Safaricom Rolls Out VoLTE Countrywide for Crystal Clear Voice and Video Calls
Ever since 4G was introduced back in 2010, new devices that support the mobile network have entered in the market in order to meet consumer needs. Now if you’re wondering what 4G is, it stands for the fourth generation of mobile networks. This is high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than the 3G network.
In 2017, Safaricom had introduced 4G+ an evolution that doubles the speed of 4G. This would mean that users would get to enjoy speeds of up to 150mbps as opposed to 100mbps. In essence faster speeds of downloads and in less time.
Fast forward to June 2019, Safaricom has launched the voice and video calls over its 4G network, also known as Voice over LTE(VoLTE) and Video over LTE (ViLTE). It would mean that if you enjoy HD quality conversations on your mobile, then through the 4G VoLTE technology you get to use the internet to make calls, send SMS or browse the web altogether.
What’s good?
Speaking during the launch Sylvia Mulinge, the Chief Customer Officer at Safaricom said that, “The latest calling technology across the country will enable Kenyans to make voice and video calls over 4G. Beyond crystal clear voice calls, VoLTE further empowers our customers to better connect with families, friends and at work with high-quality video calling at no extra cost. Any Kenyan now has the freedom to make crystal clear calls and to make and receive clear video calls wherever they may be, on our 4G network.”
The 4G voice and video services are available countrywide to any Safaricom subscriber and at no additional cost compared to standard costs. All you need is a 4GVoLTE phone and a 4G enabled SIM card. If you have a Samsung, Nokia, Tecno, Itel or Huawei devices all you need is to update your software to enjoy the service.
On VoLTE calls can be distinguished by the “HD Calling” symbol which appears when a VoLTE call is in progress. Customers can also tell when they are on VoLTE by the “VoLTE” symbol in their status bars. Customers can switch between video and voice calls during a VoLTE call. Video calls will only be possible if both the caller’s and receiver’s device support the technology.
Besides, Safaricom has also introduced a range of affordable VoLTE capable devices to the market, including the Neon Ray retailing at KES 3,999 and the Neon Nova at KES 5,999. All devices are immediately available at all Safaricom shops, Safaricom dealers, and Masoko.
Here is a sample of devices that can support the 4G VoLTE and ViLTE services.
| VoLTE and ViLTE Capable devices | ||
| Neon Ray, Neon Nova, Neon Lite, Neon Plus | Samsung S10, S10E and S10+ | Samsung Note 8 and Note 9 |
| Samsung S9 and S9+ | Samsung S8 and S8+ | Samsung S7 and S7 Edge |
| Samsung A9 2018, A7 2018, A8+, A6+ | Samsung J8, J6+, J6, J4+, J4 | Samsung A2 Core, A10, A20, A30, A50, A70, A80 |
| Huawei Mate 10, Mate 10 Pro, Mate 20, Mate 20 Pro | Huawei Y5 lite, Y5 2019, Y6 2019, Y7 2019 | Huawei P30, P30 Lite, P 30 Pro, P 20, P 20 Lite, P 20 Pro |
| Nokia 3.1, Nokia 3.1 Pro, | Nokia 4.1, Nokia 4.1 Pro | Nokia 5.1, Nokia 5.1 Pro |
| Nokia 6.1, Nokia 6.1 pro | Nokia 7.1, Nokia 7.1 Pro | Itel A23s |
| Nokia 8.1 | Tecno Camon 11 | |
Hence you need to know about 4G VoLTE and ViLTE services
- 4G network is 4-5 times faster than the 3G mobile network and 6 times faster than 2G. Hence, it supports a higher data capacity carrying three times more data per call compared to 3G networks.
- Through this service, you get a richer calling experience with calls that are clearer and with High Definition voice quality. This also signifies high-quality video calls.
- VoLTE eliminates background noise, jitter and other distortions that are characteristics of previous network technologies like 3G and 2G
- In a video-centric world, the 4G ViLTE service meets the need for video calling which is driven by increasing data and smartphone usage.
- You get improved battery life.
- There is a quick call connection and instant switching between voice and video calls.
