This article provides an overview of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology, including what it is, key benefits, compatible devices, how it works, and frequently asked questions about using VoLTE for voice calls.

What is Voice over LTE (VoLTE)?

VoLTE is an abbreviation for Voice over LTE. Rather than using the 3G and 2G frequencies, your phone will stay on 4G and 5G frequencies for voice calls and video calls.

You can find more information about VoLTE here , and our coverage map is updated regularly here.

What do you get with VoLTE?

With VoLTE, you get reduced background noise on voice calls and quicker call connection times.

Why should I get VoLTE?

The key benefits of VoLTE or '4G Calling' include:

• Reduced background noise on voice calls
• Quicker call connection times

You should know

• For a list of VoLTE compatible phones and modems, please visit the VoLTE page.
• All B525 Rural Broadband modems supplied from August 19th 2019 are VoLTE compatible. Existing B525 modems will receive a firmware upgrade over the network by September 2019.
• Phones not yet compatible include Samsung Galaxy A8, Galaxy J6, Vodafone N9, N10 and V10. Smartphones and modems older than these will also not be VoLTE compatible.
• When moving from a 2G/3G area to a 4G area during a VoLTE call, the call will drop and need to be re-dialed in the 4G area.
• When moving from a 4G area to a 2G/3G area during a VoLTE call, the call will transfer seamlessly.
• Video calling is compatible with VoLTE between 4G areas, but may not work between 3G and 4G areas.
• VoLTE setup steps are provided for Apple, Huawei and Samsung devices.
• You can check if you are in a VoLTE area by looking for the VoLTE/HD icon on Android or just the 4G icon on iPhones.
• VoLTE calling uses your plan's included minutes, not data.
• VoLTE is not supported while roaming in New Zealand or overseas.
• Only VoLTE compatible devices can make voice calls in 4G-only areas without 2G/3G coverage.
• Emergency 111 calls can be made over VoLTE in 4G/5G coverage areas if the device is VoLTE compatible

• If you're calling from a 4G network area to another 4G network area, video calling will continue to work with VoLTE.

  If you are calling from a 3G network area to a 4G network area or vice versa using VoLTE, your call may only connect via audio or not connect at all.

  If you feel the person you are calling isn't in a 4G network area, but you’d still like to make a video call, you can simply switch off VoLTE on your smartphone and then make the call. 

How does it work?

With VoLTE, voice calls stay on the 4G/5G data network rather than falling back to 2G/3G for the voice component. This provides higher voice quality and faster call setup.

How will I know if I am in a VoLTE area?

Android: You might see a VoLTE or HD symbol on the top of your device (next to the signal strength indicator) otherwise your device will stay on 4G during a call

iPhone: iOS does not use a VoLTE symbol so your iPhone will simply display 4G.

The coverage map can be used to find these locations. Note that the coverage map is a predictive tool.

https://one.nz/network/coverage/

How to get it?

VoLTE is a network technology that is enabled through device software updates. Compatible devices will get VoLTE enabled automatically through their regular software update process.

How do I set up VoLTE on my smartphone?