Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) has added a new functionality, WiFi calling for multi-device, to its existing WiFi calling solution. The functionality is intended to enable operators to extend voice service coverage from smartphones to millions of WiFi-only devices such as tablets and personal computers.
With WiFi calling for multi-device, consumers can use devices that have only WiFi access capabilities to make regular voice calls over any WiFi network. The consumer's personal devices can be located at different WiFi access points anywhere in the world, while their smartphone can be on cellular access or any WiFi access point, and consumers can choose to pick up calls on any of the devices.
Calls can therefore be made in locations with poor cellular coverage, such as inside residential buildings. In addition, consumers are no longer forced to rely on over-the-top (OTT) voice services over WiFi access. WiFi calling for multi-device is integrated natively in devices that support the functionality.
The Ericsson offering comprises product support in Evolved Packet Core (EPC), IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), User Data Management (UDM) and OSS/BSS, as well as system integration services. The functionality is verified and tested end-to-end toward device brands that support the service.