Yes, 5G networks can support voice calls through two different technology known as EPS Fallback(EPSFB) or Voice over New Radio (VoNR). While fallback to LTE provides a bridge for voice services in areas where 5G's voice capabilities are still at early stages of the deployment, VoNR represents the future of voice calling in 5G networks, offering a more integrated and efficient use of the new radio and network capabilities.
Fallback to LTE: In this mechanism, when a user initiates a voice call on a 5G network, the network temporarily moves the user's connection from the 5G network to an existing 4G LTE network to facilitate the voice call using Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology. This process is known as "fallback." It ensures compatibility and continuous voice service availability even in areas where the 5G network may not fully support voice services yet. The fallback to LTE allows users to make and receive voice calls reliably using the well-established VoLTE infrastructure.
Voice over New Radio (VoNR): VoNR is the native voice calling technology designed specifically for 5G networks. It enables high-quality voice calls over the 5G network without needing to fallback to LTE. VoNR offers advantages such as lower latency, better sound quality, and the ability to simultaneously use voice services and high-speed data. For VoNR to work, both the network and the user's device must support 5G and the 5G core network infrastructure that facilitates VoNR calls.