MetroPCS: VoLTE-Capable Phones by End of 2012

When talking about consumer connectivity, 4G is the new “it” technology. Every cellular provider is trying to rush out there and make sure they have a 4G network that they can call their own. While 3G has not been around for nearly as long as some might think, it is already becoming a technology of the past. 4G LTE networks are popping up all over the world and various companies are trying to make sure they aren’t missing the train with a whole host of different technologies to take advantage of the stronger connections and faster speeds. MetroPCS is no different than the others and has announced it has come up with a new kind of VoIP technology, Voice over LTE (VoLTE). The first device that will use this technology is reported to be the LG Connect 4G Smartphone.

Of course, with all newer technologies problems have arisen, the biggest one for MetroPCS is that this VoLTE tech will not be made available on existing LG Connect models, but will be added to future models of this particular handset. MetroPCS has said that it will be rolling out a line of VoLTE compatible phones at the end of the year, so it won’t be long before its customers can take advantage of this new tech.

Robert Wondoloski, a spokesman for MetroPCS said that the company is looking to make VoLTE an attractive feature of his company, adding, “We are working on optimization of the service in the other markets, which will roll out this year and into first quarter of next year. VoLTE-capable handsets will be sold in these markets, and will become VoLTE-activated when the market is optimized and launched.”

United States cellular carriers are taking a long hard look at VoLTE as well. Verizon has an LTE network and AT&T says that it is planning to have phones that will work with the VoLTE tech early in 2013. Still, it appears that MetroPCS is the first company to use this tech this way and it is clearly thrilled to trumpet that fact.

Roger Linquist, chairman and CEO at MetroPCS, added, “Being the first operator globally to reach this industry first speaks volumes about our company’s innovative spirit and passion to achieve goals that we believe will have long-term benefit for our customers and for the company.”