Vodafone, Ericsson complete test for standalone 5G voice and data services
MUSCAT: Vodafone in Oman and Ericsson have carried out the first successful test call that will pave the way for the commercial introduction of 5G standalone voice and data services for Vodafone subscribers in Oman.
Oman’s first successful Voice over New Radio (VONR) proof of concept call over a standalone 5G network is part of Vodafone and Ericsson’s ongoing project to develop a highly efficient and reliable nationwide standalone network – allowing for highquality, seamless voice and data services.
Using Ericsson dual-mode 5G Core and Ericsson IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) technology, the proof of concept showed the potential of the mobile network to enhance speech quality across the country.
It also demonstrated the capability of Vodafone’s network to enable 5G-specific voice and communication services for both consumers and enterprises, using an experimental terminal, which will subsequently be replaced by commercial terminals made by Vodafone’s partners.
Unlike non-standalone 5G networks, standalone 5G networks do not build on existing 4G networks and technology, instead pairing 5G radios with a cloud-native 5G core network – allowing for flexibility and speed to meet current and future customer demands.
Stelios Savvides, Vodafone’s Technology Director in Oman, says: “As we continue to push boundaries as an innovation leader in Oman, this successful VONR proof of concept call is a milestone in our mission to enhance our 5G capabilities and deliver superior user experiences.”
Abdullah al Balushi, Country Manager of Ericsson Oman, says: “We are confident this latest VONR achievement will open doors to new business models and use cases and help Vodafone Oman deliver high-quality voice services and immersive experiences across the country. Through Vision 2040, Oman is embarking on a new phase of growth.”