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Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) is a technology that allows users to make and receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of traditional cellular networks. It enables voice communication using Voice over IP (VoIP) protocols over a Wi-Fi connection, typically through a compatible device such as a smartphone or a VoIP-enabled handset.
Key aspects and features of Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi)
- Wi-Fi Network Utilization: VoWiFi utilizes Wi-Fi networks, such as home or office Wi-Fi networks or public Wi-Fi hotspots, to carry voice traffic. It allows users to leverage existing Wi-Fi infrastructure for voice calls, expanding coverage and offering an alternative to cellular networks.
- Seamless Handover: VoWiFi supports seamless handover between Wi-Fi and cellular networks. When a user moves out of Wi-Fi coverage, the call can seamlessly transition to a cellular network without interruption, ensuring a continuous conversation.
- Better Indoor Coverage: Wi-Fi networks can provide better coverage and stronger signals indoors compared to cellular networks. VoWiFi allows users to make and receive calls in areas where cellular coverage may be weak or unavailable, improving the overall voice call experience.
- Cost Savings: VoWiFi can offer cost savings for users, especially when making international or long-distance calls. By using Wi-Fi networks for voice calls, users can avoid incurring additional charges or using up cellular minutes from their service providers.
- Enhanced Voice Quality: Wi-Fi networks can support higher bandwidth and offer better audio quality compared to traditional cellular networks. VoWiFi leverages this capability to provide improved voice quality and clarity during calls.
- Integration with Other Services: VoWiFi can integrate with other services such as messaging, video calling, and multimedia sharing. Users can access these additional communication features alongside voice calls over Wi-Fi, enhancing their overall communication experience.
- Service Provider Support: VoWiFi requires support from mobile network operators or service providers. They need to enable the necessary infrastructure, provisioning, and integration to offer VoWiFi services to their subscribers. Users may need to have compatible devices and subscribe to a service plan that supports VoWiFi.
VoWiFi is increasingly adopted by mobile network operators and service providers as a complementary service to cellular voice calling. It offers enhanced coverage, cost savings, and improved voice quality, particularly in indoor environments. VoWiFi is becoming more prevalent with the widespread availability of Wi-Fi networks and the growing use of VoIP technologies for voice communication.
