A leaked memo from Verizon Wireless suggests the HTC Thunderbolt will support simultaneous voice and date over Verizon’s 3G network. Earlier this week, we saw a similar reference in a Louisville, KY training session with the HTC Thunderbolt. According to a participant, Verizon demonstrated simultaneous voice and data over EV-DO in the training. This feature was reportedly enabled by a new type of radio found in the Thunderbolt. This latest memo obtained by Android and Me confirms this observation.
According to the leaked memo, this functionality is present in the Thunderbolt but it is not operating up to Verizon’s standard for its network. As a result, this feature will not be advertised for the Thunderbolt. The memo includes the following lines about simultaneous voice and data:
There is functionality in the Thunderbolt that allows simultaneous voice and date whole on the VZW 3G network, however, we cannot promise the experience will be one that is consistent with our brand. As a result, do not reference this functionality as a benefit during conversations with customers.
This is not the first time that simultaneous voice and data was mentioned in the same breath as Verizon Wireless. An earlier statement by Verizon executive Brian Higgins confirmed that Verizon is working on providing this network features to its customers. The executive did not give a timeframe for the rollout of this simultaneous voice and data but prevailing rumors suggest it would debut on or near the launch of the iPhone 4.
Although not cited in these report, one technology behind simultaneous voice and data over 3G is known as Voice over Revision A or VoRA. The technology lets voice calls travel over an EV-DO connection in the same way as an HSPA network. This technology would require changes on the network side of Verizon’s infrastructure and possibly an update to a handset. It is possible that the HTC Thunderbolt is the first to debut with this new technology and Verizon needs some time to optimize it.
Needless to say, the implementation of this technology would give the carrier a big boost in its fight with AT&T over the upcoming iPhone 4 and other future smartphones. Many folks staying with AT&T point to simultaneous voice and data as one of the deciding factors that makes them stay with the GSM carrier. If Verizon does enable simultaneous voice and data, I wonder how many additional AT&T customers would jump ship to Big Red?
[Via Android and Me]