AT&T customers in the US who have been patiently waiting to be able to use Apple’s FaceTime service over AT&T’s cellular network will be pleased to learn that AT&T has finally started rolling out support for Apple’s FaceTime service across all its network.
FaceTime launched with the release of iOS 6, but AT&T limited access to FaceTime to those customers with a Mobile Share plan subscribers and LTE device owners with a tiered plan.
Initial Rollout and Limitations
After starting the rollout of the service back in November 2012, during May of this year AT&T announced that by the end of this year all their iOS users would be able to use the Apple FaceTime service across their cellular network and it now appears they are sticking to their word. Initially, the rollout was limited to specific plans and devices, which left many customers frustrated. Only those with a Mobile Share plan or an LTE device with a tiered data plan could access FaceTime over cellular. This limitation was seen as a significant drawback for many users who wanted the flexibility to use FaceTime without being tethered to a Wi-Fi network.
Nationwide Rollout and Performance
The AppleInsider website explains a little more about the rollout of the FaceTime support across AT&T’s cellular network:
“So far, activation of the service has been verified in parts of New York, Maryland, Georgia, Louisiana, California and Hawaii. Voice and video quality is nearly on a par with the Wi-Fi implementation of the service, suggesting AT&T is not throttling those subscribers who choose to use the feature while on the go.”
This nationwide rollout marks a significant milestone for AT&T and its customers. The ability to use FaceTime over cellular networks means that users can now make video calls from virtually anywhere, without the need for a Wi-Fi connection. This is particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently or live in areas with limited Wi-Fi availability.
Moreover, the performance of FaceTime over AT&T’s cellular network has been reported to be nearly as good as its Wi-Fi counterpart. This suggests that AT&T has invested in ensuring that their network can handle the additional load without compromising on quality. Users have reported clear voice and video quality, making it a viable option for both personal and professional communication.
Implications for Users and the Future
The rollout of FaceTime over cellular networks by AT&T is not just a technical upgrade; it has broader implications for how people communicate. For instance, it opens up new possibilities for remote work and telecommuting. Employees can now participate in video conferences from their mobile devices, regardless of their location. This flexibility can lead to increased productivity and better work-life balance.
Additionally, this move by AT&T could set a precedent for other carriers to follow. As more people rely on mobile devices for their communication needs, the demand for high-quality video calling services is likely to grow. By offering FaceTime over cellular, AT&T is positioning itself as a forward-thinking carrier that prioritizes customer needs.
The rollout of FaceTime over AT&T’s cellular network is a welcome development for many iOS users. It offers greater flexibility, improved performance, and opens up new possibilities for communication. As AT&T continues to expand its network capabilities, customers can look forward to even more enhancements in the future.
Source: TUAW : AppleInsider
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.