What is VoLTE for IoT?

Quick summary

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) enables IP-based voice communication on 4G and 5G networks for IoT devices, replacing outdated 2G/3G circuit-switched voice. It offers HD voice clarity, faster call setup, and improved battery life, supporting real-time voice services essential for many IoT applications.

How VoLTE works

As voice communication continues to play a vital role in many IoT and enterprise applications, VoLTE (Voice over LTE) has become a necessary evolution in mobile network technology. Traditional voice services ran on 2G and 3G networks (which are currently being sunset) using circuit-switched technology, which is not compatible with newer, IP-based 4G and 5G networks. As mobile networks evolve, voice services must transition to the same all-IP infrastructure. VoLTE makes this possible – it is entirely IP-based, offering HD voice clarity, fast call setup, and longer device battery life.

With global VoLTE support available across IoT connectivity providers, organizations can now leverage real-time voice services within 4G/5G ecosystems - critical for mission-driven industries where voice remains a core function.

Key Capabilities of VoLTE:

• HD-quality voice calls

• Sub-second call setup

• Prioritized traffic for mission-critical apps

• Optimized energy use for connected devices

Why VoLTE matters for IoT

IoT is no longer just about data. Many connected applications require voice – clear, reliable, and instant. Whether for safety, diagnostics, or operations, VoLTE allows IoT devices to integrate high-quality voice without the need for older telecom infrastructure.

Key benefits of VoLTE for IoT

Industry use cases for VoLTE-enabled IoT

Healthcare & telecare

• Remote patient check-ins via voice

• Emergency call buttons with direct hospital routing

• Telehealth monitoring with voice feedback loops

Logistics & fleet management

• Two-way voice communication with drivers

• Real-time issue reporting from connected vehicles

• Voice-integrated tracking terminals for mobile staff

Security & surveillance

• Voice-enabled alarm systems

• Security guards equipped with connected voice panic buttons

• Smart intercoms integrated with LTE video feeds

Industrial IoT & smart manufacturing

• Technician voice access to machine diagnostics

• Remote maintenance coordination via wearable VoLTE devices

• Voice alerts triggered by sensor thresholds

Smart cities & utilities

• VoLTE callboxes in public areas or transit systems

• Voice-enabled meters and control panels

• City-wide voice communication for maintenance crews

Getting started with VoLTE

To take advantage of VoLTE in your IoT deployment, consider the following steps:

1. Choose compatible hardware: Ensure your IoT devices are VoLTE-capable and properly configured.

2. Select a supported SIM: Use SIM cards that support VoLTE and are provisioned for global or regional use.

3. Work with experts: Collaborate with your connectivity provider to test, configure, and deploy VoLTE services effectively.

4. Prioritize voice-critical applications: Focus your VoLTE rollout on use cases where reliable voice communication is essential, such as healthcare, emergency systems, field operations, or remote services.

VoLTE is a game-changer for IoT deployments that require voice, delivering high quality, fast performance, and network reliability. Whether you operate in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, or smart infrastructure, VoLTE empowers your devices with the clarity and reliability modern operations demand.

How to get VoLTE

VoLTE is available from Pelion as part of our wide range of IoT connectivity solutions and services, allowing for seamless integration of VoLTE into your IoT applications and deployments.

Want to learn more about VoLTE? Speak to our team to discuss your specific IoT requirements and VoLTE use case.