[Shenzhen, China, February 9, 2021] GlobalData and Huawei jointly released a white paper named Voice in 5G: The Long Transition. This white paper analyzes survey results collected from operators to depict a "current voice" regarding network conditions, to predict the trend of voice network development, and provide an insight into challenges faced by operators. The white paper proposes that building convergent networks is the key to addressing these challenges.
Voice Services: Pillar of Telecom Networks
Though Internet-based communications services are becoming increasingly popular, voice services born on telecom networks are still indispensable due to their high reliability and stability. According to the white paper, up to 85% of the surveyed operators agree that voice and SMS services are more important than or as important as data services in 5G.
VoLTE: Cornerstone for 5G Voice
According to the white paper, 66% of operators believe that it will take at least seven years to achieve full VoNR coverage. Prior to this, VoLTE will become the basic voice network in 5G because it supports HD voice services, 5G NSA networks, efficient utilization of spectrum resources, and smooth evolution to VoNR.
Convergent Voice Network: Must for Operators
Currently, most operators have to manage multiple voice networks, making O&M complicated and expensive. In addition, devices on 2G/3G networks are reaching the end of their life cycles and are subject to high failure rates. Operators cannot just patch over the issue with extended warranties. The white paper points out that operators can build convergent voice networks to simplify voice network architecture, improve resource utilization, and address the O&M and wasted investment issues caused by co-existence of different generations of networks. Besides, operators can offer new services, such as video calls, that are more reliable and stable than OTT services to further increase revenue.
Source: https://www.huawei.com/en/news/2021/2/globaldata-5g-voice