumes less battery compared to calls over 2G or 3G networks, thus extending the lifespan of your smartphone's battery.
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Better Coverage: Utilizing the LTE network, VoLTE call coverage is often better than 2G and 3G networks, as you can verify through our mobile coverage map.
Can I Make VoLTE Calls While Abroad?
Yes, VoLTE roaming can be used abroad as long as your smartphone is compatible with this technology and the foreign operator's network also offers this service. However, be mindful of data usage abroad: since this technology uses the
Remember: When calling from abroad to Switzerland, it's important to dial the Swiss area code before the recipient's phone number.
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Checking VoLTE Compatibility with my smartphone:
You can verify if your phone supports VoLTE by contacting your carrier or visiting the VoLTE compatibility page on individual operator websites.
Alternatively, you can check compatibility within your smartphone settings. Under "SIM Card" or "Mobile Networks," look for the option to enable VoLTE calling. If this option isn't available, it means either your carrier doesn't support this calling technology or your device isn't certified for VoLTE.
Enabling VoLTE on iPhone:
To enable VoLTE calls on an iPhone, follow these steps: Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Enable LTE > Voice & Data.
Remember: iPhones with iOS10 or later allow the use of VoLTE calls.
Enabling VoLTE on Android:
To enable VoLTE calls on an Android device, navigate to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > VoLTE Calls.
Following these steps should enable you to make VoLTE calls and enjoy all its benefits.
FAQ VoLTE
What Does VoLTE Mean?
VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE, a voice communication technology that allows voice calls to be transmitted over the LTE data network instead of the traditional GSM or CDMA networks. This enables superior audio quality and the use of additional services like video calls and advanced messaging.
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Can I Use VoLTE with a Prepaid SIM?
Yes, VoLTE can generally be used with a Swiss prepaid SIM, provided that your mobile operator supports this technology and your device is compatible.
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How Much Does a VoLTE Call Cost?
The cost of VoLTE calls depends on your carrier's tariff plan. In many cases, VoLTE calls are included in standard tariff plans without additional charges, but it's always advisable to check with your carrier for specific details.
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What Are the Main Disadvantages of VoLTE?
The main disadvantages of VoLTE include:
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Dependency on LTE Coverage: VoLTE may not be available in areas with limited LTE coverage.
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Additional Roaming Costs: Using VoLTE abroad may result in higher mobile data consumption and additional costs if you don't have a mobile plan with included roaming.
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Device Compatibility: Not all devices are compatible with VoLTE, so you may need to update your device to use this technology.
VoLTE vs. WiFi Calling: Which Is Better?
The choice between VoLTE and WiFi Calling depends on personal preferences and user needs. Both technologies offer unique advantages. VoLTE provides better audio quality and faster connections, while WiFi Calling allows calls to be made over a Wi-Fi connection when cellular network coverage is limited. The best decision depends on network coverage availability and Wi-Fi connection quality in your area.
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How Much Data Is Used for VoLTE Calls?
The data consumption for a VoLTE call depends on the call duration and audio quality used. However, typically, data consumption for a VoLTE call is minimal, with an average consumption of about 1 MB per minute for high-quality calls.
Learn and Save with VoLTE on internet-offer.ch
Now that you're informed about VoLTE usage, you can start using VoLTE. However, if you want to save on your calls and subscription, continue browsing to our subscription comparison page:
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Author: Lapo Zarina
First published: May 2024
Sources: Wikipedia page on VoLTE and cited official operator websites | WIX and proprietary images