Your Technical Guide to WiFi Calling in Ireland.
To turn the VoIP tide, operators must strive to maintain calling's best feature - simplicity.
Published 13/05/19
This is the first in a two-part series examining WiFi Calling and VoLTE in the Irish market, two technologies that fundamentally transform the voice calling experience.
You've succumbed to that painstaking process, right? During the middle of an important call, technology turns against you, terminating your voice session out of the blue. What follows is a frantic effort to dash for an area free from physical obstructions such as walls, which are hostile to signal propagation.
Believe it or not, the above is a common occurrence in Ireland, particularly amongst rural dwellers. You see, even as cellular networks have experienced a radical transformation in past decades, most of the technology advances address problems associated with the rapid ascension of data usage, not calling headaches.
Believe it or not, the above is a common occurrence in Ireland, particularly amongst rural dwellers. You see, even as cellular networks have experienced a radical transformation in past decades, most of the technology advances address problems associated with the rapid ascension of data usage, not calling headaches.
There is simply no communication method as ubiquitous as cellular voice.
And that's a problem, because voice traffic on mobile devices continues to grow, even as the adoption of free VoIP-based services offered by OTT players such as Facebook reaches an all-time high. But, services such as Whatsapp have their downfalls, primary of which being pervasiveness. There is simply no communication method as ubiquitous as cellular voice.
Unfortunately, however, Irish operators have failed to convey the advances introduced by WiFi Calling and VoLTE, leaving much of the population totally oblivious to what the technology is and how it works.
From an operator standpoint, it is easier to engage consumers with marketing material that focuses on network performance improvements in the realm of data speed and coverage than voice clarity enhancement.
Despite the lack of recognition, the mobile industry has been working feverishly to implement a number of solutions which can markedly improve the voice experience.
WiFi Calling and VoLTE are the two foremost recent innovations in the calling space, both sharing something in common: a move away from circuit-switched networking and a pivot towards modern, packet-switched networks.
Unfortunately, however, Irish operators have failed to convey the advances introduced by WiFi Calling and VoLTE, leaving much of the population totally oblivious to what the technology is and how it works.
From an operator standpoint, it is easier to engage consumers with marketing material that focuses on network performance improvements in the realm of data speed and coverage than voice clarity enhancement.
Despite the lack of recognition, the mobile industry has been working feverishly to implement a number of solutions which can markedly improve the voice experience.
WiFi Calling and VoLTE are the two foremost recent innovations in the calling space, both sharing something in common: a move away from circuit-switched networking and a pivot towards modern, packet-switched networks.
In the case of WiFi calling (also known as VoWiFi), voice packets are transferred via a WiFi network and its accompanying transport solution, eliminating the necessity for mobile network coverage. This can provide a tremendous audio quality and reliability improvement, and its minimal bandwidth requirements make it suitable for a nation deprived of high-speed broadband access.
Voice over LTE, on the other hand, leverages an operator's 4G network to transmit IP-based calls. This means there is an enhancement to call set-up times compared to those initiated on a 2G and 3G network and an ability to increase audio quality with the introduction of new codecs. Simultaneous usage of 4G spectrum for data and voice is also a notable breakthrough with VoLTE.
Voice over LTE, on the other hand, leverages an operator's 4G network to transmit IP-based calls. This means there is an enhancement to call set-up times compared to those initiated on a 2G and 3G network and an ability to increase audio quality with the introduction of new codecs. Simultaneous usage of 4G spectrum for data and voice is also a notable breakthrough with VoLTE.
A Technical Overview of WiFi Calling
WiFi Calling transforms the cellular experience by favouring WiFi Access Points (APs) over the Radio Access Network (RAN) for carrying critical services including SMS and, of course, voice calls. The magic lies in the fact that this technology redefines indoor cellular coverage without requiring the installation of any new equipment or shift in customer habit.
Historically, offloading of cellular traffic to WiFi networks has been limited to data, with its inability to support voice stemming from the fact that IP-based calling was not supported by cellular generations prior to 4G.
This limitation meant that voice and text services could not be accessed via the medium of WiFi networks, increasing customer dependency on the coverage footprint of low-bands such as 800 and 900MHz. However, in the absence of intensive network densification work, indoor coverage of such bands is inherently hindered.
It is important to note that every successive cellular generation has followed a trend of utilising higher frequency spectrum than the generation before it, enhancing capacity but increasing the macrosite density required to achieve a similar level of coverage. With mmWave 5G, there is an exorbitant shift up the spectrum, introducing unprecedented propagation challenges.
Historically, offloading of cellular traffic to WiFi networks has been limited to data, with its inability to support voice stemming from the fact that IP-based calling was not supported by cellular generations prior to 4G.
This limitation meant that voice and text services could not be accessed via the medium of WiFi networks, increasing customer dependency on the coverage footprint of low-bands such as 800 and 900MHz. However, in the absence of intensive network densification work, indoor coverage of such bands is inherently hindered.
It is important to note that every successive cellular generation has followed a trend of utilising higher frequency spectrum than the generation before it, enhancing capacity but increasing the macrosite density required to achieve a similar level of coverage. With mmWave 5G, there is an exorbitant shift up the spectrum, introducing unprecedented propagation challenges.
The above, combined with other factors such as the increased use of more advanced building insulation materials (particularly foil backed construction materials) creates a toxic environment for indoor signal penetration. This tricky circumstance for operators has been exacerbated by the fact that the percentage of time customers use their smartphones indoors continues to climb, with some figures higher than 70%.
By implementing WiFi Calling, operators can mitigate much of the challenges associated with macrosite signal attenuation, allowing a single access point to cater for customers of every cellular network. Initially, when a supported device is connected to one of these WiFi access points, a link is established over the Internet to the operator's core network.
This link to the core network transmits critical information provided by the device's SIM card including the closest Internet-reachable carrier gateway domain name that the device should seek. For example, in the case of Vodafone, this could be wifi-calling.vodafone.com.
Located within an operator's cloud architecture, devices can be dynamically directed to the closest evolved packet data gateway (ePDG), whose purpose concerns the termination of IPSec tunnels. From the perspective of an operator, IPSec is fundamental because it offers a way to guide customer traffic through untrusted WiFi networks and Internet connections.
By implementing WiFi Calling, operators can mitigate much of the challenges associated with macrosite signal attenuation, allowing a single access point to cater for customers of every cellular network. Initially, when a supported device is connected to one of these WiFi access points, a link is established over the Internet to the operator's core network.
This link to the core network transmits critical information provided by the device's SIM card including the closest Internet-reachable carrier gateway domain name that the device should seek. For example, in the case of Vodafone, this could be wifi-calling.vodafone.com.
Located within an operator's cloud architecture, devices can be dynamically directed to the closest evolved packet data gateway (ePDG), whose purpose concerns the termination of IPSec tunnels. From the perspective of an operator, IPSec is fundamental because it offers a way to guide customer traffic through untrusted WiFi networks and Internet connections.
As mentioned at the beginning, operators have commenced the process of transitioning all voice services from a circuit switched model to Voice over Internet Protocol (IP). This plays a major role in facilitating WiFi Calling because voice packets are handled by the core network, with a packet gateway (P-GW) acting as an anchor for the passage of packets to the IP Multimedia Server (IMS).
Being an incredibly scalable VoIP switch, the IMS server is important for future fluctuations in usage. This, along with end-to-end IP transport, paves the way for cleaner voice, a principal benefit of WiFi Calling. From the IMS server, allocation of data and text services to equipment within the core network is performed by the P-GW.
It is the IP-based approach with WiFi Calling that goes hand in hand with the advancements exhibited by VoLTE, an all-IP architecture for cellular calling. In fact, the relationship between WiFi Calling and VoLTE is such that deploying the former in the absence of the latter is significantly more complex and can lead to difficulties in the voice hand-off between WiFi and the RAN.
In effect, this means operators which support both WiFi Calling and VoLTE will be able to provide a superior calling experience to customers, especially during the shift between WiFi and 4G coverage footprints. Of course, there are methods to overcome the hand-off issues if an IMS server is present, but the differences in traffic between mobile operating systems such as Android and iOS adds complexity to this.
Being an incredibly scalable VoIP switch, the IMS server is important for future fluctuations in usage. This, along with end-to-end IP transport, paves the way for cleaner voice, a principal benefit of WiFi Calling. From the IMS server, allocation of data and text services to equipment within the core network is performed by the P-GW.
It is the IP-based approach with WiFi Calling that goes hand in hand with the advancements exhibited by VoLTE, an all-IP architecture for cellular calling. In fact, the relationship between WiFi Calling and VoLTE is such that deploying the former in the absence of the latter is significantly more complex and can lead to difficulties in the voice hand-off between WiFi and the RAN.
In effect, this means operators which support both WiFi Calling and VoLTE will be able to provide a superior calling experience to customers, especially during the shift between WiFi and 4G coverage footprints. Of course, there are methods to overcome the hand-off issues if an IMS server is present, but the differences in traffic between mobile operating systems such as Android and iOS adds complexity to this.
Notably, there are two forms of handover with WiFi Calling: inter-AP handover and inter-network handover. The latter aspect is the one discussed, where a voice call is moved from WiFi to the cellular network (WLAN). When a device is entering or leaving the building in which an access point is present, a decision is made to dynamically switch the call in the event that the active route fails.
Swift decision-making on behalf of the device and the operator's network is necessary to prevent dropped calls, based on data about the route quality of the WiFi and cellular network. Other implementations that can enhance the inter-network handover experience include extending an access point's WiFi coverage further outdoors to reduce the rate at which signal quality degrades.
Swift decision-making on behalf of the device and the operator's network is necessary to prevent dropped calls, based on data about the route quality of the WiFi and cellular network. Other implementations that can enhance the inter-network handover experience include extending an access point's WiFi coverage further outdoors to reduce the rate at which signal quality degrades.
You see, operators have traditionally pursued a mentality that any network element outside their realm of control is untrusted, and therefore, unsuitable for facilitating the operation of critical cellular services including voice.
And the earlier detail, relating to mobile operating system differences, represents a momentous inflection point in the wider telecoms industry, with operators relinquishing control of the customer experience in a frantic effort to deliver new innovations. In fact, this foregoing of once end-to-end control applies not merely to WiFi Calling but also to other recent developments such as the utilisation of unlicensed spectrum and spectrum sharing.
You see, operators have traditionally pursued a mentality that any network element outside their realm of control is untrusted, and therefore, unsuitable for facilitating the operation of critical cellular services including voice. Of course, the integrity of WiFi networks cannot be comprehensively verified by an operator, requiring new breakthroughs to enable automation of the connection process between an access point and the ePDG.
You see, operators have traditionally pursued a mentality that any network element outside their realm of control is untrusted, and therefore, unsuitable for facilitating the operation of critical cellular services including voice. Of course, the integrity of WiFi networks cannot be comprehensively verified by an operator, requiring new breakthroughs to enable automation of the connection process between an access point and the ePDG.
As a protocol designed to cater for rapid, but secure, WiFi discovery and connection, Passpoint solves the hard-coded SSID dilemma by querying an access point before establishing a connection. In just one step, Passpoint identifies the list of operators whose subscribers have the power to authenticate the inspection of codes by a SIM. Importantly, this automates the entire WiFi Calling process.
That level of automation extends to the inherent security mechanisms which ensure VoIP traffic in the form of WiFi Calling is highly secure and private. Again, this is particularly important given the dynamic nature of WiFi, which sees devices connecting to a myriad of different access points, dotted across private premises, cafes and even airports.
From the device side, voice traffic is encrypted within the IPSec tunnel, with mutual authentication acting as an assurance that the operator is legitimate. At the operator level, protection of its core network infrastructure is guaranteed by the validation of SIM credentials, and the IPSec tunnel prevents the insertion of malicious packets.
Stepping away from security and towards Quality of Service (QoS), it should be immediately apparent that the competency of your WiFi connection and its backhaul will have an impact on the voice experience. Our ears are truly amazing, and their sensitivity to millisecond outages, echos and delays during a call dictates the level to which WiFi Calling needs to perform.
That level of automation extends to the inherent security mechanisms which ensure VoIP traffic in the form of WiFi Calling is highly secure and private. Again, this is particularly important given the dynamic nature of WiFi, which sees devices connecting to a myriad of different access points, dotted across private premises, cafes and even airports.
From the device side, voice traffic is encrypted within the IPSec tunnel, with mutual authentication acting as an assurance that the operator is legitimate. At the operator level, protection of its core network infrastructure is guaranteed by the validation of SIM credentials, and the IPSec tunnel prevents the insertion of malicious packets.
Stepping away from security and towards Quality of Service (QoS), it should be immediately apparent that the competency of your WiFi connection and its backhaul will have an impact on the voice experience. Our ears are truly amazing, and their sensitivity to millisecond outages, echos and delays during a call dictates the level to which WiFi Calling needs to perform.
There are three layers of QoS with WiFi Calling, each of which has a direct relationship with one another. If one layer is sub-standard, a degradation in voice quality is inevitable. Over the air QoS is the most intricate layer, at the mercy of an exponential number of variables, and the layer in which consumers bear the greatest responsibility.
The increased proliferation of mesh wireless systems developed by companies such as Google and Eero comes as WiFi Calling introduces an unprecedented level of network complexity in the home.
Concerning the link between a WiFi access point and device, voice quality is dependent on an optimal wireless network architecture, which requires seamless roaming, an environment free from interference and diversity of bands. To the average consumer, everything I've just listed is double Dutch.
And that's a major problem because when WiFi Calling doesn't work as we expect it to, fingers are instantly pointed in the direction of the operator, who wields little control over the QoS. Moving forward, information campaigns designed to educate consumers about the basics of wireless network design will be incredibly important.
Fortunately, to the above plight, manufacturers have an answer: mesh WiFi. The increased proliferation of mesh wireless systems developed by companies such as Google and Eero comes as WiFi Calling introduces an unprecedented level of network complexity in the home.
And that's a major problem because when WiFi Calling doesn't work as we expect it to, fingers are instantly pointed in the direction of the operator, who wields little control over the QoS. Moving forward, information campaigns designed to educate consumers about the basics of wireless network design will be incredibly important.
Fortunately, to the above plight, manufacturers have an answer: mesh WiFi. The increased proliferation of mesh wireless systems developed by companies such as Google and Eero comes as WiFi Calling introduces an unprecedented level of network complexity in the home.
Namely, a high density of access points with advanced roaming technologies such as IEEE 802.1X, IEEE 802.11k and 802.11v is a meaningful breakthrough, and one which ensures continuous, overlapping coverage bolsters network reliability. These roaming technologies serve to radically improve the inter-AP handover experience explained earlier.
Meanwhile, dropped frames and jitter, both of which hinder voice quality, can be mitigated with prioritisation of voice traffic thanks to Wireless Multi-Media (WMM).
Over the air QoS factors must be considered by consumers when optimising their home network for WiFi Calling, and equally, by enterprises hoping to enhance voice quality experience indoors. The harsh reality is that many of today's WiFi networks are not suited for VoIP traffic, and while bandwidth requirements (12Kbps to-72 Kbps) are not likely to be an issue, other factors such as packet loss are sure to frustrate some.
Wired LAN and the Internet represent the next layers in the QoS chain. For an enterprise, implementation of an IP PBX is a good measure to serve WiFi Calling traffic, affording priority to voice packets. It is also necessary to consider the benefits of modern LAN switches and routers for WiFi Calling, tagging voice traffic (with 802.1d at level 6) to maintain a stable experience.
From the wired LAN, voice traffic traverses the depths of the Internet to reach the operator's ePDG gateway, as explained earlier. Optimal QoS can be achieved here by ensuring there is sufficient bandwidth with the access link, reducing the potential for the occurrence of congestion.
Meanwhile, dropped frames and jitter, both of which hinder voice quality, can be mitigated with prioritisation of voice traffic thanks to Wireless Multi-Media (WMM).
Over the air QoS factors must be considered by consumers when optimising their home network for WiFi Calling, and equally, by enterprises hoping to enhance voice quality experience indoors. The harsh reality is that many of today's WiFi networks are not suited for VoIP traffic, and while bandwidth requirements (12Kbps to-72 Kbps) are not likely to be an issue, other factors such as packet loss are sure to frustrate some.
Wired LAN and the Internet represent the next layers in the QoS chain. For an enterprise, implementation of an IP PBX is a good measure to serve WiFi Calling traffic, affording priority to voice packets. It is also necessary to consider the benefits of modern LAN switches and routers for WiFi Calling, tagging voice traffic (with 802.1d at level 6) to maintain a stable experience.
From the wired LAN, voice traffic traverses the depths of the Internet to reach the operator's ePDG gateway, as explained earlier. Optimal QoS can be achieved here by ensuring there is sufficient bandwidth with the access link, reducing the potential for the occurrence of congestion.
Ireland needs WiFi Calling
You already know this, but it's worth reiterating it in the context of WiFi Calling: Ireland is a country of soaring hills, where villages sit in the depths of valleys and low-density housing dots the landscape in a one-off fashion. Statistics point to the fact that there are just 27 people per km² in rural areas and, incredibly, 3% of the Irish population lives in 28% of the total land area.
This population distribution and topography characteristics prohibit the ubiquitous deployment of 4G and 5G bands in Ireland. In fact, an investigation conducted by ComReg found there are extortionate deployment costs associated with achieving high levels of geographic coverage on this island. For example, reaching 99.0% 3Mbps geographic coverage is 5.1 times more expensive than 99.0% 3Mbps population coverage.
As of today, Ireland's operators have achieved 4G population coverage above 98%, translating to approximately 75% geographic coverage. This has been achieved by utilisation of low-band 800MHz for a low-density site grid, reducing costs at the expense of capacity. However, to our dismay, data shows that expanding coverage beyond the current level is not likely to be commercially viable for operators.
This population distribution and topography characteristics prohibit the ubiquitous deployment of 4G and 5G bands in Ireland. In fact, an investigation conducted by ComReg found there are extortionate deployment costs associated with achieving high levels of geographic coverage on this island. For example, reaching 99.0% 3Mbps geographic coverage is 5.1 times more expensive than 99.0% 3Mbps population coverage.
As of today, Ireland's operators have achieved 4G population coverage above 98%, translating to approximately 75% geographic coverage. This has been achieved by utilisation of low-band 800MHz for a low-density site grid, reducing costs at the expense of capacity. However, to our dismay, data shows that expanding coverage beyond the current level is not likely to be commercially viable for operators.
The imminent liberalisation of the 700MHz band will act as an extension to the coverage footprint of low-band 4G and 5G NR in rural areas and deep indoors, and it will be of particular benefit to VoLTE, which necessitates blanket coverage for an optimal experience.
For this reason, implementation of a geographic coverage and performance obligation with 700MHz licenses is critically important.
Mid-bands such as 3.6GHz and high-bands such as 26GHz, 28GHz and 42GHz will be milestones in the 5G NR journey because they catapult wireless into an elusive multi-gigabit era, but cannot replace the propagation advantages exhibited by low-band spectrum. This is why a capacity-driven 5G strategy will exacerbate the digital divide in Ireland, not reverse it.
On a separate tangent, it is paramount to understand the proportionate relationship between fibre and 5G, which I examine here. In short, the high-density macrosite approach with mmWave 5G NR will require deep fibre penetration at the edge, acting as a scalable transport solution.
For this reason, implementation of a geographic coverage and performance obligation with 700MHz licenses is critically important.
Mid-bands such as 3.6GHz and high-bands such as 26GHz, 28GHz and 42GHz will be milestones in the 5G NR journey because they catapult wireless into an elusive multi-gigabit era, but cannot replace the propagation advantages exhibited by low-band spectrum. This is why a capacity-driven 5G strategy will exacerbate the digital divide in Ireland, not reverse it.
On a separate tangent, it is paramount to understand the proportionate relationship between fibre and 5G, which I examine here. In short, the high-density macrosite approach with mmWave 5G NR will require deep fibre penetration at the edge, acting as a scalable transport solution.
This fundamental requirement for fibre access networks is also underpinned by the fact that WiFi networks, similar to cellular nodes, are increasingly dependent on multi-gigabit fixed backhaul to support growing capacity demands. With advancements such as XGS-PON, fibre is the vine that will allow its wireless fruit to flourish.
It is my intention that the above paints a picture of a connectivity ecosystem that is intrinsically bound together by its individual parts. Fibre penetration will impact the level to which we can exploit WiFi 6, and thereby, features such as WiFi Calling. It will also influence the deployment of 5G NR across a diverse array of spectrum bands, and shape the continued enhancement of 4G with bands such as 700MHz, from which VoLTE stands to benefit.
It is my intention that the above paints a picture of a connectivity ecosystem that is intrinsically bound together by its individual parts. Fibre penetration will impact the level to which we can exploit WiFi 6, and thereby, features such as WiFi Calling. It will also influence the deployment of 5G NR across a diverse array of spectrum bands, and shape the continued enhancement of 4G with bands such as 700MHz, from which VoLTE stands to benefit.
Vodafone: A Voice Utopia
Big Red is the only operator in Ireland to support both WiFi Calling and VoLTE, giving it a profound lead in the domain of voice. With the most pervasive coverage footprint for 4G on this island, Vodafone's VoLTE benefits from blanket availability of the 800 (rural) and 1800MHz (urban/suburban) bands.
This means that even when Vodafone's competitors launch a VoLTE service, they will be intrinsically limited by a smaller geographic coverage footprint, negatively impacting QoS. Importantly, supporting VoLTE also allows Vodafone to transition more of its legacy services and spectrum to 4G and 5G, streamlining its network architecture.
This means that even when Vodafone's competitors launch a VoLTE service, they will be intrinsically limited by a smaller geographic coverage footprint, negatively impacting QoS. Importantly, supporting VoLTE also allows Vodafone to transition more of its legacy services and spectrum to 4G and 5G, streamlining its network architecture.
From my perspective, technologies that wield the potential to fundamentally enhance the network experience should not be limited to a subset of customers.
It is also worth noting that Vodafone already provides the best cellular voice experience in Ireland, a product of its longstanding partnership with Ericsson. Remember, Vodafone's RAN and core network is composed entirely of solutions offered by the Swedish telecoms vendor, providing an unassailable advantage in the realm of handover between sites and the core network, especially when devices are moving.
Admittedly, however, Vodafone was not first to market with WiFi Calling in Ireland, and device support (or lack thereof) is an obvious indication of this. Customers must own an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy device to avail of WiFi Calling, and incredulously, support for the feature is limited to a select array of bill play.
From my perspective, technologies that wield the potential to fundamentally enhance the network experience should not be limited to a subset of customers. Take notes, Vodafone. Without comprehensive support, adoption of an end-to-end VoIP architecture will progress more slowly, at the expense of both Vodafone and its customers.
From my perspective, technologies that wield the potential to fundamentally enhance the network experience should not be limited to a subset of customers. Take notes, Vodafone. Without comprehensive support, adoption of an end-to-end VoIP architecture will progress more slowly, at the expense of both Vodafone and its customers.
Device Support for WiFi Calling on Vodafone:
Plan Support for WiFi Calling on Vodafone:
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 6/6 Plus
- iPhone 6s/6s Plus
- iPhone 7/7 Plus
- iPhone 8/8 Plus/X
- iPhone Xs/Xs Max/Xr
- Samsung S8/S8+
- Samsung S9/S9+
- Samsung S10/S10e/S10+
- Samsung Note 8/Note 9
Plan Support for WiFi Calling on Vodafone:
- Red Connect Essentials
- Red Connect Essentials II
- Red Connect
- Red Connect Super
- Red Standard
- Red Complete
- Red Max
Eir: A WiFi Calling Pioneer, Still Excelling
As a pioneer of WiFi Calling in Ireland, eir's competitive edge has yet to be eclipsed by another operator. Launched in Q1 2017, eir set about implementing a solution that would rid Ireland of voice blackspots, and its WiFi Calling feature excelled in executing that very goal.
Over one million calls are placed each quarter by eir's customers via a WiFi network, according to the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce. In my eyes, that's an astonishing figure when put into the context of decades-long stagnation in the realm of cellular voice. And the reason for healthy adoption is twofold: unparalleled device support and a lacklustre network.
The first point is one that eir would be thrilled to tout, but the latter not so much. Virtually every recent model of the iPhone (5C and newer) is supported by eir for WiFi Calling, and the same is true for devices offered by Samsung (Galaxy S6 and newer) and Huawei (P10 and newer).
Like Vodafone, eir limits WiFi Calling to a subset of customers, with a comprehensive list of plans listed below. Notably, there is greater diversity than there is with Big Red, a positive for eir's customers. This device and plan support is such that almost every smartphone sold by the operator will be able to place calls on a WiFi network today, not tomorrow. It's the future, and eir has arrived there before any other operator in Ireland.
Over one million calls are placed each quarter by eir's customers via a WiFi network, according to the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce. In my eyes, that's an astonishing figure when put into the context of decades-long stagnation in the realm of cellular voice. And the reason for healthy adoption is twofold: unparalleled device support and a lacklustre network.
The first point is one that eir would be thrilled to tout, but the latter not so much. Virtually every recent model of the iPhone (5C and newer) is supported by eir for WiFi Calling, and the same is true for devices offered by Samsung (Galaxy S6 and newer) and Huawei (P10 and newer).
Like Vodafone, eir limits WiFi Calling to a subset of customers, with a comprehensive list of plans listed below. Notably, there is greater diversity than there is with Big Red, a positive for eir's customers. This device and plan support is such that almost every smartphone sold by the operator will be able to place calls on a WiFi network today, not tomorrow. It's the future, and eir has arrived there before any other operator in Ireland.
What doesn't liken the future, however, is eir's network. I won't beat around the bush, it falls far behind Three and Vodafone in terms of network performance, across every category. That shouldn't surprise anyone remotely familiar with the mobile market in Ireland - it's a direct consequence of chronic under-investment, exacerbated by a scant spectrum portfolio.
Frankly, when we strip away the exuberant marketing material, it becomes immediately apparent that the poor quality of eir's network is the very factor that has compelled its customers to adopt WiFi Calling.
The availability of WiFi Calling on eir's network fits in flawlessly with the above description of its network. Frankly, when we strip away the exuberant marketing material, it becomes immediately apparent that the poor quality of eir's network is the very factor that has compelled its customers to adopt WiFi Calling.
That same level of compulsion does not apply to the customers of Vodafone or even Three. As the shift to VoLTE becomes a necessary (and overdue) pivot for operators, eir's position is weak. If you're an eir customer, time spent on 4G will be less than that boasted by competing operators, and the experience will likely be inferior.
That same level of compulsion does not apply to the customers of Vodafone or even Three. As the shift to VoLTE becomes a necessary (and overdue) pivot for operators, eir's position is weak. If you're an eir customer, time spent on 4G will be less than that boasted by competing operators, and the experience will likely be inferior.
You see, eir's 4G spectrum portfolio prohibits it from providing capacity on a par with Vodafone, falling even further behind when Three joins the equation. The operator's carrier aggregated network is limited in coverage and offers just 25MHz of spectrum, spread across the 1800MHz (15MHz) and 800MHz (10MHz) bands. For reference, Vodafone's 4G network currently tops out at 30MHz, trumped by Three with a potential to leverage 45MHz of spectrum.
While the above may sound trivial, especially given eir's promises of renewed network investment over the coming two years, it represents a stark performance divide. Three's 4G spectrum assets allow it to provide almost twice the capacity as that of eir. Even with a dense site grid, which eir does not have, its network will under-perform for services such as VoLTE.
While the above may sound trivial, especially given eir's promises of renewed network investment over the coming two years, it represents a stark performance divide. Three's 4G spectrum assets allow it to provide almost twice the capacity as that of eir. Even with a dense site grid, which eir does not have, its network will under-perform for services such as VoLTE.
Plan Support for WiFi Calling on eir:
- eir Mobile 100 1GB + Roaming SIM Only
- eir Mobile 400 10GB + Roaming SIM Only
- eir Mobile Unlimited 15GB + Roaming SIM Only
- eir Mobile Unlimited 30GB + Roaming SIM Only
- eir Mobile 100 1GB + Roaming
- eir Mobile 400 10GB + Roaming
- eir Mobile Unlimited 15GB + Roaming
- eir Mobile Unlimited 30GB + Roaming
- eir Mobile 400 4GB + Roaming SIM Only
- eir Mobile Unlimited 10GB + Roaming SIM Only
- SIM Only Lite
- SIM Only Regular 4G
- SIM Only Super 4G
- SIM Only Super Deluxe 4G
- Smartphone Lite
- Smartphone Regular 4G
- Smartphone Super 4G
- Smartphone Super Deluxe 4G
- SIMO Regular Extra 10GB 4G
- SIMO Super Deluxe Extra 30GB 4G
- SIMO Super Extra 15GB 4G
- SIM Only Regular Extra 4G
- SIM Only Super Deluxe Extra 4G
- SIM Only Super Extra 4G
- Smartphone Regular Extra 4G
- Smartphone Super Deluxe Extra 4G
- Smartphone Super Extra 4G
- All eir mobile Small Business tariff plans
- eir mobile connect 30 day
- eir mobile complete 30 day
- eir mobile essential
- eir mobile connect
- eir mobile complete
Three: A VoIP Desert
Those steering the ship at Three have failed to acknowledge the tremendous benefits posed by WiFi Calling and VoLTE, even as its competitors gain traction in the space. Perplexing it is; Three proclaims itself to be the network built for data, leaving one to assume that VoIP-based calling would be a perfect match.
But, unfortunately, launching these network features is not a priority for Three, making it the only operator in Ireland entirely dependent on a circuit-switched cellular network in 2019. The conditions that have contributed to this delay are hardly confounding, and they can be traced back to the bumpy, to put things lightly, consolidation of the legacy O2 and Three networks.
As I alluded to at the opening, Three claims its network is built for data, and guess what, it is. That categorisation goes beyond the fact that Three's network facilitates more data traffic than that of eir and Vodafone combined, and touches areas such as network capacity. It is the latter point where Three is a market leader in Ireland.
But, unfortunately, launching these network features is not a priority for Three, making it the only operator in Ireland entirely dependent on a circuit-switched cellular network in 2019. The conditions that have contributed to this delay are hardly confounding, and they can be traced back to the bumpy, to put things lightly, consolidation of the legacy O2 and Three networks.
As I alluded to at the opening, Three claims its network is built for data, and guess what, it is. That categorisation goes beyond the fact that Three's network facilitates more data traffic than that of eir and Vodafone combined, and touches areas such as network capacity. It is the latter point where Three is a market leader in Ireland.
No other network features the same pervasiveness of carrier aggregated 4G coverage as Three does, providing customers with an unrivalled experience where it is available. The aforementioned spectrum allocation aids this situation, and it gives Three an unending lead until ComReg's next spectrum auction for bands such as 700MHz.
Let's not forget, the messy amalgamation of two distinct networks has left Three with a mish-mash of vendors spread across different cellular generations.
However, when you step outside the cell edge of Three's carrier aggregated network, fundamental cracks appear. These are the ones that pose the greatest challenge in its quest to enable VoLTE. Let's not forget, the messy amalgamation of two distinct networks has left Three with a mish-mash of vendors spread across different cellular generations.
The operator's 4G deployment was spearheaded by Samsung, but industry sources point to the fact that Huawei will be Three's designated partner for 5G. Aside from being controversial (and a political football), the involvement of Huawei adds greater complexity because those same sources believe the Chinese behemoth will be afforded the opportunity to rip out Samsung's equipment and replace it with its own.
In the absence of VoLTE, voice calling is supported by Three's 2G and 3G network, where Nokia sees its equipment play a role. Of course, Three's multi-vendor network architecture is a nightmare for the swift deployment of new technologies.
If VoLTE is launched by Three, the hand-off experience between 4G and 2/3G will be hindered by the existence of multiple core networks.
The operator's 4G deployment was spearheaded by Samsung, but industry sources point to the fact that Huawei will be Three's designated partner for 5G. Aside from being controversial (and a political football), the involvement of Huawei adds greater complexity because those same sources believe the Chinese behemoth will be afforded the opportunity to rip out Samsung's equipment and replace it with its own.
In the absence of VoLTE, voice calling is supported by Three's 2G and 3G network, where Nokia sees its equipment play a role. Of course, Three's multi-vendor network architecture is a nightmare for the swift deployment of new technologies.
If VoLTE is launched by Three, the hand-off experience between 4G and 2/3G will be hindered by the existence of multiple core networks.
Conclusion: A Step-Change requires Education
WiFi Calling and VoLTE represent more than an attempt by the telecoms industry to claw back control from OTT services. When implemented in an optimal manner, these technologies fundamentally transform the cellular voice experience by making it more accessible to more people than ever before and enhancing the experience for those that already enjoy it.
Data is the future of voice, and to be more specific, a model based on end-to-end IP. This is a logical transition for operators, allowing them to create new revenue streams by selling value-added services and reducing the operational costs associated with a circuit-switched network.
There are challenges in facilitating the transition, and these will thwart consumer adoption if they are ignored. Remember, consumers will not adopt new technology if it is not perceived to be cheaper or better.
Data is the future of voice, and to be more specific, a model based on end-to-end IP. This is a logical transition for operators, allowing them to create new revenue streams by selling value-added services and reducing the operational costs associated with a circuit-switched network.
There are challenges in facilitating the transition, and these will thwart consumer adoption if they are ignored. Remember, consumers will not adopt new technology if it is not perceived to be cheaper or better.
If operators wreck one of the foundational pillars of cellular voice, simplicity, an exodus of users is inevitable.
WiFi Calling can provide a cosmic leap in voice performance, but the experience is impacted by many variables including WiFi network architecture in the home. The same is true in the case of VoLTE, a technology which requires ubiquitous low-band 4G availability to function properly.
In the absence of operator control over a rapidly increasing number of circumstances, consumer education is key. And that's precisely where the industry needs to go, and where it is fumbling as we speak.
Consumers will adopt WiFi Calling because it shatters the glass ceiling of cellular signal availability, but operators need to convey this very message in a simplistic manner to consumers. There are other benefits, too, including free international calling while abroad and seamless hand-off between devices such as smartphones and tablets.
If operators wreck one of the foundational pillars of cellular voice, simplicity, an exodus of users is inevitable. That's what tainted MMS, and should be the lesson to guide the deployment of WiFi Calling and VoLTE in Ireland.
In the absence of operator control over a rapidly increasing number of circumstances, consumer education is key. And that's precisely where the industry needs to go, and where it is fumbling as we speak.
Consumers will adopt WiFi Calling because it shatters the glass ceiling of cellular signal availability, but operators need to convey this very message in a simplistic manner to consumers. There are other benefits, too, including free international calling while abroad and seamless hand-off between devices such as smartphones and tablets.
If operators wreck one of the foundational pillars of cellular voice, simplicity, an exodus of users is inevitable. That's what tainted MMS, and should be the lesson to guide the deployment of WiFi Calling and VoLTE in Ireland.
The next article in this two-part series will examine VoLTE: what the technology is, how it works, and its place in the market as we prepare to witness a flurry of 5G NR deployments focused on enhancing network capacity.
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Understanding VoLTE: The Voice of TomorrowA generational leap in cellular voice requires a leap of faith.
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