Mavenir launches VoWifi solution for cable operators

Software-based networking solutions provider Mavenir has announced a voice-over-wifi (VoWifi) solution aimed at cable operators, claiming it will enhance TV and internet bundles.

Mavenir said the solution incorporates features for session control and subscriber management and activation, as well as application and messaging servers, and access and border gateways. The firm said it can be either integrated into operator’s existing IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) core network, or deployed as a ‘greenfield’ network for voice, video and messaging over wifi.

The Texas-based firm claimed it is engaged with multiple operators over plans to implement the solution, and said both above mentioned deployment scenarios are being considered by different parties. According to the company, cable operators have a growing interest in including Vowifi as part of their service packages. “We believe that VoWifi changes the competitive landscape for cable operators,” Pardeep Kohli, Mavenir’s President and CEO said.

“Mavenir’s converged IMS solution provides cable operators the benefit of seamless mobility between wifi and cellular networks, as well as proven interoperability and a native user experience on the latest wifi Calling enabled devices, such as Apple’s iPhone 6.”

The VoWifi solution, part of the firm’s wider virtualisation portfolio, is based on Mavenir’s mOne Convergence platform, IMS core and application servers, and cross-platform mobile clients. The company said the solution takes advantage of NFV in the deployment of new services on service providers’ cloud infrastructures.

With clear movement towards more convergent offerings in the telecoms industry in general, it makes sense cable operators too would look to solutions enabling them to offer calls and messages as part of their services. Whether this will prove a truly competitive solution for retaining or gaining customers, remains to be seen.