Computerworld

Calling Nokia Networks... Vodafone NZ to conduct first Kiwi Voice over LTE call

“Together with Nokia Networks, we have made real progress with tests and hope to launch a commercial VoLTE service soon."

Vodafone New Zealand has selected Nokia Networks and its Voice over LTE (VoLTE) solution to conduct the first VoLTE call on a cloud-based IMS network.

With this, the telco aims to showcase its readiness to offer high-definition (HD) voice calls for its customers across the country.

As a next-generation technology, Vodafone says VoLTE has multiple benefits for operators and customers alike, including HD voice quality, faster call set-up times with voice continuity, and optimised performance under load.

The overall data consumption and signalling load is also lower compared to over-the-top voice applications.

“As New Zealand’s 4G leader, we’re committed to investing in our 4G network for the benefit of customers – VoLTE is the next evolution,” says Tony Baird, Technology Director, Vodafone New Zealand.

“Together with Nokia Networks, we have made real progress with tests and hope to launch a commercial VoLTE service soon.”

Occupying New Zealand’s largest 4G network, reaching over 70 percent of the country’s population, Vodafone is the largest mobile operator in the country and the first to launch LTE services in New Zealand.

Last year, Vodafone also launched its commercial 700 MHz LTE network, one of the first Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT) 700 MHz networks in the world.

“Nokia Networks is proud to partner with Vodafone New Zealand to bring the first VoLTE experience to consumers in New Zealand,” adds Ray Owen, Head of Australia and New Zealand, Nokia Networks.

“This is an important milestone - not only in New Zealand - but across the Asia Pacific region. It enables Vodafone’s customers to be among the first subscribers in the world to experience VoLTE.”