Ericsson has broadened the reach of its Wi-Fi calling solution to support connected devices such as tablets and laptops, as well as smartphones.
Operators are increasingly rolling out Wi-Fi calling in order to solve indoor coverage problems, with Swisscom the most recent.
Ericsson’s Wi-Fi calling offering comprises support in evolved packet core, IMS, user data management and OSS/BSS, as well as system integration. The proposition allows native dialing, rather than through an app.
Operators are able to enable features such as allowing simultaneous calls across several devices, as well as transferring a call from one device to another.
A consumer is able to use Wi-Fi calling regardless of what access point it is connected to.
Anders Olin, Head of Product Area Network Functions, Ericsson, said: “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.
“We are excited to launch Wi-Fi calling for multi-device, which is a clear example of how Ericsson’s technology leadership is helping to create differentiated user experiences.”
However, Ericsson has previously noted that there remains barriers to entry for Wi-Fi calling to work. It said in July that providers need to solve issues such as battery drain and poor quality of service.
Measuring consumer behaviour in the United States, it found seven out of 10 consumers found the service appealing. Seventy seven percent of consumers said they would use their smartphone more if they had the service.