Joe Maring / Android Authority
Summary:
- With Android 17, calls made over OTT services like voice and video can be automatically routed through premium 5G network slices, ensuring seamless communication, even in crowded areas.
- This OS version utilizes Telecom Jetpack APIs to track ongoing calls by the app’s unique identifier, removing the need for developers to create custom solutions for network slicing.
- However, for this feature, telecom providers must offer the necessary 5G network slice, which may lead to additional charges.
Recently, Google launched Android 17 for Pixel users. Along with various enhancements like App Bubbles and Screen Reactions, a significant but understated feature pertains to network capabilities. This update allows for automated routing of voice and video calls over 5G network slices, which is promising for those using apps like WhatsApp or Zoom on mobile data.
Understanding 5G Network Slicing
5G network slicing is a crucial feature that enables carriers to create multiple isolated virtual networks from a single 5G infrastructure. This approach means different types of internet traffic can receive tailored resources, rather than being treated uniformly. It allows service providers to dedicate lanes for specific needs, like ultra-low latency for certain applications on their 5G Standalone networks.
In the United States, T-Mobile has developed a specialized video calling slice to enhance mobile applications providing OTT video conferencing. Developers interested in trialing this service can add support to their apps to manage and assess the performance of traffic routed through this setup. Similarly, Verizon offers its own video calling slice, and all major carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T have slices designed for public safety communications.
Advancements in 5G Network Slicing on Android
Over the last few years, Google has progressively worked on integrating 5G network slicing features within Android. Initial support appeared in Android 12, although it was limited to enterprise work profiles. The following version, Android 13, introduced per-app routing capabilities for IT administrators, but these features were still geared toward business users.
Android 14 (QPR 1) further advanced this with a 5G slicing upsell feature that enables carriers to provide advanced network functionalities, primarily focusing on lower latency. However, this mandated developers to make significant alterations in their applications to facilitate carrier upselling, making it a challenging user experience.
This created a situation where app developers faced significant challenges in implementing necessary changes and disrupted user experiences by interrupting for additional purchase flows from carriers.
Auto-Routing Comes with Android 17
Android 17 simplifies access to 5G network slicing through new auto-routing capabilities for OTT voice and video calls over premium networks. According to Google, this enhancement allows the system to automatically direct voice and video call traffic to a dedicated, faster 5G slice without developers needing to modify their app’s networking framework.
The Android platform leverages existing Telecom Jetpack APIs utilized by OTT applications to determine when voice or video calls commence and conclude. During these calls, the operating system recognizes the app by its unique ID and, if a premium connection is available, routes the necessary traffic accordingly. Upon ending the call, the system resets the traffic routing back to the normal network for other types of data usage.
This platform-level solution minimizes the workload for developers and provides a smooth user experience, as long as they use the Telecom Jetpack API, benefiting both app creators and users.
This could also open up new monetization pathways for carriers, potentially increasing the use of network slices and fostering a favorable cycle for service enhancement.
For Pixel users on compatible networks with plans supporting these premium slices, the call-routing feature from Android 17 will work effortlessly in the background. In busy environments, such as stadiums or concerts, while general data speeds may decline, VoIP calls could remain stable and clear due to this dedicated fast track.
As Android 17 becomes available on more devices, it’s anticipated that carriers will take advantage of these new tools to enhance their service offerings.
Thank you for being part of our community.
