VoLTE, or Voice over LTE, is a technology that lets you make voice calls over a 4G LTE data connection instead of a traditional phone line. For a travel eSIM, VoLTE matters only if your eSIM includes a voice service. Most travel eSIMs, including those sold by TPG Mobile, are data-only, so VoLTE is not something you need to check before you buy.
Understanding VoLTE and How It Works
VoLTE is a standard used by mobile networks to carry voice calls as data packets over the LTE network. When you make a call, your phone uses the same 4G connection that carries your internet data. This can mean faster call setup and clearer audio compared with older 2G or 3G voice networks.
To use VoLTE, you need three things: a phone that supports VoLTE, a mobile plan that includes VoLTE calling, and a network that has VoLTE enabled. If any of these are missing, your phone will usually fall back to an older network for voice calls, or the call may not work at all.
How Data-Only Travel eSIMs Differ
A data-only travel eSIM provides internet access but does not include a phone number or a voice service. This means you cannot make or receive traditional calls using that eSIM, and VoLTE is not available on it. The eSIM simply connects your phone to the internet for data use, such as browsing, messaging, and using apps.
With a data-only eSIM, your phone's usual SIM card can still be used for voice calls if it supports VoLTE and your home network offers it. But when you are overseas, your usual SIM may charge roaming fees for voice calls, so many travellers choose to use internet-based calling apps instead.
Internet Calling: An Alternative to VoLTE
Internet calling apps, such as WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime, let you make voice and video calls over a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. These apps do not use VoLTE because they are not tied to a mobile network's voice service. They only need an internet connection, which your travel eSIM can provide.
When you use an internet calling app with your travel eSIM, the call is treated as data. This means it uses data from your eSIM plan, and there are no additional voice charges from a network operator. However, the quality of the call depends on your data connection speed and stability, not on VoLTE.
Why VoLTE Is Less Relevant for Travel eSIM Users
For most travellers using a data-only travel eSIM, VoLTE is not a feature you need to consider. Since the eSIM does not provide a voice service, VoLTE does not apply to it. Your focus should be on choosing the right data amount and ensuring your phone is compatible with the eSIM.
If you want to make calls while overseas, you have two main options. You can use an internet calling app over your eSIM data, or you can use your usual SIM card's voice roaming, which may incur roaming charges. The choice depends on your needs and the cost of roaming from your home network.
How to Set Up Your Travel eSIM Before Departure
Setting up a travel eSIM is straightforward, and doing it before you leave Singapore can save time and stress. First, check that your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Most recent smartphones do, but it is worth confirming with your device manufacturer.
Next, purchase a travel eSIM plan from TPG Mobile that suits your destination and data needs. You will receive a QR code or an activation code. Scan the QR code with your phone's camera or enter the code in your phone's settings to add the eSIM. Follow the on-screen instructions, and the eSIM will be installed.
Before you travel, make sure your phone is set to use the eSIM for data when you arrive. You can also keep your usual SIM card in the phone for receiving SMS or calls, but be aware of roaming charges. Some phones allow you to have both SIMs active, so you can switch between them as needed.
Choosing the Right Data Plan for Your Trip
When selecting a travel eSIM, consider how much data you are likely to use. Activities like video calls, streaming, and navigation use more data than messaging and email. TPG Mobile offers a range of travel eSIM plans with different data allowances, so you can choose one that matches your travel habits.
If you plan to use internet calling apps, remember that voice and video calls consume data. A one-hour video call can use about 1.5 GB, while a voice call might use around 30 MB. Estimate your usage to avoid running out of data mid-trip, and consider choosing a plan with a buffer.
What to Do When You Arrive at Your Destination
When you land, turn on your phone and enable the travel eSIM for data. If you set it up correctly, you should connect to a local network automatically. If not, check your phone's settings to select the eSIM as the data line, and ensure that data roaming is enabled for that eSIM.
Once connected, you can use your internet calling apps to make calls and send messages. Keep your usual SIM card active if you want to receive calls on your home number, but remember that incoming calls may incur roaming charges. You can also choose to disable the usual SIM's data to avoid unexpected charges.
VoLTE and Your Home Network
VoLTE may still matter for your home SIM card when you return to Singapore. If your mobile plan supports VoLTE, you can enjoy high-quality voice calls on your usual network. But for overseas travel, your travel eSIM is primarily about data, not voice.
In summary, VoLTE is a technology for voice calls over LTE, but it does not apply to data-only travel eSIMs. Your travel eSIM provides internet access, and you can use internet calling apps to make calls over that data. Focus on selecting the right data plan and setting up your eSIM before you leave, and you can stay connected without worrying about VoLTE compatibility.
