If you use mobile data to work, stream videos or keep your laptop connected through a hotspot, you know how frustrating it is when a phone call comes in and your internet drops. Econet’s VoLTE technology aims to change that, allowing compatible phones to make calls over 4G while staying connected. 

What is VoLTE, and why should you care?

VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE. Normally, when some phones receive or make a call, they switch from 4G to an older network such as 3G. That switch can interrupt your internet connection, especially if you are using your phone as a hotspot for a laptop or other devices.

VoLTE changes that. Your call travels over the 4G network, allowing your phone to maintain its data connection while you talk.

Imagine downloading a work file on your laptop through your phone's hotspot when an important call comes in. With VoLTE enabled on a supported Econet line and phone, your download can continue instead of being interrupted by the call. You can also keep streaming, browsing and chatting while talking.

Calls can connect faster and sound clearer, too.

Video calls without opening WhatsApp

Here is where things get even more interesting. Econet's VoLTE rollout has brought attention to carrier-based video calling, which allows compatible phones to make video calls directly from their normal calling interface.

Instead of opening WhatsApp, finding a contact and starting a video call, you can use the phone's dialler where the feature is supported.

This could be especially useful when you want to see the person you are calling but do not have WhatsApp available or an active data bundle. However, native video calling requires compatible devices and network support.

How to activate VoLTE on Econet

On most Android phones, open Settings and look under Mobile Network, SIM settings or Connections. Find VoLTE Calls, 4G Calling or Enhanced 4G LTE Mode and switch it on for your Econet SIM.

On an iPhone, go to Settings, select Mobile Service or Cellular, choose your Econet line and look under Voice & Data for the relevant option.

Econet has been sending activation messages to subscribers and encouraging them to enable the service. If you cannot find the setting, contact Econet on 111 to confirm whether your line and phone are supported.

A 4G phone alone does not guarantee access to every feature. Video calling in particular requires additional compatibility.

With Econet preparing to retire its 3G network by the end of December 2027, VoLTE is an important step towards a more modern mobile experience. For subscribers with compatible devices, it means calls no longer have to bring everything else online to a halt.