A1 Belarus made the first 5G call

A1 Belarus made the first call within the test 5G SA network in a new quality format. This call was possible due to the introduction and testing of the VoNR technology (Voice over New Radio) used for 5G high-definition voice packet transmission.

VoNR, or Vo5G, is an advanced technology which allows making voice and video calls in the Standalone 5G networks (i.e. which have a standalone architecture and are not add-ins to existing previous generation networks). This new technology ensures instant connection with the interlocutor and a seamless transition from 5G to 4G during a call. In addition, VoNR allows using 5G high-speed mobile Internet even during a call.

To use the VoNR technology, a mobile device should support 5G SA and be officially intended for use in Belarus.

In particular, the first test VoNR call was made from the smartphone powered by latest MediaTek Dimensity 1000 series SoC (System-on-Chip) within the first full-fledged 5G network launched by A1 at the October Square in the test mode (particularly, in the A1's head office and in the area near the Palace of the Republic). 5G SA is being simultaneously tested in the Great Stone Industrial Park.

The A1's test 5G network deployment project was implemented in partnership with ZTE, one of the world leaders in the field of telecommunications equipment supply.

The number of test zones is going to rise further on: they will be installed on the premises of the Minsk-Arena multifunctional cultural and sports complex. A mobile base station will also be established near the Minsk Sports Palace. The entire network will operate on the basis of the autonomous architecture, SA. Unlike non-standalone (NSA) architecture networks, pure 5G networks are deployed without binding to the 4G/LTE infrastructure.