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VoLTE

Voice calling over 4G and 5G

Updated yesterday

VoLTE is short for ‘Voice over LTE’, part of mobile high-speed wireless communication standards. That means voice calls will work on 4G and 5G networks.

From the end of 2025, the One NZ network used by Rocket Mobile will no longer support voice calls over 3G and 2G. Click here to find out more about the 3G shutdown.

VoLTE technology is a core part of the 5G standard, and voice calling will continue to be provided over 4G using VoLTE.

VoLTE Benefits

Faster Connections

Calls will connect faster, with less waiting time.

Better Coverage

4G coverage continues to expand in NZ, so you can connect even in rural areas.

Clearer Calls

Improved audio quality, with less background noise, and individual voices that stand out better when using speakerphone mode.

FAQs

What is VoLTE?

VoLTE is an abbreviation for Voice over LTE (4G). Rather than over the 3G/2G network, your device will stay on 4G rather than drop to 3G to make a voice call.

How to enable VoLTE:

1. Check whether you are within a 4G Calling/VoLTE coverage area, using our 4G coverage map. The One NZ network is continuing to roll out VoLTE, so if you are not within coverage yet, keep checking.

2. Check with your device manufacturer whether your phone supports VoLTE. For iPhone users, that includes models from iPhone 6 and newer. For Android users, that includes phones like Galaxy S9 and newer.

3. You need to ensure your firmware is updated. If needed, you can prompt this update yourself.

4. You need to ensure VoLTE is enabled in your device settings.

Note: if you still can’t connect to VoLTE, try turning your phone on and off again near the mobile cell site.

Where is VoLTE available?

Anywhere covered by 4G in our network coverage map.

Is my device compatible with VoLTE?

For iPhone users, that includes models from iPhone 6 and newer.

For Android users, that includes phones like Galaxy S9 and newer.

If you’re unsure, check with your device’s manufacturer.

What will a device software update look like on my smartphone?

The change to include VoLTE on your device will be part of the standard software update schedule for your device. Some Android devices may see a small change on their phones when in a VoLTE enabled area. The update will also enable new functions on your smartphone, allowing you to turn VoLTE on or off. On iPhones, VoLTE will be turned off by default. Customers will need to enable it manually on their device once their software upgrade has completed.


How do I setup VoLTE on my smartphone?

Apple (iOS)

– Go to Settings
– Tap Mobile
– Tap Mobile Data Options
– Enable 4G Voice and Data

Huawei

– Go to Settings
– Tap Wireless and Networks
– Tap Mobile Networks
– Enable VoLTE calls

Samsung

– Go to Settings
– Tap Connections
– Tap Mobile Networks
– Enable VoLTE calls

Please note: Samsung and Huawei smartphones will have VoLTE turned on by default when you are in a 4G network area. At such times, you will not find a VoLTE toggle in the settings menu of your smartphone.

How will I know if I am in a VoLTE area?

Android: You might see a VoLTE or HD symbol on the top of your device (next to the signal strength indicator) otherwise your device will stay on 4G during a call


iPhone: There is no VoLTE symbol so your phone will display 4G.

When I make a call over VoLTE, does this use my data plan?

When you make a VoLTE call, it will use your plan’s minutes, not your data.


Is roaming overseas supported by VoLTE?

VoLTE currently only works in NZ, and we’re working in the background to enable VoLTE while using the Rocket Mobile roaming add-on. We’ll update this page when that’s available.


Can I make a 111 emergency call using VoLTE?

Yes, you can call 111 in an emergency using VoLTE, which means voice calls will work on our 4G and 5G networks if you’re in a coverage area. However, if your phone is not VoLTE compatible, then you won’t be able to make any voice calls including to emergency services.



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