The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has advised mobile phone users to review their network settings and adopt newer technologies, including Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE), Wi-Fi Calling and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), to improve call quality and mobile internet connectivity.
The telecom regulator issued the guidance on Thursday in response to consumer complaints about poor voice quality and delays in connecting calls over 4G and LTE networks. It urged users to check their handset settings and ensure that the 4G/LTE option is enabled.
The PTA also recommended activating VoLTE, Wi-Fi Calling and VoWiFi, where available, noting that access to these services depends on compatibility between mobile devices and network operators.
The advice is particularly relevant to areas where 4G coverage is expanding following a recent spectrum auction.
According to the regulator, VoLTE enables voice calls over 4G networks, improving audio clarity and reducing call connection times. However, the handset, SIM card and mobile operator must all support the technology for users to benefit from the service.
For locations with weak mobile signals, including homes and basements, the PTA highlighted the usefulness of Wi-Fi Calling and VoWiFi. These technologies allow users to make calls through a Wi-Fi connection, provided the handset and mobile operator support the feature.
Users can access the service by enabling the Wi-Fi Calling option in their phone settings and connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
The regulator also stressed the importance of ensuring that both handsets and SIM cards support 4G services. As some older SIM cards may not be compatible with 4G or VoLTE, consumers were advised to upgrade their SIMs where necessary.
The 4G/LTE standard represents the fourth generation of mobile network technology and provides faster mobile internet speeds than 3G.
