Verizon Wireless confirmed today that its technologists have completed a successful test of voice calls over its 4G LTE network, known as VoLTE.
The company made several calls on Tuesday morning at Verizon headquarers in Basking Ridge, NJ over the 4G network.
The first call, which lasted 33 seconds, happened at 9:54am Eastern between two Verizon technology executives who were using LG Revolution 4G smartphones. They made several more voice calls that morning, and also browsed the Web and accessed other data services while participating in voice calls.
"Today is another proof point that the LTE ecosystem is alive, healthy and thriving," Verizon chief technology officer Tony Melone said in a statement. "VoLTE will quickly become the global standard for delivering voice over LTE networks."
Verizon launched its 4G network in December, but it currently only supports data. Verizon has said that at least until late 2012, LTE phones will make all of their voice calls on Verizon's 3G network, jumping up to LTE where it's available for data.
"We commend Verizon Wireless for helping to make this a reality by conducting the world's first voice call over a commercial LTE network," Alex Sinclair, chief technology officer at the GSM Assocation (GSMA), said in a statement. "The progress made by the GSMA, its members, and in particular Verizon Wireless, to enable this functionality will play a crucial role in driving strong momentum and vast economies of scale for LTE all over the world."
Verizon said it will showcase IMS-based VoLTE calls during next week's Mobile World Congress.