Verizon Wireless' LTE subscribers will soon be able to make voice and video calls using their data connection, said the company in a recent statement. All that subscribers need is connection to Verizon's LTE network and an LTE device, and ensure that the person they are calling is also on the same network. The service, to be rolled out as the 'Advanced Calling 1.0' will be Verizon's first Voice Over LTE (VoLTE) service.
Verizon said that the Advanced Calling 1.0 will deliver HD Voice and Video Calling - which means that users will have a much clearer voice and video transmission and richer experience in communicating with people. It also means that a data plan is all that is needed to make calls, send messages, browse the internet, make online transactions and access a wide array of infotainment services.
According to Verizon, the service can be enabled via a simple software upgrade on the LTE device. The look and feel of the VoLTE call application mimics that of the conventional voice call - with similar icons and navigation, but has the added advantage of video calling option that can be turned on and off during a call. Verizon's Advanced Calling 1.0 marks the readiness of service providers to take on the challenge posed by OTT applications that in recent years have eaten rapidly into the traditional voice and SMS revenues of operators around the world.
