Vodafone switches 4G data to new core network
- 08 July, 2015 14:01
Vodafone's new Ericsson-designed network is now being used for all 4G data by the telco's customers.
The telco announced the milestone in the rollout of its new IP network this morning.
"All Vodafone customers using 4G to download, upload and stream content on their devices are now connected to our new core network," the telco's CTO, Benoit Hanssen, said in a statement.
Vodafone last year unveiled the five-year plan to overhaul its core network, which includes the adoption of Network Functions Virtualization (NFV). The telco said that NFV would increase network agility and cut costs.
"Our new core network offers greater agility and flexibility, and for customers that means a better 4G experience," Hanssen said.
"Through our investment, we’ve created a strong, stable and reliable network, and we’re now building on that with the expansion of our new world-class core network."
With today's announcement, the ability of Vodafone customers to make calls using 4G has moved a step closer.
Vodafone late last year began trials of Voice over LTE — VoLTE. The telco said in February it had completed the trials and would conducting continue lab and field testing before making the technology available to customers later this year.
"VoLTE will allow customers to stay on the 4G network when taking or receiving voice calls, instead of switching to 3G," Hanssen said.
"VoLTE will deliver a superior call experience with reduced connection times, while customers continue to enjoy Vodafone’s high definition audio quality."
Vodafone customers will be able to make voice calls while continuing to use 4G-based data services, Hanssen said.
In March Vodafone finished its rollout of 4G carrier aggregation.
The telco has branded the LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation as '4G+'.
Telstra has said it will offer VoLTE to customers this year after activating across its network.