Have you ever been in the middle of an important conversation, only to realize that your 4G internet connection has vanished? You’re not alone. Many mobile users have experienced this frustrating phenomenon, where their 4G data connection stops working as soon as they receive or make a call. But why does this happen? In this article, we’ll delve into the technical reasons behind this issue and explore possible solutions to get your 4G up and running smoothly, even when you’re on a call.
The Basics of 4G and Voice Calls
Before we dive into the reasons behind this issue, let’s quickly cover the basics of 4G and voice calls.
4G (LTE)
4G, also known as LTE (Long-Term Evolution), is a wireless communication standard used for high-speed internet access on mobile devices. It allows users to browse the internet, stream videos, and download files at incredibly fast speeds. 4G operates on a separate frequency band, which is different from the frequency band used for voice calls.
Voice Calls (2G/3G)
Voice calls, on the other hand, use a different type of wireless communication standard, typically 2G or 3G. These networks are designed specifically for voice transmission and are not meant for high-speed data transfer. When you make or receive a call, your phone switches to the voice call network, which is separate from the 4G network.
The Technical Reasons Behind the Issue
Now that we have a basic understanding of 4G and voice calls, let’s explore the technical reasons why your 4G stops working during calls.
Single Radio Problem
The primary reason behind this issue is the “single radio problem.” In most smartphones, there is only one radio transceiver that handles both voice calls and 4G data connectivity. When you’re on a call, the radio transceiver prioritizes the voice call and switches to the voice call network, which is a different frequency band. This means that the radio transceiver is no longer available to handle 4G data connectivity, resulting in a loss of internet access.
Handover and Handback
Another reason for this issue is the handover and handback process. When you’re on a call and move from one cell tower to another, the network performs a handover, which involves transferring the call from one tower to another. During this process, the network may briefly disconnect your 4G data connection to ensure a seamless handover. However, in some cases, the handback process, which is supposed to restore your 4G connection, may not work correctly, resulting in a persistent loss of internet access.
Network Congestion
Network congestion can also contribute to the issue. When multiple users are accessing the same network resources, it can lead to congestion, which can cause slow data speeds or even complete loss of connectivity. If you’re in an area with high network usage, it’s possible that your 4G connection may be affected during a call.
Possible Solutions to the Problem
Now that we’ve discussed the technical reasons behind the issue, let’s explore some possible solutions to get your 4G up and running smoothly, even when you’re on a call.
VoLTE (Voice over LTE)
One solution is to use VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology, which allows voice calls to be made over the 4G network, eliminating the need to switch to a separate voice call network. VoLTE enables simultaneous use of voice and data services, ensuring that your 4G connection remains active during calls. However, VoLTE requires specific hardware and software support, which may not be available on all devices or networks.
Dual-SIM and Dual-Radio Devices
Another solution is to use dual-SIM and dual-radio devices, which have two separate radio transceivers. These devices can handle both voice calls and 4G data connectivity simultaneously, ensuring that your internet connection remains active during calls. However, dual-SIM and dual-radio devices are less common and may not be compatible with all networks or tariffs.
Network Optimization
Network optimization is another possible solution. Mobile networks can optimize their infrastructure to minimize the impact of handover and handback processes on 4G data connectivity. Additionally, networks can implement traffic management policies to reduce congestion and ensure a smoother user experience.
Device and Software Updates
Regular device and software updates can also help resolve the issue. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can help ensure a more reliable 4G connection during calls.
Workarounds for the Issue
While waiting for networks and device manufacturers to implement solutions, there are some workarounds you can use to minimize the impact of this issue.
Wi-Fi Calling
One workaround is to use Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make voice calls over Wi-Fi networks. This eliminates the need to switch to a separate voice call network, ensuring that your 4G connection remains active during calls. However, Wi-Fi calling requires a stable Wi-Fi connection and may not be available on all devices or networks.
Data-Only SIM Cards
Another workaround is to use data-only SIM cards, which are specifically designed for data connectivity and do not support voice calls. This means that you won’t experience any disruption to your 4G connection during calls. However, this solution requires a separate device or a dual-SIM phone, which may not be convenient for everyone.
Conclusion
The issue of 4G not working during calls is a frustrating problem that affects many mobile users. In this article, we’ve explored the technical reasons behind this issue, including the single radio problem, handover and handback processes, and network congestion. We’ve also discussed possible solutions, such as VoLTE, dual-SIM and dual-radio devices, network optimization, and device and software updates. While we wait for these solutions to be implemented, workarounds like Wi-Fi calling and data-only SIM cards can help minimize the impact of this issue. By understanding the technical complexities behind this problem, we can better navigate the limitations of our mobile devices and find ways to stay connected, even when we’re on a call.
What is Call Failover and how does it affect my 4G connection?
Call Failover is a feature that allows your phone to automatically switch from 4G to 3G or 2G when you make or receive a call. This is because older networks like 3G and 2G have better support for voice calls, and your phone prioritizes maintaining the call over keeping the faster data connection. While Call Failover is designed to ensure you can make and receive calls, it can sometimes cause your 4G connection to drop.
The exact behavior of Call Failover varies depending on your phone model, carrier, and location. In some cases, your phone may drop down to 3G or 2G only for the duration of the call, while in other cases, it may stay on the slower network until you restart your phone. Either way, it can be frustrating to lose your 4G connection, especially if you’re in the middle of an important online task.
Why do some phones not experience 4G disconnections during calls?
Some newer phones, particularly those that support Voice over LTE (VoLTE), are less likely to experience 4G disconnections during calls. VoLTE is a technology that allows for voice calls to be made over the 4G network, eliminating the need for Call Failover. When you make a call on a VoLTE-enabled phone, your phone can maintain the 4G connection and handle the call simultaneously.
Not all phones or carriers support VoLTE, however, which means many users may still experience 4G disconnections during calls. Even among VoLTE-enabled phones, there may be instances where the 4G connection drops, such as when you’re in an area with poor network coverage.
Is there a way to prevent my 4G connection from dropping during calls?
While there’s no foolproof way to prevent 4G disconnections entirely, there are some steps you can take to minimize the issue. One approach is to check if your phone and carrier support VoLTE, and enable it if possible. You can also try restarting your phone regularly to ensure you’re on the best available network. Additionally, being in an area with good network coverage can reduce the likelihood of your 4G connection dropping.
It’s also worth noting that some phones may have settings that allow you to prioritize data over voice calls. However, these settings may vary depending on your phone model and operating system, and may not be available on all devices. Ultimately, the best approach may be to wait for carriers and phone manufacturers to develop more robust solutions to this issue.
Will 5G solve the problem of 4G disconnections during calls?
The advent of 5G technology is expected to bring several improvements to mobile networks, including better support for voice calls. 5G networks are designed to handle voice and data traffic more efficiently, which should reduce the likelihood of 4G disconnections during calls. Additionally, 5G’s higher bandwidth and lower latency should provide a more seamless experience when switching between data and voice modes.
However, it’s worth noting that the widespread adoption of 5G is still in its early stages, and it may take some time before 5G networks become the new standard. Moreover, the performance of 5G networks can vary depending on factors like network coverage, phone hardware, and software. While 5G holds promise for reducing 4G disconnections during calls, it’s not a guarantee that the problem will be completely eliminated.
Why do some carriers handle 4G disconnections better than others?
Carriers can vary in how well they handle 4G disconnections during calls due to differences in their network infrastructure and technology. Some carriers may have more advanced networks that are better equipped to handle simultaneous voice and data traffic, reducing the likelihood of 4G disconnections. Others may have implemented specific solutions or workarounds to minimize the issue.
Carrier policies and priorities can also play a role in how well they handle 4G disconnections. For example, some carriers may prioritize voice calls over data traffic, while others may focus on providing the fastest data speeds possible. Additionally, carriers may have different levels of investment in their network infrastructure, which can impact their ability to support seamless voice and data services.
Can I switch to a different carrier to avoid 4G disconnections during calls?
If you’re experiencing frequent 4G disconnections during calls, you may want to consider switching to a different carrier that prioritizes voice and data service quality. However, it’s essential to research and compare different carriers’ network performance, coverage, and features before making a switch.
Keep in mind that carrier performance can vary depending on your location, so it’s crucial to check coverage in your area before switching. You may also want to ask friends, family, or colleagues about their experiences with different carriers to get a better sense of which ones perform well in your region.
Will phone manufacturers develop solutions to this problem?
Phone manufacturers are aware of the issue of 4G disconnections during calls and are working to develop solutions. Some manufacturers are implementing new technologies, such as dual-SIM support, that can help mitigate the problem. Others are optimizing their phone software to better handle the transition between voice and data modes.
However, phone manufacturers can only do so much to address the issue, as it often lies with the carrier’s network infrastructure. It’s essential for carriers and phone manufacturers to work together to develop more comprehensive solutions that can provide seamless voice and data services. With the growing demand for mobile data and voice services, it’s likely that we’ll see continued innovation and improvement in this area.