VoLTE call for IoT is said to target expansion of voice services to IoT devices, with AT&T, Ericsson and Qualcomm claiming the platform is commercial ready.
AT&T, Ericsson and Qualcomm Technologies claimed the first successful voice-over-LTE call for the internet of things using existing mobile network infrastructure bolstered with new software and hardware supporting LTE-M technology.
The companies said the demonstration used Qualcomm’s MDM9206 LTE modem; Ericsson’s LTE Radio Access Network, IP Multimedia Subsystem, Evolved Packet Core and User Data Management network infrastructure and software; and with the participation of AT&T. The demo is said to have shown the technology was robust enough for commercial deployment.
The technology is said to allow the expansion of voice services to IoT devices, which the companies noted could expand service reach to security alarm panels, remote first aid kits, wearables, digital locks, disposable security garments and other IoT applications and services.
“This means that IoT devices using VoLTE on Cat-M1/LTE-M will allow enterprises to make voice calls, extending the capabilities of operators’ mobile networks by tapping into the extensive and innovative IoT device ecosystem,” the firms explained.
“The ability to support voice services is an important feature to many verticals within our IoT portfolio, including our customers in the alarm and security industry, automotive, wearables and connected health markets,” added Chris Penrose, president of IoT solutions at AT&T.
IoT deployment models have been a hot topic at this year’s Mobile World Congress event, with a number of companies announcing products designed to ease the roll out of platforms set to serve the potentially lucrative base.
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