Voice quality matters. As new technology emerges, a static-filled call conducted over analog lines is simply not good enough. If voices are not sharp and clear on the mobile connection, the consumer quickly starts to consider whether or not the provider can handle demand.
This demand is helping to drive the development RCS VoLTE, as it takes HD voice to the next level. According to the GSA’s ‘Status of the LTE (News - Alert) Ecosystem’ report, 132 manufacturers now have LTE-enabled user devices – a total of 1,371 devices. Just in the past year, 705 new LTE devices were launched, representing strong growth at 106 percent. As consumers increasingly clamor for crystal clear communications and fast connections, VoLTE demand is growing.
In a recent statement, Alan Hadden, president of the GSA (News - Alert), said, "We learned that over half of the latest LTE device announcements included support for 1800 MHz (Band 3), which is the most commonly used spectrum globally in LTE network deployments. Very soon 1800 MHz will have the largest device ecosystem. Support for LTE TDD (TD-LTE) devices has also significantly strengthened."
As these devices continue to emerge in the market, operators are responding by deploying the technology to support HD voice calls. Commercially launched VoLTE networks have popped up in at least 25 countries, all of which support Category 4 user devices. For the majority of operators already on board with RCS VoLTE, they plan to introduce HD voice as the first service enabled by this technology. Such support is likely to continue to drive demand for devices as the market continues to move toward performance innovation.
In a large way, this movement will help service providers set themselves apart from OTT services and standard voice carriers. As organizations launch services that require the use of voice and speech recognition technology, the availability of HD voice will be in high demand. Likewise, the enterprise is increasingly relying on access to this technology to support collaboration across the miles, driving video, voice and other communications across VoLTE networks.
Those able to meet the demands of the enterprise and the small business are likely to set themselves apart in the marketplace. Incumbent service providers are sure to compete fiercely, but can they invest the necessary means to take their networks to the level needed for HD voice and VoLTE? Too many are still only supporting 2G and 3G devices and technology.
As we gain access to improved operations, HD quality and RCS VoLTE, anything less will have a hard time competing in larger markets. If the support of HD voice service isn’t in the plans, the provider may have a hard time surviving.
Edited by Blaise McNamee