Verizon Wireless today said it will officially rollout VoLTE services "later this year." Verizon originally committed to launching VoLTE by the end of 2013, but then delayed the launch for reasons unknown. Though Verizon Wireless did not say exactly when VoLTE will finally get off the ground, it did share a few more details about what consumers can expect. For example, Verizon's VoLTE service will include HD Voice, just as AT&T's VoLTE service will. Verizon said it will have a solid lineup of VoLTE-capable devices when the service goes live, and that other handsets can be VoLTE-enabled through a software update. Verizon pointed out that both handsets must be VoLTE-capable for HD Voice calls to work. Further, Verizon's VoLTE will power instantaneous voice-only to voice-and-video calls in the middle of conversations. Last, Verizon will include other Rich Communications Services, such as larger file transfers, more reliable group messaging, and better location sharing. Verizon didn't say which devices will be VoLTE-ready at launch, nor if it will launch in just a few markets - as AT&T is on May 23 - or if it will roll out VoLTE on a grander scale from the beginning. VoLTE represents the next-generation of voice services via mobile networks.


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