How can VoLTE help cellcos compete against OTT players?
VoLTE is the foundation but the new multi-device, multi-access network services with HD video and other multiple media services will keep MNOs relevant. Think of a smart TV with a WebRTC browser being used for HD video calling, even though the subscriber only has a 3G phone.
VoWi-Fi can help an operator overcome the challenges of VoIP calling via OTTs. Think of VoWi-Fi as operator-supported VoIP, with the additional benefit of customers their existing numbers while roaming, i.e. full reachability without associated roaming costs for both outgoing and incoming calls while they are on Wi-Fi.
How will the Asian voice market play out over the next five years?
Developing countries in Asia will see MNOs focusing on voice-centric plans over the next five years, but developed countries will see a migration from voice-centric, to data-centric, to data-only plans. MNOs in developed countries will be fully supporting VoLTE over data-centric plans, and will perhaps utilize MVNOs to support voice-centric plans for specific targeted demographics. OTTs will also continue making greater inroads for cross-border VoIP traffic across Asia, unless countered by the deployment of VoLTE, RCS and VoWiFi technologies by MNOs.
This article first appeared in Telecom Asia LTE Insights Supplement September 2014 issue