The GSMA and Samsung Electronics have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing voice call quality and connectivity on 4G and 5G networks. The collaboration focuses on enabling Voice over LTE (VoLTE) by default on Samsung devices running Android 15 or later operating systems.
Enhancing Voice Quality and Connectivity
This initiative is designed to support a more seamless global rollout of VoLTE technology. By making VoLTE the default setting, the partnership seeks to ensure that essential telephony services, such as emergency calling and roaming, remain functional as mobile operators worldwide increasingly transition away from legacy 2G and 3G networks to utilize the higher capacity and quality offered by 4G and 5G.
Leveraging GSMA Platforms and Standards
The partnership leverages the GSMA’s Network Settings Exchange (NSX) and Interoperability Testing services. Samsung is working to facilitate consistent and reliable voice services across diverse operators and geographical regions.
New Samsung devices, including the recently introduced Galaxy S25 series and all subsequent models running Android 15 or above, will be equipped to access high-quality VoLTE where supported. This will be achieved by utilizing operator-defined IMS settings distributed via the NSX platform or, when necessary, defaulting to GSMA Profile #4.
The Role of GSMA Network Settings Exchange (NSX)
The GSMA NSX serves as a centralized platform designed to standardize and streamline the distribution of mobile network settings from operators to device manufacturers globally. It allows mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) to upload, manage, and distribute their latest network configurations. Through the NSX, operators can share IMS-specific settings directly with device manufacturers, aiming to ensure seamless service functionality and interoperability. Device manufacturers can then pre-configure devices based on the shared network settings provided by operators on the hub.
Streamlining Interoperability Testing
Further supporting this effort is the GSMA’s Interoperability Testing service, which provides tools for validating operator-device compatibility for VoLTE before commercial deployment. Recognizing the significant scale of testing required to enable VoLTE on Samsung devices globally, Samsung has aligned its testing protocols with standard GSMA VoLTE testing procedures in addition to enabling VoLTE by default.
Collaborative Industry Effort
The collaboration between the GSMA and Samsung is intended to assist operators in assessing VoLTE readiness through standard tests, highlighting the role of industry-wide cooperation in this transition. The GSMA is also offering Interoperability Testing services to support operators with pre-launch VoLTE testing in conjunction with Samsung.