Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO Unveil Holographic Call Integration

The Brief: Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO have successfully integrated holographic calls into smartphone dialers, eliminating the need for additional applications. This achievement, realized through a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) for the IMS Data Channel, showcases the potential of 5G and 6G technology to revolutionize communication. The PoC was carried out using Samsung Galaxy S series devices, transmitting a real-time hologram with two-way audio. The project is part of the 6G-XR European initiative, which aims to advance immersive technologies. Telefónica coordinated the effort, Ericsson provided the necessary infrastructure, and MATSUKO supplied the holographic application technology.

Explore full details of the announcement about holographic call integration at telefonica.com.

Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO Unveil Holographic Call Integration

Analyst Perspective: The integration of holographic calls into native smartphone dialers signals a noteworthy advancement in how we might communicate in the future. Mobile users could soon experience seamless holographic communication through their existing telephony services by leveraging the IMS Data Channel. This development is crucial for industries that rely on interactive and immersive communication, such as remote collaboration and virtual meetings.

For businesses, this breakthrough could open doors to more engaging and personalized communication experiences, particularly in customer service or virtual consultations. The fact that this technology is compatible with 5G smartphones suggests it could become widely accessible once commercialized, offering a competitive advantage to early adopters.

Source: Telefonica

The Importance of Holographic Communication

The successful integration of holographic calls represents a pivotal moment in telecommunications. As the companies involved highlight, the advancement of IMS Data Channel technology is a crucial step toward transforming traditional voice services. Users will benefit from enhanced connectivity and interaction with the capability to deliver immersive communication experiences, moving beyond the limitations of standard voice calls. This development has implications for industries relying on remote communication, such as education, healthcare, and entertainment, as it paves the way for more engaging and effective collaboration.

Advancements in IMS Data Channel Technology

IMS Data Channel technology serves as the backbone for this innovative holographic communication. It allows mobile operators to provide improved services and interactive experiences to users by enhancing existing IMS voice networks. The PoC has illustrated the technology's potential to support high-quality, reliable connections while ensuring user security and seamless mobility. With Telefónica leading the charge since 2021, their ongoing efforts with partners such as Ericsson and MATSUKO are expected to facilitate the development of commercial services, particularly for 5G smartphones.

Integration into Existing Dialers Simplifies User Experience

The successful PoC by Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO demonstrates how holographic communication can be integrated directly into the dialer interface of smartphones. The technology becomes far more accessible for everyday users by removing the need for additional applications. This integration enhances traditional voice networks with capabilities for immersive and interactive services as it leverages IMS Data Channel. For this demonstration, Samsung Galaxy S series smartphones were used to transmit real-time holograms. This achievement not only simplifies the user experience but also sets the stage for future 5G and 6G applications that could transform communication across industries.

Collaboration Drives Innovation in Holographic Communication

This Proof-of-Concept highlights the combined expertise of Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO. Telefónica oversaw the project, coordinating efforts and ensuring smooth service delivery. Ericsson contributed its IMS infrastructure, enabling the transmission and management of holographic calls, while MATSUKO brought the holographic technology necessary to capture and process the hologram data. The collaboration between these three companies showcases how partnerships can push the boundaries of innovation, paving the way for more immersive communication tools in the future. This PoC could be a remarkable step toward commercial holographic communication with each party bringing specialized knowledge and technology to the table.

The Future of Holographic Communication

The integration of holographic calls into smartphone dialers by Telefónica, Ericsson, and MATSUKO represents a notable progression in telecommunications, suggesting a shift in how communication can evolve. As this technology develops, users can expect richer interaction experiences that combine immersive visuals with real-time audio. This innovation could enhance communication across various sectors, including education and healthcare.

However, challenges such as standardization, network reliability, and bandwidth requirements need to be addressed for broader adoption. Ensuring seamless user experiences and overcoming technical hurdles will be critical as these companies work toward commercializing holographic communication, which has the potential to redefine personal and professional interactions in the digital landscape.