Wi-Fi calling, a UMA (Unlicensed Mobile Access) service is seeing a number of on-going trials, demos and piloting by mobile operators across the globe. Building on the momentum in the Wi-Fi calling space, EE, UK's largest operator, has unveiled a few smartphone models that will support this feature on its 4G LTE network. The WiFi calling service which uses the phone's native dialer to establish voice connection via Wi-Fi and broadband connectivity, will be availabe via Microsoft Lumia 640 and 640 XL and Samsung's new flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.
EE’s WiFi calling service, says the company, promises high quality calls in more places and users will now be able to make calls in areas where the only connection is Wi-Fi, using their mobile devices and making and receiving calls as if they were on celllular connectivity.
This week also saw another UK Operator, Vodafone UK, announcing the launch of its Wi-Fi calling and Voice over 4G (VoLTE) service, scheduled to take place in summer this year. According to Vodafone, it has been testing both technologies in its network laboratory for several months and is now gearing to start VoLTE user trials ahead of its commercial launch. Vodafone is expected to disclose details of the service and compatible handsets during the launch.
In the US, Sprint and T-Mobile launched their Wi-Fi calling services last year ( Sprint Introduces Free Native WiFi Calling for International Travelers at No Additional Cost, T-Mobile Subscribers Get Own 'Cell Tower' via Personal CellSpot on Top of Free Texting On Gogo) and in Europe, Orange of France introduced Wi-Fi calling service on its OTT service, Libon (Orange's Libon Previews New ‘Reach Me’ WiFi Calling Feature).
Every year Samsung uses its flagship smartphone launches to introduce a host of innovative new features and functions and this year is no different. To get the very best out of the new handsets features, then users really do need to match it with the biggest and fastest UK network.”
Jeroen Hoencamp, Vodafone UK Chief Executive
Our Wi-Fi Calling service will ensure that our customers never miss a call. It is another important step towards our commitment to build the UK’s strongest converged network.
