Wi-Fi Calling; Are the Carriers Listening?

October 7, 2015

By Ernest Worthman

October 7, 2015 — While this is still a “meh” technology here in the United States, other countries such as the U.K. have made it the standard and part of every wireless network. The same in Hong Kong, and other EMEA nations. In fact, a study by Strategy Analytics calls Wi-Fi calling a “must have” service for wireless carriers.

Why it is taking so long to get traction here is interesting. The standard infighting between the big four (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint) is one reason. Everybody wants to have their own technology. Another reason is the FCC rules regarding calling options for deaf and hard-of-hearing users. AT&T alleges that competitors Sprint and T-Mobile are offering a Wi-Fi calling service that doesn’t conform to accessibility rules relates to calls placed by people with hearing problems. Third, it is not marketed here with any real fervor.

Then there is the economic issue. If Wi-Fi calling is widely available, it takes business from the carriers, even if they are the ones who are implementing it. So what is the real reason…you ask me?

Finally, a recent report from ABI Research paints a rosy future for HotSpot 2.0. Funny part is that it talks about how “mobile operators are increasingly relying on Wi-Fi networks.” That is interesting; especially since the MNOs have looked at Wi-Fi as competition, for the most part.

But I guess when a juggernaut gets momentum, it is best to get on board or close up shop and go home. It seems the MNOs are finally getting on board, although slowly, notes ABI. One reason is that operators still lack the tools to generate revenue streams from this technology. “Hotspot 2.0 will evolve to allow operators higher flexibility for supporting different policies, which in turn, will encourage implementation of innovative business models and ultimately wider market adoption,” says Ahmed Ali, research analyst at ABI Research. Let’s hope they are right because Hotspot 2.0 offers seamless discovery and access, which can potentially enhance the user experience and attract more engagement. And that is what it is all about. Are you listening, Big Four?