The buzz in the communications space has been largely focused on the benefits associated with voice over IP (VoIP). Companies and residents alike are drawn to the fact that they can nearly eliminate calling costs by sending voice and data across the same network. So popular is the practice that even mobile users are getting on board, embracing the cost-savings associated with mobile VoIP.
But is this the end-all to optimal communications? The market has picked up a newer, less obvious buzz with a focus on VoLTE. It doesn’t yet have the same momentum as VoIP, but it’s getting more attention as a viable contender in communications. In fact, Nokia (News - Alert) Smart Labs, according to a Nokia blog, recently rested VoLTE performance against VoIP and over-the-top (OTT) services. The results showed better quality and improved device battery life when RCS VoLTE was used.
This outcome could easily be challenged, however, as the test was conducted with ideal radio conditions in place and no network load. To get a better idea of performance in true environments, the testing team launched VoLTE under various non-Guaranteed Bit Rate (GBR) loads and best-effort services such as Internet browsing, email and file downloads. VoLTE appeared to be unaffected by all non-GBR traffic due to its Quality of Service (QoS) configuration, keeping voice quality at a level users demand.
The performance of OTT VoIP proved to be very different. When placed in medium load conditions, quality degraded 20 to 30 percent, producing voice quality of poor to very poor. When the network load was high, the voice quality was considered completely unacceptable. When in high non-GBR load, OTT VoIP also experienced a 100 percent call drop rate, compared with the zero drop rate for RCS VoLTE.
Battery consumption tests provided similar results. OTT VoIP services drained battery life at a rate 30 to 50 percent higher than VoLTE. For the busy consumer on the go, voice quality and battery life are the most important elements. If VoIP can’t deliver as expected, a service like RCS VoLTE will gain greater attention and make the platform the preferred solution in the near future.
The hold up, of course, is availability. VoIP is ready now whereas VoLTE is still in development and not all networks are ready to support it or even have it in their sights. Fortunately, it won’t take much to sway the winds of change as the provider with the better quality and support will quickly claim a greater market share, pushing others into following suit. In the end, it will mean better quality and performance for all.
Edited by Alisen Downey