In this issue of Signals Ahead we examine five different approaches for implementing Voice over LTE (VoLTE).  We look at the technical merits of each solution, who is advocating the various solutions, and why, as well as the probability that any given solution ever sees the light of day. 

Specific topics covered in the issue include the following:

Why all the fuss?  Much of the fuss surrounding the VoLTE issues has been over-blown, but that is not to suggest that the challenges associated with VoLTE do not merit the attention of the industry.  We discuss what would happen if events were allowed to unfold without divine intervention from above.

Pros and Cons.  Not surprisingly, all of the solutions have their pros and cons.  One could even argue that based on technical merits alone some of the "weakest" solutions actually have strengths that their more widely-accepted peers lack.  We delve into the technical merits of each solution, including some of their options and permutations (e.g., dual-receiver versus dual-transceiver, SR-VCC, etc), provide network diagrams, and explain the inter-workings between the various proposed solutions, the next-generation LTE network, and the legacy circuit switched network.

To the rescue.  Much work has taken place in the last few months which we believe will mitigate the problem and lessen the controversy.  That said, it isn't a slam dunk that everything will come together as currently planned.