Understanding VoWiFi and VoLTE: What are they?

What is VoLTE VoWiFi

With the evolution of mobile networks, voice calls have moved beyond traditional cellular connections. And two key technologies, VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) and VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which might be something you might have seen a lot on the internet are now changing how we make voice calls. Let’s break down both technologies, how they work, and their impact on call quality and coverage.

Explained: VoLTE / VoLTE

What is VoWiFi?

VoWifi Calling

VoWiFi allows you to make voice calls over a Wi-Fi network rather than relying on the cellular network. This technology works by routing your voice call through your internet connection, which can be especially useful in areas with weak mobile coverage but strong Wi-Fi. What i mean is Vo Wifi is not a separate third thing, but something of specialized technology of WiFi itself.

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So when you’re in a building or location where cellular reception is poor, like something of an underground area, dense buildings, or rural zones— VoWiFi ensures you don’t miss networking. In essence, a stable Wi-Fi connection is enough to make and receive calls without interruptions. In addition, the VoWiFi is also available for NTC users (altho it depends whether the device supports or not)

The Benefits of VoWiFi

  1. Call Quality: In places where cellular signals are weak, VoWiFi leverages a strong Wi-Fi connection. Hence, a much much better call clarity.
  2. Costs: VoWiFi calls use less data compared to standard cellular calls.
  3. Coverage: This technology enhances voice calling where traditional mobile networks might not reach. As said previously, through VoWiFi it is possible to establish a call connection at any zone.

What is VoLTE?

VoLTE aka or Voice over LTE, is a technology that allows voice calls to be made over a 4G LTE network, instead of older 2G or 3G networks. The major benefit here is the use of a high-speed data network, which results in better voice quality and faster call setup times compared to traditional voice calls.

VoLTE uses data packets to transmit voice, rather than using circuit-switched voice channels, which means you can use high-definition voice calls along with the data services available on 4G. Then what is the difference between LTE and VoLTE? Well, LTE is a high-speed data network designed for internet use, while VoLTE is a specialized technology that enables voice calls over the LTE network.

The Advantages of VoLTE

  1. Voice Quality: VoLTE offers crystal-clear voice calls, often referred to as HD Voice, which significantly improves your call experience.
  2. Call Connection: VoLTE helps establish quicker calls compared to legacy networks.
  3. Data Use: Unlike older networks, VoLTE allows you to use mobile data (browsing, streaming) during calls without affecting the quality of your voice connection.

Ncell and NTC’s Use of VoLTE

In Nepal, both Ncell and NTC offer 4G services, but the frequency bands they use for VoLTE are pretty different..

Ncell has recently expanded its 4G service to include Band 1 (2100 MHz), a band previously used for 3G. Now, Ncell uses Band 3 (1800 MHz), Band 8 (900 MHz), and Band 1 (2100 MHz) for VoLTE calls, offering a combination of good coverage and high-speed data. Specifically, Ncell allocates 5 MHz of bandwidth from Band 1 for 4G (with 10 MHz still dedicated to 3G), 20 MHz from Band 3, and 5 MHz from Band 8, bringing a total of 30 MHz for its 4G network.

On the other hand, NTC (Nepal Telecom) uses Band 3 (1800 MHz) and Band 20 (800 MHz) for VoLTE. Band 3 offers fast speeds for urban areas, while Band 20 provides better coverage, particularly in rural and remote areas, thanks to its lower frequency. 

NTC officially unveils VoWiFi in Nepal

On its 21st anniversary, Nepal Telecom has officially unveiled VoWiFi service in Nepal. Now-supported devices can make use of WiFi Calling. Despite it being officially announced today, we have been using this service for the past two years already.

Conclusion

Both VoWiFi and VoLTE have transformed how we make voice calls. VoWiFi shines in areas with poor mobile signals but good Wi-Fi, while VoLTE provides high-definition voice calls over the fast 4G LTE network.