Verizon has been talking up its Voice over LTE (VoLTE) plans since 2011, but today the big red carrier finally deployed the feature on its network.
Verizon’s Advanced Calling 1.0 is now available on “select smartphones.” Currently that only includes the Samsung Galaxy S5 and LG G2, but Verizon plans to expand support to other devices through software updates.
Advanced Calling 1.0 includes HD Voice, which offers higher quality voice calls, 1-way or 2-way video calls, 6-way conference calls and simultaneous voice and LTE data. In order to take advantage of the calling features, you’ll need to conduct a call with another person that has an Advanced Calling 1.0-capable device.
Finally, Verizon says that any customer with a compatible phone and postpaid plan can get Advanced Calling 1.0. If you qualify, the feature can be added to your account for free.
Because we’ve been hearing about Verizon’s VoLTE and HD Voice plans for years now, it’s nice to see that the feature is finally rolling out. The bad news is that only two of its phones support the feature out of the gate. Here’s to hoping that Big Red expands that list quickly.
Via Verizon Wireless (1), (2)