Ericsson has added new multi-device Wi-Fi calling functionality to its existing Wi-Fi calling offering, and expects the first commercial implementation from operators this year.
The new functionality will allow multiple of a user's devices to be able to make and receive cellular voice calls over Wi-Fi even if those devices are located at different access points a world apart.
The system supports simultaneous calls over several devices, as well as the ability to transfer a call in progress between devices.
Ericsson's Wi-Fi calling suite comprises product support in evolved packet core, IMS, user data management and OSS/BSS suites.
“While natively integrated Wi-Fi calling in smartphones has been commercially available for some time, both consumers and operators can benefit from extending this functionality to multiple devices,” Ericsson head of product area network functions Andres Olin said.
The company expects the the first commercial launches of Wi-Fi calling for multiple devices this year.
Recent research from the vendor's ConsumerLab division suggests that Wi-Fi calling can help both improve customer loyalty and drive an increase in the average frequency and duration of calls.
Customers adopting Wi-Fi calling are also less likely to use OTT services such as WhatsApp, helping operators protect their revenue streams.