Ookla Study in Manila: Carrier VoLTE Networks Prove to Outperform OTT Apps in Voice Quality and Reliability
An Ookla study conducted in Manila indicates that carrier-managed VoLTE networks provide superior voice quality and reliability compared to OTT applications like WhatsApp. The research highlights that VoLTE maintains HD audio even under network stress, whereas OTT apps suffer from degradation.
Why it matters
The findings underscore the ongoing competition between traditional telecommunications infrastructure and internet-based communication services.
MANILA, Philippines , July 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ookla's comprehensive controlled network test reveals that traditional mobile operator networks deliver a measurably superior voice experience compared to Over-the-Top (OTT) applications like WhatsApp, particularly in critical areas such as audio fidelity, weak signal resilience, and call reliability.
The study, which evaluated the networks of the Philippines' three major mobile operators— Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, and DITO Telecommunit y , demonstrates that carrier-managed VoLTE infrastructure remains the gold standard for consistent, high-quality communication, outperforming OTT voice services.
Operator Voice Del iver Consistent HD Audio, OTT Apps Only Offer Fair Quality
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