The barrier-free communication feature is based on China Mobile’s enterprise standards for 5G New CaIIing and is a major upgrade to the native video call function of mobile phones. The feature uses intelligence technologies during video calls to recognize speech and then convert it into text in real-time. In this way, users can read a transcription of what the other user is saying in real-time. If the users speak different languages, it can translate what the other user is saying in real-time, truly breaking language barriers.

In conventional calls, users must understand the language the other user speaks. However, 5G New Calling integrated with advanced intelligence technologies breaks this barrier, so that users can easily communicate with each other even if they speak different languages. This feature is also helpful for users who are hard of hearing.

The barrier-free communication feature is another one of Hebei Mobile’s successful explorations following the application of 5G New Calling in vertical sectors. Hebei Mobile will continue to work with industry partners to develop more valuable services with 5G New Calling and lay a solid foundation for the commercial use of 5G New Calling.

These are the top 5 possibilities with respect to “5G New Call”:

1. “5G NEW CALL” – USES THE NATIVE DIALER OF THE SMARTPHONE

China Mobile claims that relative to voice and video calls over the Internet, 5G new calls are “more stable and more convenient.”. It has a stable call quality and uninterrupted incoming calls. It is also convenient because you can make video calls without downloading apps or applets. According to reports, 5G new calls use VoNR (Voice over New Radio) technology. This is an audio and video service solution under the 5G SA network architecture. Both video and data services are carried out on the 5G network.

In terms of sound quality, the VoNR sound transmission bandwidth extends from 50Hz-7000Hz to 20Hz-14000Hz. In terms of picture quality, the resolution can reach 720p, which is a level higher than 480P for VoLTE calls. Therefore, the effect of the picture and sound of the 5G video call will be higher than the current video call from social software such as WeChat.

Also, the sound quality, picture quality and ultra-low latency will become the competitive advantages of China Mobile and WeChat. At the same time, at present, if you want to make video calls, whether it is FaceTime, WeChat or other instant messaging tools are based on an app. However, the 5G new call is completely based on the smartphone’s native dialing keyboard and address book.

2. 5G NEW CALL BILLING

To promote the 5G new call, China Mobile has some technical incentives to attract users. During the trial commercial period, the billing for 5G video calls will be according to the length of time. Thus, there will be no traffic fee or additional fees before the call connects. Starting from May 1, the number of voice minutes in the 5G package will upgrade to the number of minutes that users have for 5G audio and video calls.

Chinese mobile phone terminal manufacturers will fully support 5G video calling services. From July this year, 5G terminals will support video calling (VoNR) after a special upgrade. Furthermore, subsequent 5G smartphones will support 5G new call (VoNR) by default. Well, this will not happen for Apple. For various reasons, Apple phones do not currently support this feature.

3. USER HABIT

In addition to the advantages, challenges still exist. Video calling is not a completely new business for operators. However, the latest development is making it more attractive.

In the 3G era, the cost threshold was high while the video calling technology, network, and terminals were immature. However, in the 4G era, major Internet companies compete for excellence, and each has a unique strategy to keep users on their apps as much as possible.

Now in the 5G era, with the development of various technologies, video calls seem to be opening the door to telecom operators again. However, how to reverse user habits will become a major problem for operators. Users are already used to using various applications for video calls.

4. COVERAGE & TERMINAL POPULARIZATION

Also, since 5G VoNR is still in the early stage of commercial development, there are still certain challenges in terms of network coverage and quality, terminal capabilities, and industrial chain.

First of all, for 5G VoNR to be commercially available on a large scale, broad coverage of the 5G SA network is required.

In terms of 5G network coverage, as of the end of 2021, China Mobile has cumulatively opened more than 730,000 5G base stations, including 200,000 700MHz 5G base stations, basically achieving continuous coverage in urban areas, counties, and towns. It also has its presence in some key rural areas, and key property premises. As of now, its services cover about 207 million 5G network customers.

In addition to network coverage, terminal popularization is also required. Although the new smartphones all support 5G, most do not really know about 5G packages. About 80% of smartphones sold in China support 5G. However, many do not subscribe to 5G packages.

5. “5G MESSAGE” IS SILENT – CAN “5G NEW CALL” BECOME A KILLER APP?

Although 5G message development is complete, the application of this technology is a little silent. China Telecom provides 5G messaging standard packages and explores multiple billing models. At the same time, it expands the coverage of 5G messaging terminals and strengthens industry cooperation. However, the three major operators in China now seek to upgrade 5G Messages to 5G New Call. The functions are more powerful, but the tariffs remain the same. This makes it conducive and it will ensure a smooth transition of traditional basic telecommunication services.

Furthermore, the basic “5G New Call” service is simpler and easier to understand. It can be understood as a high-definition video version of a traditional call.