China Mobile intends to launch VoLTE and RCS sometime in 2H without specifying the subscriber target.
For a phone call to take place via VoLTE, we understand the handsets of both the caller and the receiver have to be VoLTE-compatible. Given a VoLTE compatible phone is just being launched in China, we believe it could take years before 100% of handsets in China are VoLTE-compatible. We will not be surprised if the initial adoption of VoLTE service generates low interest from CM?s subscribers.
Though LTE enabled handset availability has improved considerably (Xiaomi, Motorola and Micromax offering 4G enabled devices from ~US$120 onwards) providing VoLTE (Voice over LTE) will remain a challenge. Given the VoLTE-compatible phone is just being launched in China, initial adoption of VoLTE by subscribers (in China) may be immaterial and it could take years before 100% of handsets there are VoLTE compatible
