OpenCloud snapped up by Metaswitch for its software VoLTE riches

UK Telecoms cloud software company Metaswitch has acquired mobile virtualiztion company and fellow brit OpenCloud to offer a pure-play software VoLTE solution.

VoLTE has been a work in progress for a while but as be progress through the 4G decimal points in the run up to 5G it is becoming ever more important to use it for voice as well as data. This is one of OpenCloud’s core strengths and one that Metaswitch thinks will be a key component of its telecoms cloud offering.

“The acquisition of OpenCloud is a key part of our portfolio expansion strategy to fully serve both mobile and converged network operators,” said Metaswitch CEO Martin Lund. “Global operators have long looked to Metaswitch for innovative communication solutions and we are now perfectly placed to ensure the rapid deployment of VoLTE today, and to quickly deliver differentiated services on the path to 5G.”

“Metaswitch is the ideal strategic and cultural fit for OpenCloud and our customers,” said OpenCloud CEO Ian Clarke. “Both companies have outstanding engineering teams, a commitment to continued leadership in virtualized network functions, proven mobile service solutions and a dedication to advancing the cause of our mobile customers, worldwide.”

The terms of the acquisition haven’t been revealed but as they’re both private companies there should be few impediments to the smooth completion of the acquisition, especially since the two had already been working together. You can read more analysis of the move on Light Reading here.