VoLTE and VoWiFi: The rising standard of voice calls


LTE is more than just faster internet speed. It can improve voice calls with a
technology called Voice Over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice Over WiFi (VoWiFi).

3G technology was used some years ago to handle calls, and now with the
upgrade over VoLTE that uses 4G LTE network, calls have high-definition voice quality, making them clearer. The technology works best if both parties are on VoLTE.

Globe has already launched VoLTE, and users can expect high audio and video qualities and reduced possibilities of dropped calls. While some voice services continue to use 2G and 3G, VoLTE is expected to replace them in the future. Because VoLTE is faster than 2G and 3G, call setup time is shorter by one to five seconds. It also can use both voice and data, allowing users to multi-task and share from the web or apps while on a call is possible.

Earlier, we mentioned VoWiFi. Basically, this means you can make calls using WiFi. This becomes useful in areas where there is poor signal, preventing the inconvenience of going outside the house or hang around the window to get a better signal. Of course, you'd need a good WiFi connection to make the most out of this.

In case you're wondering if VoLTE or WiFi calls would eat your mobile data, rest assured, it won't. You would only need an LTE signal to make VoLTE calls and WiFi for WiFi calls. And no, there would be no additional charges or subscriptions when making VoLTE or WiFi calling. It works the same as regular calling, only powered by a newer technology that significantly improves the service.

Globe has enabled VoLTE in the National Capital Region (NCR), Rizal, Bulacan, and Cavite, and is introducing the technology progressively across the country.

As long as VoLTE is activated in an LTE network and a VoLTE-capable mobile phone, it can already be used anytime. Many modern smartphones are already supporting VoLTE.

However, VoLTE is not always on by default. You would need to enable them under Settings and then in Mobile Networks.

VoLTE-capable devices in the Philippines include the following:

Samsung Galaxy A Series
A30, A30s, A50, A50s, A51, A01, A71, A80, A7 (2018), A6 (2018), A10, A10s, A6+ (2018), A11, A21s, A31, A70

Samsung Galaxy S Series
S20 Ultra 5G, S20+, S20, S10+, S10, S10e, S9+, S9, S8+, S8

Samsung Galaxy Z Series
Z Flip, Z Fold, ZFold2

Samsung Galaxy Note Series
Note 10+, Note 10, Notel 10 Lite, Note 9, Note 20 and Note 20 ULTRA 5G

Huawei P Series
P40 Pro+, P40 Pro, P40, P30 Pro, P30, P30 Lite

Huawei Mate Series
Mate 30 Pro, Mate 30 Pro 5, Mate 30, Mate 20 Pro, Mate 20, Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro

Huawei Nova Series
Nova 7i, Nova 7 SE, Nova 5T, Nova 3I, Nova 7 5G

Huawei Y Series
Y9 Prime (2019), Y9 (2019), Y9S, Y7 Pro

Apple
iPhone 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X, XR, XR MAX, XS, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE

Nokia
Nokia 7.2

OPPO
Reno 4 and A53

Globe is continuously improving its network and upgrading to 4G LTE/5G for a better data experience. Since 3G is nearing its obsolescence, the company encourages customers to switch to a 4G LTE/5G-ready SIM for free by securing a Globe Store appointment via http://glbe.co/abs-queue or the GlobeOne app.

They may also avail of affordable 4G LTE smartphones through https://shop.globe.com.ph/ or get them as prepaid kits, a freebie with new postpaid lines, or for postpaid plan renewal.