Alcatel-Lucent and D2 Technologies are reporting successful tests of voice over LTE with software that supports rich communications services over IP networks. By pairing Alcatel-Lucent’s VoLTE solution with D2’s client software, the companies are trying to offer service providers a way to quickly commercialize services like video chat on LTE networks.
Carriers are looking to VoLTE as a way to combat the over-the-top threat posed by voice-over-IP providers like Skype. VoLTE moves voice calls to IP networks, meaning that voice calls are digital and can potentially integrate Web-based services.
At the same time VoIP companies are adding video to their offering and making inroads with enterprise customers looking for reliable alternatives to expensive video conferencing software. Combining VoLTE with Web-based RCS could be an important step for operators that want to offer customers the best of both worlds.
“Alcatel-Lucent is poised to push the needle forward for VoLTE and RCS adoption worldwide,” said Doug Makishima, COO of D2 Technologies. “By emphasizing native support for RCS and VoLTE, we can ensure that mobile phone users are able to take full advantage of an optimized and richer communications experience that’s built into the phone.” D2 Technologies said it has successfully shown how IP-based communications like RCS, VoLTE (IR.92), VoWiFi, and IR.94 video calling can be seamlessly combined with traditional GSM CS and text message communications.
Carriers have supported RCS as a standard for application interoperability, and now VoLTE interoperability intiatives are emerging. Verizon Communications and AT&T are working with the GSMA to enable VoLTE interoperability between their two networks.
The Mobile Minute is sponsored by Juniper Networks.
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