Have you ever been in one corner of a building or room where there’s weak or no cellular signal, but noticed that there’s Wi-Fi access coverage? In locations where cellular service is poor but is Wi-Fi capable, then Wi-Fi calling comes in handy and can solve spotty coverage problems. It leverages your smartphone to make and receive calls using a Wi-Fi network in places where the typical cellular connection is not available. It also enables you to send and receive SMS text messages through Wi-Fi and makes use of higher data speeds than the usual cellular data connection.
Wireless broadband services including the NBN Fibre Broadband Plans continue to grow in demand for both businesses and households. This 2016, Wi-Fi calling capability is fast becoming a must-have among carrier networks as the market competition in the Wi-Fi landscape has stepped-up for both mobile operators and cable companies that are aggressively competing to retain their subscribers.
Below are some of the expectations in the Wi-Fi world for this year: 
Delay in Wi-Fi calling capability for network carriers
Those who are waiting for the next generation Wi-Fi calling service would have to wait a little longer as support is slated to roll out sometime in the first quarter of 2016. Mobile operators are still in the process of testing the network infrastructure. Fortunately, operators that are using IP multimedia subsystems will proceed with their Wi-Fi calling and voice over LTE features this year.
Advancement in Wi-Fi calling for cable companies
Multiple system operators (MSO) of multiple cable television systems are currently eager to deploy Wi-Fi services due to their extensive hybrid fiber coax plants throughout their various coverage areas.  Smart Wi-Fi technology allows MSOs to deploy Wi-Fi networks in various communities. They can be used to roll-out wireless broadband footprint that enables subscribers to access the Internet while on the move. This has become a popular subscriber retention program and reduced customer churn rate in locations where Wi-Fi networks have been integrated.
Uberisation influence in the Wi-Fi industry
Ever since Uber revolutionised the car service sector with its ride-sharing technology platform that connects passengers with nearby drivers through their smartphones, introduced dynamic pricing in transportation, and enhanced the customer riding experience, the uberisation of everything became a buzzword. This innovation is also possible in the wireless industry. The wide availability of wireless broadband technology can also adjust the price of wireless connections according to the demand in certain locations at specific times. Google has taken this concept in a new direction. Google’s Project Fi program, in partnership with telecom carriers and hardware makers, aims to deliver fast and easy wireless experience. It gives consumers better coverage and connects calls to the fastest Wi-Fi network available.
Monetisation of Wi-Fi investment
Mobile data usage has dramatically surged among consumers. As a result, wireless carriers now rely on Wi-Fi hotspots as a better option for the delivery of high speed internet services for mobile gadgets. This demand opens up new revenue channels, drive up business value, and optimize network resources. There are many ways to gain a reasonable return on Wi-Fi investment for business effectiveness, end-user services, inter-carrier wholesale, and value-added services. Through sponsored access, for example, your business can reach different Wi-Fi connected consumers with advertising based on the user’s profile and current location. Customers can receive your app promotions for branding, loyalty rewards, and special offers that increase customer spend and loyalty.
Stay tuned to learn more useful tips on how to get the best possible connection at home. To know the best internet plans for your home, you can visit our Plan Guru or call sales on 13 22 88. Our friendly representatives will help you choose the best nbn® and how to connect.