Q. With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?

  1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
  2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  • 1 only
  • 2 only
  • Both 1 and 2
  • Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2

LTE
  • LTE stands for Long Term Evolution. It is a model for high-speed data communication systems, also called 4G. This means you can utilize internet service at the 4G speed.
  • It has the capacity to provide a download speed of 100 Mbps and an uploading speed of 50 Mbps.
  • It does not provide good quality voice calls while using the data services.
VoLTE
  • Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE) is a standard for high-speed wireless communication for mobile phones and data terminals.
  • Under the earlier LTE, the infrastructure of telecom players only allows transmission of data while voice calls are routed to their older 2G or 3G networks. Thus under LTE, one cannot access the 4G data services while on a call.
  • On the other hand, VoLTE, a technology update to the LTE protocol, allows voice calls to be ‘packaged’ and carried through LTE networks. This would mean 4G data accessibility even during calls.
Vo5G (Voice over 5G)
  • It is also known as Voice over New Radio (VoNR).
  • This standard allows voice calls over 5G networks instead of the current standard that uses 4G.
  • In simple terms, Vo5G takes all the improvements of 5G – speed, capacity, responsiveness – and applies them squarely to voice.
  • It aims to have all that infrastructure and interoperability ready well in advance.
  • To use Vo5G, you need three things: a phone that supports Vo5G, a carrier that offers Vo5G, and a 5G signal in your area.
  • VoNR vs. VoLTE: The Advancements
    • Call Quality: VoNR offers superior call quality with advanced audio codecs, thanks to 5G’s higher bandwidth.
    • Connection Time: Reduced network latency in 5G ensures faster call connections with VoNR.
    • Reliability: VoNR promises better call continuity with lower packet loss, potentially reducing voice cut-outs.
    • Network Transition: VoNR aims to eliminate call drops experienced during the transition from 5G to 4G for VoLTE calls.