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.
- Seamless Experience: Users can make and receive calls without noticing the switch from 5G to 4G, ensuring uninterrupted service.
- Widespread Support: Utilizes the mature and widely deployed VoLTE infrastructure, making it available in most areas where 5G is still being rolled out.
- Automatic Handover: The transition between 5G and 4G for voice calls is managed automatically by the network, requiring no user intervention.
- Limitations: While effective, fallback to LTE means users cannot use the full capabilities of 5G (such as ultra-low latency or simultaneous high-speed data and voice) during the call.
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.
- True 5G Voice: Delivers voice calls entirely over the 5G network, without relying on older 4G infrastructure.
- Lower Latency: Provides faster call setup and minimal delay, improving the experience for real-time conversations and interactive applications.
- Superior Audio Quality: Supports high-definition (HD) voice and advanced codecs for clearer, more natural sound.
- Simultaneous Voice and Data: Allows users to make voice calls and use high-speed 5G data at the same time, enabling features like video calls, file sharing, and app usage during calls.
- Network and Device Requirements: Both the mobile network and the user's device must support VoNR and be connected to a 5G core network for this feature to work.
- Deployment Status: VoNR is still being rolled out in many regions, so fallback to LTE may still be used where VoNR is not yet available.