VoLTE uses LTE network closing machines for producing speech communication called “IMS Profile for Voice and SMS” in order to provide integrated multimedia services, including voice, real-time video, text, file sharing, and audiovisual streaming. It can bring about clearer voice and video calling quality.

Because VoLTE service requires an established foundation of up to 90% 4G network coverage in addition to smartphone terminal coordination, its development speed has been slower than for regular LTE Internet access services.

Although 4G had a late start in Taiwan, it is rapidly developing. Taiwan Mobile and Far East already have over 96% 4G network coverage, while Chunghwa Telecom and Vibo Telecom have over 90%. In addition, most smartphones already support VoLTE and the VoLTE foundations have already been put into place.

Currently Taiwan Mobile is already confirmed to launch its VoLTE service in the first quarter of next year. Taiwan Mobile General Manager Zheng Jun-qing stated that Taiwan Mobile 4G network coverage has already reached 97%. In addition, brand name cellphones already support VoLTE service. Only pricing strategies and roaming charges still need to be negotiated. Next year during the first quarter Taiwan Mobile is expected to launch its service.

Far East announced that its VoLTE service will be launched in the first quarter of next year, and Vibo Telecom is also planning to launch VoLTE service in 2015. Meanwhile, Chunghwa Telcom is in the process of assessing the situation.

(TR/Phil Sweeney)