No, 5G itself is not VoIP. 5G is a fifth-generation wireless cellular network technology providing significantly faster data speeds and lower latency than its predecessors (3G and 4G). VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that transmits voice communications over the internet or any other data network, instead of the traditional public switched telephone network (PSTN).
While 5G doesn't equal VoIP, it enables significantly improved VoIP services. The low latency and high bandwidth of 5G networks are ideal for high-quality VoIP calls, video calls, and other real-time communication applications. The improved quality is noted in several sources: One source explicitly states that "5G VoIP provides [low latency]" which is crucial for clear and reliable VoIP calls. [Source: What are the benefits of 5G VoIP? | TechTarget] Another source discusses 5G's use in "Voice over NR(VoNR) and video over NR (ViNR)," confirming its use for voice and video calls. [Source: 5G Voice - Make your mobile network ready - Ericsson]
Several examples highlight the relationship:
- Improved VoIP quality: 5G's speed and low latency result in clearer, more reliable VoIP calls compared to older network technologies.
- 5G VoIP gateways: While some users report issues with specific 5G gateways and VoIP phones [Source: VoIP phones do not work with 5G gateway : r/tmobileisp], this points to compatibility problems rather than a fundamental incompatibility between 5G and VoIP. Other sources mention 5G gateways explicitly designed for VoIP use. [Source: VOIP GSM/CDMA/4G/5G LTE GATEWAY]
- VoLTE builds upon VoIP: While distinct, VoLTE (Voice over LTE) leverages 4G and 5G speeds to enhance VoIP. [Source: What is the Difference Between VoLTE and VoIP | SSI]
However, it's crucial to understand that 5G's role is in providing the underlying network infrastructure. The actual VoIP communication still requires a VoIP application or service. Simply having a 5G connection doesn't automatically make your phone calls VoIP; the phone itself and its settings dictate the transmission method.
