What is voice over LTE (VoLTE)?
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a digital packet technology that uses 4G Long-Term Evolution networks to route voice traffic and transmit data. This voice service is standard for high-speed wireless communications in devices such as smartphones, data terminals, internet of things devices and wearables.
VoLTE is important for network operators, vendors, original equipment manufacturers and consumers. Since LTE is a data-only networking technology, VoLTE provides higher-quality calls, better service and the ability to use voice and data simultaneously.
How does VoLTE work?
VoLTE is based on the Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem framework. This enables the service to deliver multimedia as data flows using a common IP interface. This interface can use -- but doesn't depend on -- a legacy circuit-switched voice network.
For example, a user might initiate a call using the LTE network. If they wander outside an LTE coverage area, the call converts to the legacy network. This functionality is known as Single Radio Voice Call Continuity, where the LTE network simultaneously maintains two connections until the LTE signal disconnects.
Additionally, the recommended speech codec for VoLTE is Adaptive Multi-Rate Wideband, or HD Voice, which increases the audio frequency range for voice calls and improves sound quality.
Support for VoLTE
Most 4G wireless networks use LTE technology and thus support VoLTE. According to a May 2025 report from the Global Mobile Suppliers Association, 375 network operators worldwide have invested in VoLTE technology, and 320 of them have launched VoLTE networks.
Most cellular devices have VoLTE capabilities, including any iPhone after iPhone 6; all Google Pixel models; and Samsung Galaxy models after 2015. Users typically have the option to toggle VoLTE on and off through the device settings. To make a VoLTE call, all communicating devices must be compatible with it, have the capabilities enabled and be in a supported area.
Benefits of VoLTE
VoLTE offers service providers and device users the following benefits:
- Efficient spectrum use compared to traditional voice technology.
- Increased battery life compared to voice over IP.
- Superior audio quality and a clear calling experience.
- Reliable services and interoperability.
- Simultaneous calls and data usage visibility.
- Six-way conference calls.
- Deployment alongside multimedia services, such as video sharing and multimedia messaging.
- Simplified network management and developer accessibility.
- Freed-up network bandwidth due to a smaller packet size.
