Ericsson and SmarTone launch Wi-Fi calling for multi-device in Hong Kong
- Ericsson supports the Wi-Fi calling for multi-device launch for SmarTone – one of the world’s first operators to offer this functionality
- Consumers can make regular operator voice calls on devices that do not have a SIM card, such as tablets and personal computers
- Ericsson provided a complete end-to-end solution which is verified towards devices that support this functionality
Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and SmarTone in Hong Kong have deployed one of the world’s first Wi-Fi calling solutions with extended operator voice services for tablets, computers, smart watches and other personal devices.
SmarTone’s service enables consumers to pair up to five compatible personal devices that do not have a SIM-card to enable operator voice calls over Wi-Fi. The users do not need to install and maintain any additional apps on the devices. The devices can be located across different Wi-Fi access points, so if a consumer forgets his smartphone at home, he can pick up calls on his laptop instead. An ongoing call can be transferred from a device to the smartphone. Users can also be on several calls, i.e. on both the smartphone and on another device at the same time, using the same phone number.
To support Wi-Fi calling for multi-device, Ericsson has developed an adapted solution building on the existing Ericsson Wi-Fi calling solution. The solution is offered to operators as a complete end-to-end solution including system integration services. The solution includes Evolved Packet Core (EPC), IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), User Data Management (UDM) and OSS/BSS. The solution is verified towards device brands that support these capabilities.
Stephen Chau, Chief Technology Officer at SmarTone, says: “SmarTone has always focused on delivering outstanding experience to our customers. With the trend of more and more customers using multiple devices nowadays, we offer Wi-Fi calling for multi-device service to our customers, with support from Ericsson that delivered an innovative end-to-end solution. We believe the new capability to extend our voice service to devices without a SIM-card is adding genuine convenience to our customers.”
The Ericsson ConsumerLab report "Wi-Fi Calling Finds Its Voice"1, based on the first market launches in the US, has substantiated the popularity of basic Wi-Fi calling for smartphones. 4 out of 5 Wi-Fi calling users interviewed in the US are very satisfied with the service. A third of international smartphone users are aware of Wi-Fi calling, with 7 out of 10 finding it appealing. 77 percent will increase communication using Wi-Fi calling.
Paul Bergström, Head of Ericsson Hong Kong and Macau, says: “To help operators create a differentiated user experience is our prime objective. It is especially important in a highly competitive market like Hong Kong. Now we take another step to improve users’ voice service experience, and it is technological innovation like this that we are continuously driving, that is pushing businesses to new heights.”
1The report Wi-Fi Calling Finds Its Voice explores how the Wi-Fi calling service affects communication behavior among those already using it, and investigates the benefits that consumers consider the service offers. The report explores whether Wi-Fi calling changes consumers’ perceptions of providers offering such services, and also examines how it is viewed by frequent international travelers.
NOTES TO EDITORS
Remarks: Wi-Fi calling for multi-device currently supports Apple devices only.
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