[NEW] Blog Post: Navigating VoLTE with Public Mobile

[J_PM]

Navigating VoLTE with Public Mobile: Your Guide to Enhanced Calling

Voice Over LTE (VoLTE) is already revolutionizing the way Public Mobile customers experience mobile connectivity. If you're enjoying the benefits of VoLTE or looking to make the most out of this advanced feature, here's your comprehensive guide to ensuring seamless communication, whether you're in Canada or roaming in the U.S.

Understanding VoLTE

VoLTE enhances your mobile experience on the Public Mobile network by leveraging the LTE network for phone calls, without dipping into your data bucket. Here are some of the standout benefits:

• High-Quality Calls: Experience clearer audio quality, especially when calling another VoLTE-enabled device.
• Simultaneous Voice and Data: Ability to use voice and LTE data simultaneously. This means you can browse the web, stream content, or use apps while on a call, all without impacting your data plan. 
• Quick Call Setup: Enjoy faster call connections compared to traditional networks, making your communication more efficient and reliable. 

Activating VoLTE: A Seamless Process

All customers who join Public Mobile are automatically enjoying VoLTE. Here’s how to ensure you’re making the most of it:

• Device Compatibility: Check if your phone is VoLTE-capable (see the list below).
• Software Update: Keep your device updated to the latest software version.
• Restart Your Phone: A simple restart can help your phone connect to the VoLTE network properly.
• Coverage Check: Ensure you are within a VoLTE-enabled LTE coverage area.

VoLTE Across Canada and the U.S.

VoLTE’s reach extends across Canada, including VoLTE E911 services. When you're in the U.S., you can also tap into the VoLTE network, as long as your device supports VoLTE roaming.

The U.S. Roaming Experience with VoLTE

As U.S. carriers phase out 3G/HSPA networks, VoLTE becomes crucial for roaming. Here's what you need to know:

• VoLTE in the U.S.: Stay connected over the LTE network in the States.
• Roaming Rates and Short-Codes: Standard roaming rates apply, with some limitations on short-code and toll-free number usage.

Note: Please be aware, if your VoLTE is not turned on, you may not have voice or SMS service.

Troubleshooting Your VoLTE Experience

Encountering issues? Here are a few quick fixes:

• Service Checks: If you’re having trouble with calls or data, confirm you have the correct roaming add-on and that your APN settings are accurate.
• Roaming Settings: Enable roaming by navigating to your phone’s cellular settings.

VoLTE-Enabled Devices on Public Mobile

From the latest iPhones to the newest Samsung Galaxy models, a wide range of devices are ready for VoLTE. Some notable mentions include:

• Apple iPhone 8 & above
• Google Pixel 4 series and newer
• Samsung Galaxy S21 series and beyond
• Select Motorola edge and Moto G models
• TCL and Sonim models

Note: Some devices purchased outside of Canada may not be VoLTE compatible 

Wrapping Up

VoLTE with Public Mobile is more than just a feature, it's a step towards future-proofing your communication needs. Whether you're in a bustling city in Canada or traveling across the U.S., VoLTE ensures you stay connected with clarity and ease.

For a deeper dive into VoLTE and a complete list of compatible devices, head over to our detailed VoLTE FAQ page here. 

[wavid]

This is a step in the right direction and I'm happy to see Public Mobile improving their service! 

That said, I would love to see wifi calling added as a feature one day. It is the one thing still missing from Public Mobile that has me considering other carriers - for travel and local areas where service is otherwise spotty/nonexistant.

[Raheel672]

Does not work 

[DennyCrane]

@StillAngry No service in Australia with PM. PM only offers roaming in the US.

[StillAngry]

What about international use, specifically Australia?  Thanks in advance for clarification..

[DennyCrane]

@notchman1 It should be automatically provisioned at the account level. I.e. if you put your sim in a whitelisted phone, VoLTE should work.

[notchman1]

I've been with PM since before they started supporting VoLTE. My current phone is not on the list of supported devices.

When I dial *#*#4636#*#* I see that VoLTE is not provisioned. When I call 611 with Wifi off it changes from LTE+ to H+.

If I were to change phones to a supported device, will VoLTE be provisioned automatically? Or do I need to contact someone to provision it?

[PrettyFly]

Come on, please activate this on my account already.. my device is on the Telus and Koodo approved list. You're the same company, even if it's a different arm.. just do it already please, thanks.

[Shan_Bhai]

The vast majority of phones equipped with VOLTE features are not supported by Public Mobile. When seeking assistance from customer support, you will likely receive a message stating that your phone does not support VOLTE, despite the reality being that Public Mobile does not offer VOLTE support for our devices. The only solution provided is to purchase a phone from the list of supported devices (or maybe trying a new sim). Personally, I do not consider this an environmentally friendly solution for VOLTE issue. Just envision the scenario where hundreds of thousands of perfectly operational phones are being discarded simply because the network provider is unable to properly enable VOLTE on existing devices. I wish Public mobile look into this issue urgently.

[DennyCrane]

@Anonymous PM's provisioning doesn't show the toggle as far as I'm aware. Nothing we as customers can do about that.

Being connected to the LTE network doesn't necessarily mean you can make phone calls on the LTE network (VoLTE), hence the steps I have you to test it out. If you stay connected to 4G/LTE or 5G when you're on a call, you're good. Up until February last year when PM started implementing VoLTE, all of PM's calls would fallback to the 3G network.

[Anonymous]

@DennyCrane, Thanks for your response. Still I'm not clear. My phone is set to LTE and calls will normally go through its network in anyway correct?

Was expecting a VoLTE on/off toggle button for confirmation. This was visible when in US under AT&T network but on its own ie PM is not appearing.

[DennyCrane]

@Anonymous Yes, it's complete. You may not see an option though. To test if you have VoLTE:

1) Temporarily turn WiFi off

2) Ensure you're connected to either the 4G/LTE or 5G network

3) Place a phone call

4) When the call connects, look at the connection at the top of your screen. If you're still connected to the 4G/LTE or 5G networks while the call is connected, VoLTE is working on your device.

If your phone drops to 3G during the call, you don't. You should though, as PM has whitelisted iPhone 8 and newer for VoLTE.

5) Turn WiFi back on if desired

[Anonymous]

Is the VoLTE rollout complete? If so, don't see it on my iPhone12 yet for PM.

[Dubes]

Enhancing voice quality and expediting call setup times, VoLTE leverages the LTE data network for voice calls. It's important to note that the availability of VoLTE is contingent upon both your device and the specific network capabilities of Public Mobile.

To activate VoLTE on Public Mobile, you can adhere to these general instructions:

1. Verify Device Compatibility: Confirm that your smartphone is compatible with Public Mobile's VoLTE. Not all devices support this feature, necessitating a VoLTE-capable device.

2. Update Software: Ensure your device's software is current. Carriers may release updates that incorporate VoLTE support, making it essential to have the latest software.

3. Check Network Settings: Navigate to your device's settings and locate the network or call settings. Look for an option related to VoLTE or HD Voice and activate it if available.

4. Reach Out to Public Mobile Support: If you encounter difficulties finding VoLTE settings or are uncertain about compatibility, consider contacting Public Mobile customer support. They can offer tailored information and guidance based on your device and the current state of their network.

5. Confirm SIM Card Compatibility: Verify that your Public Mobile SIM card supports VoLTE. In certain instances, carriers may mandate a specific type of SIM card to enable certain features.

Keep in mind that the steps and availability of VoLTE may vary. The information provided is rooted in general guidelines. For the most accurate and current details on enabling VoLTE with Public Mobile, it is recommended to contact their customer support or consult their official documentation.

[Rox2]

It might already be on. You can try:

- Open Phone dialer
- Enter *#*#4636#*#*
- Tap Phone Information
- Tap the three dots on the top right, then tap IMS Server Status
- It'll tell you if VoLTE and VoWiFi is available.

FWIW my Motorola ThinkPhone does not show the toggle at all but it shows it's already enabled.

[Korth_]

---

@ToniCipriani85 wrote:

It might already be on. You can try:

- Open Phone dialer
- Enter *#*#4636#*#*
- Tap Phone Information
- Tap the three dots on the top right, then tap IMS Server Status
- It'll tell you if VoLTE and VoWiFi is available.

FWIW my Motorola ThinkPhone does not show the toggle at all but it shows it's already enabled.

---

*#*#4636#*#* does not work on all devices. It is an OEM code, not a network code.

It is a way to access test menus for certain OEMs. It's not even supported on all devices made by a single OEM; ie, it might work with some Samsung Galaxy devices (or one some HTC, Huawei, Google, etc) Android devices while not working on others.

If it lets you see things are working then things are working. But if it doesn't show things working then the results mean nothing - maybe your particular device from a particular firmware revision just happens to have the code disabled. If you don't see working network status then this code itself won't let you determine whether there's a problem with your phone, with the network, or no problem at all.

https://android.stackexchange.com/questions/8194/what-does-the-4636-dialer-code-do

Best way to check if your Public Mobile service is working is just to make a call. Even to 611.

More phones support a VoLTE icon on the top bar than support this particular OEM keycodes. They're not telephony items, they have nothing to do with the service network.

[ToniCipriani85]

It might already be on. You can try:

- Open Phone dialer
- Enter *#*#4636#*#*
- Tap Phone Information
- Tap the three dots on the top right, then tap IMS Server Status
- It'll tell you if VoLTE and VoWiFi is available.

FWIW my Motorola ThinkPhone does not show the toggle at all but it shows it's already enabled.

[Shan_Bhai]

I believe it's crucial to highlight that Public Mobile may not provision many fully VOLTE-compatible devices correctly. This implies that even if you possess a VOLTE-compatible device, you might not be able to access the VOLTE feature. Only devices such as iPhones and Samsungs and few other handful of brands are currently enabled for this functionality."

[dabr]

@Pvkom26   You can test if you have VoLTE or not although as mentioned already PM (Telus) has severely (arbitrarily) restricted devices that are compatible from being able to access VoLTE.

One way to test it is to go into your phone's settings>about phone>status information>SIM card status and then make a call to your device and see if it stays on LTE, under mobile voice network, or not.

[Jormungandr]

Anyone with Galaxy S22 Ultra (Canadian version) have their VoLTE working?  My SW/FW is currently on Android 13 (OneUI 5.1).  The VoLTE option is not showing up.  A CS Agent already provided some information, but it is still not available.

[Pvkom26]

Hm… So there is no indication inside the phone whatsoever on whether or not you’re using VoLTE when talking?

I had Chatr before and I can say for sure that the clarity of phone calls is much better now, I’m assuming that’s because of this VoLTE thing… 

[ToniCipriani85]

Their list is weird... I had a BlackBerry KEY2 that Telus lists as compatible, and for the longest time it never worked on Koodo. When I switched back to PM worked out of the box.

Yet my other phone, a Koodo-issued Moto One Hyper, actually has instructions for turning VoLTE on the help page, did not work on either brands. Telus also lists it as compatible.

So yeah, there's no logic to what is supported or not.

[deltatux]

Sadly as long as TELUS continues to artificially restrict what device can connect to its VoLTE network, even devices bought in Canada are being excluded.

Case in point, OnePlus devices are still being excluded, even though they're sold in Canada, just not through the carriers.

It's time to expand this so that as long as they support the VoLTE standard, they can connect or else Telus (by extension Public Mobile) is going to be forcing upgrades and causing ewaste on perfectly capable devices when they shut down HSPA (3G).

[jor123]

WiFi calling would be great for low signal areas. 

[DennyCrane]

Informative article. Two corrections though:

1) The 3G networks are beyond being "phased out" in the US, they're gone already.

2) SMS is not dependent on VoLTE

[Zahir_h]

Does PM have any plans to launch WiFi calling? (Specifically the ability to use WiFi calling internationally?)  I travel out of Canada for a few months at a time, and it's impossible to do online banking without the ability to get 2FA