Dear Partners, Customers, and Friends, As we gather to celebrate the holiday season, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what has truly been an extraordinary year for SmartViser. 2025 has been a year marked by growth, innovation, and strong collaboration. We have continued to place sustainability at the heart of our mission, supporting our customers and laboratories in their successful transition to the new EU Energy Labeling regulation that came into force last June. Innovation has remained a key driver for SmartViser. Our R&D teams have once again demonstrated their excellence with the launch of a new product line focused on network monitoring using smartphone devices. This year saw the introduction of Viser Tempo , our active probing solution for foreground network monitoring, and Viser Mateo , our passive probing solution enabling background network monitoring. These solutions have already been successfully deployed in private and mission-critical network environments, and we look forward to accelerating their growth further in 2026. We also continued to expand our ecosystem and global presence. The new year will begin with our participation at CES in Las Vegas, starting January 6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), West Hall, Booth #6267, proudly hosted by our partner Anritsu. During CES, we will showcase end-to-end connectivity testing demonstrations, including an integrated testing environment combining SmartViser signaling and protocol monitoring solutions. These demos will be used to assess communication quality for connected vehicles, verifying network KPIs and validating Vehicle-to-Network (V2N) connectivity. This collaboration highlights how SmartViser and Anritsu are shaping the future of connected mobility through advanced test automation and real-time network quality insights. Our event journey will continue in February at the Tour de Ports de France in Toulon, at L’Eautel Toulon Port, followed by Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in March. We look forward to sharing our latest innovations across mobile network testing, mission-critical and private networks, automotive connectivity, non-terrestrial networks, and more. As we close the year, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to these achievements—our talented teams, trusted partners, and loyal customers. Your commitment and collaboration are the foundation of our success. Let us carry this momentum forward into the coming year, where I am confident even greater opportunities await us. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Warm regards, Gilles Ricordel CEO, SmartViser

A deep dive into the status, advantages, and challenges of VoNR — and how 5G voice performs in real-world tests. 5G has largely been adopted as a “data network” — the early 5G deployment modes were Non-Standalone (NSA), which piggyback on 4G LTE infrastructure for control plane and fall back to LTE (or earlier) for voice calls. But as operators roll out 5G Standalone (SA) cores and more complete 5G networks, the next frontier is VoNR  — Voice over New Radio — i.e. native voice calls over 5G without relying on legacy networks. What is VoNR (Voice over New Radio)? VoNR (sometimes called “5G Calling,” “Voice over 5G Standalone,” or simply Vo5G) refers to the capability to carry voice (and SMS/other communication services) entirely over a 5G network (i.e. 5G RAN + 5G core + IMS) without having to fall back to 4G/3G for voice. In the 3GPP and GSMA frameworks, VoNR is a natural evolution from VoLTE: the voice is delivered over an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) but using 5G radio. In practice, for VoNR to work, several prerequisites must be in place:  5G Standalone (SA) deployment (i.e., decoupled from LTE)  Radio coverage and capacity across frequency bands, especially in lower bands for broad coverage.  Devices (smartphones, modules) with firmware and hardware support for VoNR  Operator network support on IMS, radio, signaling, fallback mechanisms, etc. Because many existing 5G deployments are still NSA or mix 4G/5G, full VoNR readiness is a multi-phase transition. Current Status & Deployment (Mid-2025) Here’s a snapshot of where VoNR stands today : Global progress According to GSA’s “Global Progress to Voice over New Radio” report (October 2021), of many operators globally:  Some are evaluating or trialing VoNR  A smaller number are planning deployment  Only a few have soft-launched or deployed VoNR in a limited capacity Many operators are still relying on intermediate fallback solutions such as EPS Fallback (EPS-FB)  or hybrid mode, until coverage and maturity of 5G SA is adequate. Some regions with more advanced 5G SA deployment (e.g. parts of China, USA, and Singapore) have begun rolling out VoNR or testing it in live networks. UK / Europe In the UK, operators such as EE have already made public moves toward enabling VoNR / “5G Calling.” EE, for example, has set up a “5G+” branded network and provides instructions for enabling VoNR (5G Calling) on compatible devices. EE reportedly enabled “VoNR or 5G Calling” as of 6 June 2025 for devices that meet certain criteria (SIM, handset, plan) in areas with 5G+ coverage. However, coverage is still limited and selective; not all geographic areas or devices are yet supported, but an initial list can be found here. In Europe more broadly, some operators in Germany, for instance, Vodafone, have activated VoNR in certain cities. United States In the United States, T-Mobile US  was the first carrier to launch commercial Voice over New Radio (VoNR) services back in June 2022, marking a significant milestone in 5G evolution. Since then, T-Mobile has expanded VoNR availability across multiple cities — including New York, Seattle, Cincinnati, and New Orleans — while continuing to strengthen its 5G Standalone (SA) core capabilities. DISH Wireless (Boost)  has positioned itself as a VoNR leader, claiming coverage of more than 200 million POPs with native 5G voice supported across its nationwide network. AT&T  followed by announcing nationwide 5G SA in October 2025, progressively migrating customers onto the new core “in select areas every day.” This rollout lays the groundwork for AT&T to enable VoNR on a broader scale, though its FirstNet public safety network has yet to transition to SA. Meanwhile, Verizon  continues building out its 5G SA infrastructure — already deploying public-safety network slicing nationwide — and has successfully demonstrated VoNR sessions in partnership with Ericsson and MediaTek, including RedCap device testing. Although Verizon has not yet detailed commercial VoNR availability, its infrastructure progress indicates readiness for eventual deployment. Canada In Canada, Bell  became one of the first to activate VoNR for iPhone users in select areas such as the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as of August 2025. TELUS  has also gone live with 5G Standalone in parts of Western Canada, with early users reporting VoNR availability in limited regions. Rogers , while heavily promoting 5G-Advanced features and continued SA expansion, has been less vocal about its VoNR deployment status. Together, these rollouts signal that North America is entering the next phase of 5G voice maturity, with the U.S. leading on commercial scale and Canada steadily following suit. So, while VoNR is no longer just a concept, it is still in an early/transition stage — with selective deployment, limited coverage, and device constraints. Advantages & Promised Benefits of VoNR VoNR brings several compelling advantages compared to legacy voice mechanisms (CS fallback, VoLTE, etc.). Some of them overlap with VoLTE’s improvements over 2G/3G, but VoNR can push further due to 5G’s capabilities. Improved user experience & voice quality Use of modern codecs (e.g. EVS, Adaptive Multi-Rate Wideband) allows high-definition (HD) or even “super HD” voice, with better clarity, lower distortion, and improved robustness under poor radio conditions. Faster call setup times (reduced latency in signaling) thanks to more direct paths in 5G network functions. The ability to stay entirely on 5G: a VoNR call does not force a fallback to 4G or older. This is especially beneficial when there’s background data or simultaneous usage of data services (maps, messaging, etc.) during calls. Network and architectural benefits Eventually, operators can phase out older technologies (2G/3G) more cleanly, reducing operational costs and complexity of maintaining aging networks. VoNR is an essential step in that migration. Learn more about the status of the network Sunsetting Simplification: When voice, data, messaging, and other services all run over a unified 5G/IMS infrastructure, there is less need for interworking between separate legacy systems, potentially reducing integration overhead. Better utilization of spectrum and radio resources: voice traffic in VoNR can benefit from 5G’s scheduling, beamforming, interference management, and dynamic allocation, making voice more efficient. Enhanced opportunities for value-added services: Because voice runs in the same domain as data, more tightly integrated features (video calling, conferencing, real-time collaboration, augmented reality voice + data combining) are easier to implement. For the operator, VoNR supports “future-proofing” and eventual decommissioning of legacy systems. Challenges, Risks & Limitations of VoNR The path to widespread VoNR deployment is not trivial. Below are key hurdles, some technical, some operational/business, and some strategic. Technical & engineering challenges Coverage & propagation constraints   To deliver voice everywhere, the 5G network must provide broad coverage (especially in rural / indoor / edge areas). Lower frequency bands (e.g. < 1 GHz) are required for deep coverage, but deployment and spectrum availability may lag.  In areas where 5G is weak or intermittent, fallback to 4G/VoLTE or earlier is still required. Ensuring seamless and reliable handover is non-trivial. Interworking and handover complexity   VoNR must interwork with VoLTE, 2G/3G (while they still exist), and WiFi/VoWiFi as needed. Seamless handovers between these domains (while maintaining call continuity) is difficult. Dual connectivity (5G + LTE) and fallback mechanisms need careful design to avoid drops or service loss. Device and chipset support   - Not all smartphones currently on the market support VoNR (or support it fully). Some require firmware updates or hardware that meets certain 5G SA and IMS requirements.  Power consumption: use of 5G for voice may increase battery use in certain bands or conditions (especially if radios frequently switch).   Ensuring backward compatibility with non-VoNR devices in the same network is a burden. IMS, signaling, and core network upgrades   Operators need to upgrade their IMS infrastructure, ensure compatibility with new 5G core network functions, support quality control, and handle new interfaces (e.g. “N5” / HTTP/2 interfaces as optional enhancements). Ensuring end-to-end QoS (quality of service) and stability for voice flows over 5G is more demanding (because voice is latency-sensitive).  More stringent real-time performance, monitoring and optimization are needed. Latency, jitter, and reliability under mobility / varying load   5G networks, especially early deployments, may have variable performance across cell edges, mobility, or under congestion. Maintaining high voice quality in such dynamics is challenging.  Packet loss, delay, and jitter can degrade voice unless well mitigated. How Smartviser Supports the 5G and VoNR Journey Implementing 5G Standalone (SA) and Voice over New Radio (VoNR) comes with many challenges — from testing coverage to ensuring voice quality. Smartviser helps operators, device makers, and chipset vendors address these challenges efficiently through its Viser test automation platform. With Smartviser, you can: Automate testing  across multiple technologies — 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi, and VoWiFi — to validate coverage and connectivity. Verify seamless handovers and interworking  between 5G and legacy networks (VoLTE, EPS fallback) to prevent call drops or service loss. Test devices and chipsets  to confirm full compatibility with VoNR standards — crucial for smartphone manufacturers and network operators. Measure and optimize power consumption , ensuring new 5G devices manage battery life effectively under VoNR operation. Assess voice quality and user experience  using reliable metrics like MOS and POLQA to guarantee crystal-clear voice calls. Monitor Quality of Experience (QoE) and Quality of Service (QoS)  end-to-end to maintain consistent network performance. Accelerate deployment  by automating repetitive testing tasks, reducing time to market, and ensuring higher reliability. See the Results in Action To demonstrate how VoNR performs in real-world conditions, Smartviser put the Xiaomi 15 5G through a series of controlled field tests using its Viser automation platform. These tests compared VoNR and VoLTE performance across live networks, measuring: MOS voice quality and clarity Call setup time Handover performance between 5G and LTE The results reveal how 5G Standalone and VoNR deliver measurable improvements in user experience — and where further optimization is still needed. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Mobile Network operators shutting down 3G and in some cases, 2G has been a long time coming. Operators across the world have either already shut down their 2G and 3G or are planning to do so in the near future. Up until now, we had several new technologies co-existing with legacy technologies, but it is becoming more complex for Carriers to manage and manufacturers to support. According to GSAs latest report July 2025 278 operators in 83 countries and territories have completed, planned, or are in the process of switching off their 2G and 3G networks an increase from 77 countries in December 2024. 2G networks : A total of 131 operators in 65 countries  have completed or scheduled closures (up from 128 operators in 63 countries). Within this group: 51 operators in 29 countries  have fully shut down 2G. 66 operators in 40 countries  have closures planned. 14 operators in 8 countries  are actively phasing out 2G. 3G networks : 147 operators in 62 countries  are either finished, planning, or currently switching off services. This includes: 78 operators in 40 countries  with completed closures. 50 operators in 32 countries  with switch-offs planned. 19 operators in 15 countries  mid-process. Some shutdowns are government-driven, such as the UK’s mandate to retire 2G by 2033. Others are operator group-led; for example, Orange has set a 2030 deadline for shutting down 2G and 3G in Europe, though the timeline may differ across its markets. Europe seems to lead in the number of switch-offs, followed by Asia and North America, although its share has decreased since December 2023. As legacy technologies are sunset operators continue with their upgrades to both 4G and 5G technology. According to GSA 31.5% will be upgrading to LTE only; 4.6% will be moving to 5G, 5.3% to 3G and LTE; and 1.5% will be upgrading to 3G, 4G, and 5G. Source: 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association Global Picture for 2G Source 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association Global Picture for 3G Source 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association In Europe , 3G is expected to be switched off before 2G. Around 19 operators are planning to switch off their 3G Network by 2025 and around eight operators are planning to switch off their 2G network by 2025. June 2021 brought the shutdown of 3G in two operators in Germany Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom. Telefonica is also expected to shut down 3G by the end of 2021. In other countries, Telia will look to close 3G in all their countries between 2022 and 2025 and EE will be the first UK network to announce the shutdown of 3G. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. For Asia , 2G in countries like Japan was phased out a long time ago. The trend will continue with other countries and operators. A detailed breakdown is available. The Americas, especially the US is shutting down 2G networks on an accelerated scale. 3G networks will be shut down by all main operators by 2022. Around 15 operators in 7 countries have announced the closure of 2G by the end of 2025. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. For Oceania , 2G is almost phased out. In Australia, all 3 operators have shut down their 2G by the end of 2018 and 3G is on the way with Telstra the only one announcing a timeline for the end of 2024. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. Africa i s the only region where no 2G or 3G shutdowns have been announced so far but it will be part of future planning once newer technologies penetrate more. A detailed breakdown is available. What 2G/ 3G shutdowns will mean for end-users ? This will force/encourage people to upgrade their phones to 4G. Many Operators seem to suggest that 2G in Europe will be around until 2030 and this is mainly due to implications of the M2M and IoT applications. In particular, the EU-mandated eCall, where long term agreements are in place, will need to be supported by the 2G technology before the work towards migration to IMS voice is fully completed. There are several drivers behind this change. Reuse of frequencies for new technology deployments like 4G and 5G. Most 2G use 850, 900, 1,800 or 1,900 MHz frequency bands. The sub-1 GHz bands, are very valuable due to their propagation characteristics, especially delivering greater coverage and in-building penetration. Reduce costs and effort in maintaining legacy radio networks Lower the energy consumption of the network. Vodafone New Zealand has announced back in 2019 that they are expecting around 10% savings in power consumption from migrating away from 2G and 3G technologies. Simplify the network operation This 2G and 3G network closure change are bringing several challenges to device manufacturers, Carriers/Mobile Network Operators and Mobile Virtual Network Operators. What will this mean for Smartphone Manufacturers? IMS (VoLTE & VoWiFi) will need to now be enabled by default on all devices. This will add additional testing requirements to ensure smooth interoperability on all networks to enable end-users to benefit from the latest technology and not rely on legacy technology. Testing on Roaming conditions should also be taken into account to ensure end-users Quality of Experience when using data or voice services. What will this mean for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)? The shutdown of 2G and 3G networks presents both strategic opportunities and operational challenges for MNOs. On one hand, retiring legacy technologies will enable operators to reduce operational and maintenance costs, streamline spectrum use, and reallocate valuable frequency bands to more efficient 4G and 5G networks. This transition supports improved data speeds, lower latency, and future-ready network architectures. However, these benefits come with important caveats. Operators must ensure robust 4G VoLTE coverage and sufficient network capacity before fully decommissioning 3G, as gaps in VoLTE availability could force users to fall back on 2G voice, leading to poor call quality and degraded customer experience. In areas where 2G is also being retired, this could result in service disruption, dropped calls, or loss of connectivity, ultimately damaging customer trust and brand loyalty. To mitigate these risks, MNOs should: Expand IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) capabilities to guarantee consistent VoLTE and VoWiFi performance. Conduct extensive testing across both domestic and roaming scenarios. Communicate proactively with customers about device compatibility and network changes. Maintain Quality of Service (QoS) during and after the transition through careful planning and monitoring. Ultimately, successful network sunsets depend on ensuring continuity of voice services, managing user migration, and investing in technologies that provide a seamless customer experience. What will this mean for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)? MVNOs face an even steeper challenge as 2G and 3G shutdowns accelerate globally. Without direct control over network infrastructure, MVNOs are highly dependent on host operators’ migration timelines and technical readiness. The example of Dish’s 2021 warning about disruptions from T-Mobile’s CDMA network shutdown illustrates the significant business risks posed by abrupt legacy network closures. To remain competitive, MVNOs must: Upgrade network agreements with host MNOs to ensure continued access to VoLTE and VoWiFi services. Deploy IMS-enabled SIMs and compatible devices, ensuring full interoperability across home and roaming networks. Educate customers on device upgrades and service transitions to minimize churn. Explore new service models (e.g., digital-first or 5G MVNOs) that leverage the improved capabilities of modern networks. Failure to adapt could lead to service degradation, lost customers, and reputational harm, especially in markets where legacy networks have supported key customer segments (e.g., IoT or low-cost prepaid users). In summary, while the 2G/3G shutdowns mark an important milestone in network modernization, both MNOs and MVNOs must strategically manage the migration to protect user experience, brand equity, and long-term competitiveness. Countries/Territories with VoLTE Service Status of European Network 2G/3G Shutdowns C ​Country Network Operator 2G 3G Albania Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2022 Albania One Albania By end 2025 Austria A1 ​ By end 2025 Austria T-Mobile ​ Closed 2024 Austria Drei By end 2025 ​Belgium Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 Belgium Proximus Closed 2024 Belgium Telenet ​ Closed 2024 Bulgaria A1 ​By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Croatia Hrvaski Telecom ​ By end 2025 Croatia A1 By end 2025 Czech Republic T-Mobile By end 2025 Closed 2021 Czech Republic Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2021 Czech Republic O2 By end 2028 Closed 2021 Denmark Telenor By end 2025 Closed 2023 Denmark Hi3G No Service By the end 2025 Denmark Norlys Closed 2023 Denmark TDC ​ Closed 2023 Estonia Telia By end 2029 Closed 2023 Estonia Elisa ​ Closed 2024 Finland Elisa ​By end 2029 Closed 2023 Finland Telia By end 2029 Closed 2023 Finland DNA By end 2029 Closed 2023 France Orange By end 2026 By end 2028 France SFR By end 2026 ​By end 2028 France Bouygues Telecom ​By end 2026 By end 2029 Country Network Operator 2G 3G Germany Vodafone By end 2030 Closed 2021 Germany Telefonica ​ Closed 2021 Germany Deutsche Telekom ​By end 2028 Closed Jun 2021 Greece Nova Closed 2023 Greece Cosmote ​By end 2025 Closed 2021 Greece Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2023 Hungary Magyar Telecom Closed 2022 Hungary One By end 2025 Closed 2023 Ireland Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2024 Ireland Three ​By end 2025 By end 2025 Italy TIM ​By end 2029 Closed 2022 Italy Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2021 Italy Wind By end 2025 Latvia Latvijas Mobilais Telefons ​By end 2025 By end 2025 Latvia Tele2 By end 2025 By end 2025 Latvia Telia ​By end 2025 Closed 2022 Latvia Bite By end 2025 By end 2026 Lithuania Telia By end 2025 Closed 2022 Lithuania Bite By end 2028 By end 2025 Lithuania Tele2 By end 2025 Luxembourg Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 Luxembourg Post ​By end 2027 Closed 2022 Malta Go By end 2030 Malta EPIC By end 2025 ​Closed 2024 Country Network Operator 2G 3G ​Netherlands ​KPN By end 2027 Closed Mar 2022 Netherlands Vodafone By end 2025 Closed Feb 2020 Netherlands Odido By end 2025 By end 2026 Norway Telenor By end 2027 Closed 2021 Norway Telia By end 2025 Closed Dec 2021 Poland T-Mobile By end 2030 Closed 2023 Poland Orange By end 2023 By end 2025 ​Portugal Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2024 Portugal NOS Closed 2024 ​Romania Vodafone By end 2025 ​Closed 2023 ​Russia Tele2 ​ By end 2025 ​Slovakia Telekom ​ Closed 2023 Slovakia Orange By end 2030 Closed 2023 Spain Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 ​Spain Telefonica ​By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Spain Vodafone By end 2025 ​By end 2025 ​​Sweden Tele2 By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Sweden Telia By end 2027 By end 2025 ​Sweden Telenor By end 2025 By end 2025 Switzerland Sunrise By end 2023 By end 2025 ​Switzerland Swisscom Closed 2021 By end 2025 Switzerland Salt Closed 2022 ​ Country Network Operator 2G 3G United Kingdom EE By 2033 Closed 2024 United Kingdom Vodafone By end 2030 Closed 2024 United Kingdom 3 - Closed 2024 United Kingdom O2 By end 2033 By end 2025 Status of North America Network 2G/3G Shutdowns Country Network Operator 2G 3G US AT&T Closed in 2017 Closed 2022 US Sprint Closed 2021 Closed 2022 US T-Mobile Closed 2025 Closed 2022 US Verizon Closed 2020 Closed 2022 Canada Rogers Closed 2021 ​By end 2025 Canada SaskTel Closed 2017 ​ Canada Telus Closed 2017 By end 2025 Canada Bell Closed 2019 By end 2025 Status of Oceania Network 2G/3G Shutdowns Country Network Operator 2G 3G Australia Telstra Closed 2017 Closed 2024 Australia Optus Closed 2017 Closed 2024 ​Australia Vodafone Closed 2018 ​Closed 2024 New Zealand Vodafone By end 2025 ​By end 2025 New Zealand Two Degrees Network ​Closed 2018 Closed 2018 New Zealand Spark Closed 2017 By end 2026 Please note that data has been collected during August 2025 from various sources and is subject to change based on each Mobile Network O perator's schedule and timelines. 3G Al How can SmartViser Help? The widespread shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, combined with the rapid deployment of 5G and emerging technologies, presents a major challenge for the entire telecommunications ecosystem  — including Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), device manufacturers, MVNOs, regulators, and technology partners . Ensuring service continuity, maintaining quality of experience, and validating device and network interoperability across evolving standards are critical yet complex tasks. SmartViser  can help organizations navigate these challenges through its test automation and managed test service offerings , enabling faster, more reliable validation of network performance, voice and data services, and user experience across multiple technologies and markets. OPTION 1 - Test Automation Empower your team with the Test Automation Solution viSer to ensure superior Quality of Service QoS and Quality of Experience QoE. Test all key functions like VoLTE, VoWiFi, Data throughput, Audio MOS , Battery performance etc in live network or roaming conditions: OPTION 2 - Test Services Testing as a Service. Send us your devices in one or multiple locations across Europe. You no longer need to arrange and schedule travel for your staff. We can propose Network Test interoperability and test VoLTE/VoWiFi across any network in Europe. Our team of expert Test Engineers will provide logs to help the speedy resolution of issues and the test automation viSer will ensure greater testing scope in shorter times. Join our SmartViser Mailing List. Stay up-to-date with all the latest SmartViser testing, Performance Results and Reports. Just Subscribe to get interesting content to your inbox. Do you want to know more? Contact us for a Free Trial of viSer Test Automation Please message us to arrange a chat on how test automation or our test services can help you Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding an MBA from Henley Business School brings a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee , responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging a customer-centric culture. The main mission is to help organizations to create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

5G Smartphones and the Heat Challenge — 2025 Update A few years ago, we investigated what was an early trend of devices overheating when using 5G and wrote a report about this trend. Smartviser’s original 2022 study demonstrated that first‑generation 5G smartphones could exceed critical thermal thresholds in fewer than twenty minutes of continuous high‑throughput operation, even within a climate‑controlled environment. Since that initial investigation, both cellular networks and handset platforms have evolved substantially. In response to these developments, the Smartviser team undertook an expanded assessment campaign in 2025, employing the enhanced viSer Neo  automation and Studio Analytics suite to conduct controlled tests on current flagship and mid‑tier devices. The objectives of the campaign were: To quantify the extent to which sustained 5G utilisation continues to precipitate device overheating or performance throttling in commercially available smartphones. To evaluate the effectiveness of the thermal‑mitigation measures now incorporated into contemporary chipsets, mechanical designs, and operating‑system frameworks. Looking Back: What We Learnt in 2022 In our 2022 post “Smartphones – Can They Handle the Heat of 5G?”  we explored the first wave of 5G‑induced thermal issues. Overheating isn’t new, but 5G accelerates it. Even in an air‑conditioned 16 °C lab with excellent 5G coverage, several handsets overheated within 20 minutes of continuous 5G data transfer. Key Findings: Three smartphone Overheating Groups Identified Group 1: Remained stable No overheating occurred. Devices maintained data transfer with no performance degradation. Group 2: Triggered overheating warnings Reached 48°C in 20 minutes. Devices displayed overheating warnings and showed visible performance drops. viSer Studio Analytics provided visual KPI insights showing temperature spikes in parallel with data throughput. Group 3: Throttled performance or downgraded from 5G to 4G  to manage temperature Overheated after ~20 minutes. Devices automatically: Closed background apps. Switched from 5G to 4G to cool down. With rapid advances in both 5G infrastructure and device technology, we decided it was time to revisit the topic. 5G in 2025: A Maturity Story Across the globe, 5G networks have entered a mature phase . Consistent mid-band spectrum deployment, improvements in backhaul, and smarter network management have led to significantly faster and more stable connections—especially in cities and major transport corridors. 🌍 Average 5G Download Speeds (2025) Region Country Average 5G Download Speed Europe France 270 Mbps Germany 310 Mbps UK 320 Mbps Spain 290 Mbps Italy 250 Mbps Sweden 380 Mbps North America USA 410 Mbps (urban areas) Canada 360 Mbps Asia-Pacific South Korea 520 Mbps (nationwide) Japan 450 Mbps China 460 Mbps (Tier 1 cities) India 310 Mbps (major metros) These speeds are not only faster but more consistent, thanks to widespread mid-band deployments and mmWave trials in dense urban zones. But higher throughput can still mean higher thermal pressure—so how are modern smartphones coping? SmartViser Testing: 2025 Results In our latest 2025 study, we observed a notable shift in device behavior compared to our 2022 findings. While extreme overheating leading to shutdowns or fallback to 4G was common three years ago, that is no longer the norm. Most smartphones we tested this year demonstrated smarter, more nuanced heat mitigation techniques—likely the result of tighter integration between chipset, OS, and thermal management algorithms. That said, a few devices still triggered high-temperature warnings, effectively limiting user interaction until the temperature dropped. These were generally budget or mid-tier models lacking advanced cooling or thermal governance. However, the standout trend in our 2025 results was the implementation of intelligent frequency throttling. Here’s an example from our testing: A 5G smartphone was part of a drive test, performing continuous web browsing over a 1-hour session . 📱 Observations from drive test with web browsing: Network status:  The device remained on 5G for 98%  of the test and only briefly fell back to LTE (2%). Performance:  Web loading times were stable throughout  the test. Thermal response:  As device temperature rose, it began throttling certain frequency bands —specifically in the uplink and mid-band spectrum—reducing RF power load. Outcome:  This successfully prevented further temperature increases  without impacting the user experience. SmartViser Analytics Studio PS RAT Graph and Battery Temperature SmartViser Analytics Studio Web Browsing Loading Time and CPU Frequencies This kind of adaptive thermal response  demonstrates the growing sophistication in smartphone design, where thermal limits are respected without compromising performance . We see this as a major step forward, and an indication that 5G smartphones in 2025 are no longer limited by the heat risks that once threatened the user experience. Intensive Testing: Gaming Under Pressure Over the course of this year’s study, we conducted over 250 hours of testing using a wide range of smartphones and test scenarios—progressively increasing in complexity to explore the limits of thermal endurance and system stability. One of the most demanding scenarios was intensive online gaming over a 5G network, with each session lasting up to 3 hours. 🎮 Gaming Test Key Findings: All devices eventually switched from 5G to 4G at some point during the session. Temperatures ranged from 40°C to 48°C, depending on the device, chipset, and cooling system. We observed a range of thermal mitigation strategies: Multi-step throttling: Some smartphones gradually reduced CPU/GPU load across several stages as temperature rose. Network fallback: Rather than allowing the device to overheat, all models opted to switch to 4G at higher thermal thresholds. Background process management: Several devices aggressively limited non-essential background apps or services to preserve stability. SmartViser Analytics Studio PS RAT and temperature graph These results confirm that while heat remains a factor under prolonged, intensive use , manufacturers have clearly improved their approach. Instead of a single thermal trigger, most modern smartphones intelligently manage performance in layers , prioritising both device protection  and user experience . Extreme Stress Testing: 5G Downloads at Full Throttle To push the boundaries even further, we conducted a series of super-intensive tests focused on sustained high-volume downloads over 5G. These sessions were designed to simulate heavy real-world scenarios such as bulk file transfers, high-resolution media downloads, and software updates over 5G, non-stop. 📉 Observations from Extreme Download Tests: After just 26 minutes of continuous operation, some models displayed high-temperature warning messages. In the most severe cases, devices are ultimately powered off entirely due to reaching critical thermal thresholds exceeding 50°C. Across different models, we observed: Multi-step thermal throttling to reduce performance gradually Network fallback mechanisms switching from 5G to LTE Final shutdown as a last-resort safety measure SmartViser Analytics Studio CPU Frequency and Throughput DL Graph SmartViser Analytics Studio Battery Temperature and Throughput upload graph This scenario, while not typical for most users , is a vital edge case  for manufacturers to test. It highlights how certain designs may still fail under extreme pressure , risking service disruption and poor user experience  if not properly addressed during the development cycle. Conclusion: 2025 – A Smarter Approach to Heat Our extensive 2025 testing confirms what the industry has been aiming for: smartphones have come a long way since the early 5G overheating concerns of 2022 . While heat management remains a key challenge—especially during extreme use cases— most modern devices now integrate intelligent and layered thermal mitigation strategies . ✅ We observed: Proactive throttling  of frequencies and processing power Seamless fallback to 4G  when thresholds were crossed Stable user experience  during standard and moderately heavy use Clear thermal control strategies  even under intense load like gaming and downloads However, our extreme stress tests showed that some devices still failed under prolonged heavy load, with shutdowns occurring beyond 50°C. These edge cases highlight that comprehensive thermal testing remains essential, especially early in product development when design and software-level mitigations can still be refined. Manufacturers must balance performance, battery life, and user safety—and the best-performing devices in our testing did so with minimal compromise to usability. As 5G-Advanced and new use cases (like XR, AI processing, and cloud gaming) push devices even harder, heat will continue to be a defining factor in mobile innovation. At SmartViser, we remain committed to helping manufacturers and network providers test smarter, earlier, and deeper with our viSer test automation suite—ensuring better performance, improved safety, and superior user experiences. All test scenarios in this study were executed using viSer Neo , SmartViser’s advanced test automation solution. One of viSer Neo’s key advantages is its ability to run directly on commercial Android devices without requiring any custom firmware or rooting , ensuring that testing conditions reflect real-world user behavior as closely as possible . All tests were conducted in France using local 5G networks , and identical scenarios were applied across multiple Android smartphones to maintain consistency and comparability. viSer Neo captures over 100 KPIs  in every session, and when combined with Analytics Studio , results can be visualised through interactive dashboards offering a wide range of charts, graphs, maps, pie charts , and granular drill-down views —enabling detailed and flexible analysis tailored to specific insights. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

[Rennes, 04/07/2025] – SmartViser, a leading provider of automated testing solutions, is proud to announce its partnership with the VDE Institute, a globally recognized leader in testing and certification services. Through the adoption of SmartViser’s Viser Test Automation, VDE Institute is expanding its portfolio to include Energy Labelling Testing for smartphones and tablets, aligning with the new European energy efficiency regulations set to become mandatory since June 2025. The new regulation will require smartphones and tablets sold in the European market to display energy labels, ensuring transparency for consumers and promoting energy efficiency. VDE Institute’s adoption of Viser Test Automation enables the delivery of precise, automated energy testing, empowering manufacturers to meet these requirements efficiently and on time. “Manufacturers must act now to ensure compliance with the regulations and secure their market access,” emphasizes Marcell Klinkert from the VDE Institute. To support companies with efficient and reliable energy consumption labeling tests and ensure that products meet the required energy efficiency standards, the VDE Institute has initiated a collaboration with SmartViser, a provider of automated testing solutions in the telecommunications sector. “With Viser Test Automation, we now offer an optimized, automated approach to testing the energy efficiency labeling of smartphones and tablets,” explains Marcell Klinkert from the VDE Institute. This enables the VDE Institute to perform precise, automated energy tests that allow manufacturers to meet the new requirements on schedule. Gilles Ricordel CEO at SmartViser, added: “We are excited to partner with VDE Institute to address the increasing demand for energy efficiency testing. Viser Test Automation simplifies the process for labs and manufacturers, enabling a robust and scalable solution to meet regulatory challenges and market needs.” Supporting Compliance With the June 2025 energy labelling regulations just passed, manufacturers must act now to ensure compliance and maintain market access. Market Surveillance authorities across Europe need to also be ready to conduct testing. By adopting SmartViser’s Viser Test Automation, the VDE Institute is uniquely positioned to support businesses with efficient, reliable energy labelling testing, ensuring products meet the required energy performance standards. About SmartViser SmartViser is a leading telecommunications innovator, recognized for its expertise and commitment to customer-centric solutions. Its flagship test automation suite, viSer, enables OEMs, ODMs, Mobile Operators, MVNOs, Regulators, and telecom service providers to thoroughly test, benchmark, monitor, and measure Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) across devices and networks. The versatile viSer suite supports both active and passive monitoring on public, private, and mission-critical networks, offering comprehensive connectivity and device performance insights. viSer is device-agnostic, compatible with iOS and Android, and spans all telecom technologies from 2G to 5G, including VoLTE and VoWiFi. It covers numerous use cases, from POLQA voice quality assessments to speed tests, latency, throughput, calls, and network coverage analysis. SmartViser contributed significantly to the European Union’s Energy Labelling Regulations, ensuring viSer’s compliance with these standards. Beyond automation, SmartViser offers extensive field testing and is an accredited test house for the Altice Group, providing support in over 25 countries. Headquartered in Rennes, France, SmartViser collaborates globally to help customers adopt new technologies faster, reduce costs, and elevate product quality, enabling success in today’s rapidly advancing telecom landscape. You can find more information about SmartViser and its innovative software on the Web at www.smartviser.com Press Contact Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer Susie.siouti@smartviser.com About the VDE Institute The VDE mark is synonymous with safety and quality in electrical devices, components and systems for more than 100 years. The VDE Institute - a subsidiary of the VDE Group - is a worldwide partner for industry customers, business, government authorities, the electrical trade and consumers. More than 100,000 devices per year are subjected to product, quality and safety tests by the VDE Institutes independent testing engineers before they receive the VDE mark. Around the globe, VDE experts monitor more than 7,000 production facilities. Cooperation agreements with more than 50 countries ensure that the tests performed by the VDE Institute are internationally recognized. 200,000 types of products with millions of model variants bear the VDE mark worldwide. The VDE Testing and Certification Institute GmbH, a non-profit organization, employs more than 500 people in Offenbach am Main. For more information, visit www.vde.com/institute About VDE VDE, one of the largest technology organizations in Europe, has been regarded as a synonym for innovation and technological progress for more than 130 years. VDE is the only organization in the world that combines science, standardization, testing, certification, and application consulting under one umbrella. The VDE mark has been synonymous with the highest safety standards and consumer protection for more than 100 years. Our passion is the advancement of technology, the next generation of engineers and technologists, and lifelong learning and career development “on the job”. Within the VDE network more than 2,000 employees at over 60 locations worldwide, more than 100,000 honorary experts, and around 1,500 companies are dedicated to ensuring a future worth living: networked, digital, electrical. Shaping the e-dialistic future. The VDE (VDE Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies) is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. For more information, visit www.vde.com Press contact: Jennifer Bounoua, Phone +49 151 14600477, presse@vde.com

Highlights from Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025 in Brussels Brussels, Belgium – June 17–19, 2025 Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025 brought together global leaders, industry innovators, government authorities, and mission-critical communication experts to shape the future of public safety communications. Held at the heart of Europe, the event emphasized collaboration, technological innovation, and resilience  in an increasingly interconnected world. Global Collaboration for a Safer World The central theme of working together across industry, government, and verticals  was clear throughout the event. With government authorities from 25 nations , over 250 global exhibitors , and 200+ expert speakers , CCW 2025 created a vibrant forum for addressing challenges in spectrum allocation, regulations, and international standards. During the opening session, Bernard Quintin , Belgium’s Minister of Home Affairs, and Salvator Vella , Director General of ASTRID , welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of uniting public and private sectors. A strong call was made for harmonized regulation across Europe and globally, to avoid mission-critical services falling behind due to fragmented policies. Resilience & Disaster Preparedness A recurring theme was the need for resilient communications infrastructure , particularly in disaster scenarios. Sessions addressed best practices in disaster response and international cooperation, with case studies highlighting how robust communication systems save lives and ensure operational continuity in times of crisis. Transition to Broadband & Hybrid Networks A significant focus was the transition from legacy LMR systems (like TETRA and P25) to broadband . The evolution of MCX (Mission Critical Services) , powered by LTE and 5G, is accelerating. The discussions emphasized the importance of hybrid network models , integrating LMR with broadband to support a smooth migration and ensure backward compatibility. Cybersecurity & Regulatory Gaps CCW 2025 brought to light the regulatory lag  behind technological advancement. While 3GPP standards now reflect mission-critical requirements, speakers stressed the absence of unified regulation for MCX services in Europe. This raised key questions: Do we need a common European regulation  for mission-critical broadband? Is the EUCCS  framework the solution? Should global harmonization  be a priority? What role should the ITU  play in supporting Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) networks? Future Technologies: AI, 5G, and Satellite Integration The conference also explored how AI, satellite communication, IoT , and 6G developments  are reshaping public safety: Integration of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)  to support remote and resilient communications. The transformative role of 5G  in enabling low-latency , high-bandwidth  applications like real-time drone footage , augmented reality , and enhanced situational awareness  for first responders. GCF and TCCA Certification Update The Global Certification Forum (GCF)  now includes Mission Critical Services (MCS)  in its certification program (since June 2024). This milestone supports faster integration of multi-vendor solutions and ensures interoperability and end-to-end service quality . Sweden  was recognized as a leader in MCS certification, hosting: The world’s first GCF Mission Critical Communications Operator (MSB as MCCO) AstaZero  as the Recognized Test Organization (RTO) Ericsson  as the Assessment Capable Entity (ACE) National Highlights: France’s RRF Project & ACMOSS Wins A standout session showcased France’s RRF (Réseau Radio du Futur)  project, illustrating significant progress in building the country’s next-gen public safety network. Congratulations were extended to ACMOSS , the national agency for operational mobile communications, for its double win at the ICCAwards  – a testament to their leadership and innovation in mission-critical services. Renaud Mellies  was also elected to the TCCA Board of Directors , acknowledging his continued contributions to the CCW community. Congratulations to All ICCA 2025 Winners The International Critical Communications Awards (ICCA) 2025  once again celebrated outstanding achievements and innovation across the sector. Congratulations to all winners for their impressive contributions: Best Hybrid Device : L3Harris Technologies  – XL Extreme 400P , a multiband, NFPA-compliant, full-spectrum radio. Best MCX Product or Solution of the Year : Frequentis AG  – MissionX Android SDK , the first MCS client platform certified by GCF. Best TETRA Product or Solution of the Year : Sepura Limited  – Sepura SC28 Module . Best Use of Advanced Technology (AI, UAVs, Situational Awareness) : Qualcomm Technologies, Aramco, and Aramco Digital  – Industrial Generative AI-Powered IoT Solutions at the Edge . Best Use of Critical Communications in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mining, Oil & Gas : Vodafone Business  – CIMPOR 5G Standalone Mobile Private Network . Best Use of Critical Communications in Public Safety : ACMOSS  – RRF – Radio Reseau du Futur . Best Use of Critical Communications in Transport : Hytera Communications Corporation Limited  – HK MTR Light Rail 2.0 with 5G MCX Radio System . Best Use of Critical Communications in Utilities : Vertel  – Icon Water TMR Replacement . TCCA Young Engineer of the Year : Adam Howe  – Sepura Limited . Phil Kidner Award for Individual Outstanding Contribution : Jim Bugel  – FirstNet Built with AT&T . Outstanding Services to TCCA : Harald Ludwig , Chairman, Technical Forum, TCCA. SmartViser at CCW25: Demonstrating the Future of Test Automation SmartViser played a key role at CCW25 by showcasing their innovative test automation solutions  for mission-critical broadband networks. Key demonstrations included: Remote Testing for Private and Public Safety Networks : Highlighting how their viSer platform supports automated testing even in challenging or isolated environments , ensuring consistent quality and performance. Real-time Monitoring and QoS Validation : SmartViser demonstrated tools that verify service reliability and coverage , critical for both emergency services and hybrid LMR-broadband networks. MCX Testing Readiness : Showcased readiness for MCX device and network testing , aligning with the latest GCF certification standards . Satellite & NTN Testing Capabilities : Previewed testing capabilities for satellite-integrated networks , a growing area in critical communication ecosystems. These demonstrations reinforced SmartViser’s commitment to supporting network providers, regulators, and public safety organizations  with agile and scalable test automation to accelerate deployment and ensure service excellence. Looking Ahead: CCW 2026 in London As this year's event concludes, the baton has officially passed to the United Kingdom. Critical Communications World returns next year:📅 16–18 June 2026 | 📍 ExCeL London, UK We look forward to continuing the global mission-critical conversation and driving innovation forward in London next year! Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Rennes, France – June 13th , 2025 – SmartViser is excited to announce its participation as an exhibitor at the TCCA Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025, taking place at Brussels Expo, Hall 7, Stand F115, from June 17 to 19, 2025. In addition, SmartViser will also actively take part to the GCF/TCCA Workshop on June 20, 2025, underscoring its commitment to the advancement of Mission Critical communications standards and technologies.   This year at CCW, SmartViser will showcase a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to help customers maximize the performance and reliability of Business and Mission Critical (MCX) networks. With the rising demand for dependable Push-to-Talk ( MCX PTT ), MCX data, MCX Video, and MCX call services in critical environments, SmartViser is proud to present real-world use cases demonstrating how our technologies support effective MCX service testing, validation and monitoring.   Two Key Product Lines Featured: Active Testing Solutions  – Ideal for pre-launch troubleshooting and service validation, ensuring readiness and performance before going live.   Network Monitoring Solutions  – Delivering continuous monitoring to guarantee service stability, coverage, and real-time performance tracking once operational.   Following the successful debut of our lightweight monitoring products, Temp.o and Mate.o at MWC, SmartViser is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation: the Insight Studio Dashboard. This powerful new web dashboard tool, commercially available later in the year, consolidates active and passive monitoring KPIs, offering real-time alerts, stability measurements, and coverage visibility through a single, intuitive interface.   Built around a scalable, device-based monitoring approach, SmartViser’s solutions are easy to deploy and tailored to the needs of modern critical communication infrastructures.   Join Us in Brussels TCCA CCW25 We invite all CCW attendees to visit us at Stand F115 to explore how SmartViser’s innovative testing and monitoring solutions can enhance the performance and reliability of your critical communication services. About SmartViser SAS SmartViser is a leading telecommunications innovator, recognized for its expertise and commitment to customer-centric solutions. Its flagship test automation suite, viSer, enables OEMs, ODMs, Mobile Operators, MVNOs, Regulators, and telecom service providers to thoroughly test, benchmark, monitor, and measure Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) across devices and networks. The versatile viSer suite supports both active and passive monitoring on public, private, and mission-critical networks, offering comprehensive connectivity and device performance insights. viSer is device-agnostic, compatible with iOS and Android, and spans all telecom technologies from 2G to 5G, including VoLTE and VoWiFi. It covers numerous use cases, from POLQA voice quality assessments to speed tests, latency, throughput, calls, and network coverage analysis. SmartViser contributed significantly to the European Union’s Energy Labelling Regulations, ensuring viSer’s compliance with these standards. Beyond automation, SmartViser offers extensive field testing and is an accredited test house for the Altice Group, providing support in over 25 countries. Headquartered in Rennes, France, SmartViser collaborates globally to help customers adopt new technologies faster, reduce costs, and elevate product quality, enabling success in today’s rapidly advancing telecom landscape. In 2024 Anritsu Corporation Acquired 32.72% Stake in SmartViser SAS. You can find more information about SmartViser and its innovative software on the Web at  www.smartviser.com   Press Contact and General Information SmartViser                                      Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer  Susie.siouti@smartviser.com

Countdown to Compliance: New EU Energy Labelling Regulation Comes Into Force on 20th June 2025 In just five weeks, a pivotal moment for sustainability and consumer transparency in the tech industry will arrive. On Monday, 20th June 2025, the new EU Energy Labelling Regulation officially comes into force, alongside its sister regulation, the Eco Design Regulation. These regulations mark a major shift in how smartphones and tablets are assessed for energy efficiency, durability, and environmental impact. At SmartViser, we’re proud to have been involved in this regulatory journey from its earliest days. Our collaboration with the European Commission began in 2021, when we were invited to contribute to the creation of the testing methodology for the new regulation. This was more than a compliance project — it was an opportunity to help shape a standard that will impact how mobile devices are designed, tested, and purchased across Europe. A Leading Role in Innovation and Compliance SmartViser was honoured to be the first company selected by the European Commission to develop the Beta version of the Energy Labelling test application. This initial version was shared with key stakeholders, including several members of Digital Europe, for review and feedback. The constructive responses helped fine-tune the methodology, ensuring it would meet the practical needs of manufacturers, market surveillance authorities, and test laboratories. Following the Beta phase, we were tasked with creating the first official pilot application, which was successfully launched in August 2023 — three months ahead of the regulation’s transitional rollout in September 2023. This pilot phase allowed stakeholders across the industry to begin adapting to the new requirements, laying the groundwork for full implementation in June 2025. Supporting Industry Through the Transition The Energy Labelling Regulation was designed with a transition period to help the industry prepare. This timeframe allowed: • Manufacturers to integrate the new labelling requirements into product development. • Market surveillance authorities to build up the necessary testing and enforcement infrastructure. • Test labs to familiarise themselves with the methodology and refine their procedures. Throughout this period, SmartViser has continued to play a key role, offering technical expertise, test automation solutions, and dedicated support to help stakeholders navigate the new regulatory landscape. From 20 June 2025, the Energy Labelling requirements will apply to all smartphones and slate tablets placed on the EU market. These regulations do not apply to: • Tablet computers, • Devices with a flexible (roll-up) main display, and • Smartphones specifically designed for high-security communications. A Focus on Sustainability and Longer Product Lifecycles At the heart of both regulations is the ambition to extend the usable life of electronic devices, by setting clear requirements on reparability, upgradability, and battery endurance. For example, increasing the average lifespan of a mid-range smartphone from 3.0 to 4.1 years could significantly reduce the number of new devices entering the market each year — while maintaining the same total number of devices in use. Device Categories Covered by the Energy Labelling Regulation Smartphones are equipped with integrated touchscreens ranging from 4 to 7 inches, supporting app ecosystems and advanced functionalities. Slate tablets feature screen sizes from 7 to 17.4 inches, operate without a physically attached keyboard, and run mobile operating systems such as Android or iOS. This differentiates them from tablet computers, which typically include (or support) a detachable keyboard and use desktop-like operating systems such as Windows. According to the European Information & Communications Technology Industry Association (EIA), tablet computers are classified under personal computers and are excluded from these regulations. Please Note: The Ecodesign requirements will apply to smartphones, feature phones, cordless phones and slate tablets, but the Energy labelling applies only to smartphones and slate tablets. The Energy Label Source: EU Commission Under the new regulation, these devices must display key information on: • Energy Efficiency and Battery Endurance • Battery longevity • Resistance to dust and water • Durability against accidental drops • Repairability Class See more in EU website For the first time, products will also be required to display a repairability score, offering transparency on how easily a device can be repaired. This new energy label is designed to empower EU consumers to make more informed, sustainable purchasing decisions and to promote environmentally conscious consumption. Consumers can access even more detailed product information through the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) by scanning the QR code included on each label. EU Energy Labelling Regulation. How SmartViser can help ? 1️⃣Test Automation with SmartViser’s Viser Neo   Take control of your testing with Viser Neo, the leading test automation solution that allows you to set up your own environment for energy label testing. ✔️ Works with any Android or iOS device, any chipset ✔️ No rooting or jailbreaking required ✔️ Empowers your test teams to efficiently execute energy labelling tests   2️⃣ Expert Testing Services – We Test for You!   No in-house testing lab? No problem! SmartViser offers top-tier testing services to support your compliance needs: ✔️ Official testing for energy labelling certification ✔️ Lab calibration support to ensure full compliance ✔️ Troubleshooting services to identify performance improvement areas Simply send us your device, and our expert team will handle the rest!   3️⃣ SmartViser Intelligence Reports – Benchmarking Energy Labelling   Understand the competitive landscape with SmartViser’s SVI Reports, offering: ✔️ A snapshot of market performance and energy efficiency trends ✔️ Insights into how your device stacks up against competitors ✔️ Actionable data to optimize your products and gain a competitive edge With the EU Energy Labelling and Ecodesign regulations coming into force on 20 June 2025, the focus is clear: greater transparency, longer product lifespans, and more sustainable choices for consumers. SmartViser is proud to have played a pioneering role in shaping this regulation from its inception, and we’re ready to help you navigate what’s next. Whether you need cutting-edge test automation, trusted compliance testing services, or strategic market benchmarking, SmartViser offers the tools and expertise to ensure you're fully prepared. Now is the time to act. Partner with SmartViser and stay ahead of regulation and the competition. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding an MBA from Henley Business School brings a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee, responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging a customer-centric culture. The main mission is to help organizations to create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile communications, where data-driven applications like video streaming and social media dominate, voice services remain a cornerstone of connectivity. Despite representing just 2% of mobile network traffic compared to the overwhelming 70% occupied by video, voice plays a pivotal role in user experience. It is the foundation of personal and professional communication, relied upon during emergencies, and remains one of the most frequently used features on mobile devices. Voice quality remains a vital differentiator in today's evolving mobile networks. Despite a significant decrease in the proportion of voice communications—now representing roughly 2% of mobile network traffic compared to approximately 70% for video—voice service remains the cornerstone for user interactions with their devices. Subscribers often gauge the overall quality of their operator or OTT application based significantly on voice call clarity and reliability. The Continued Significance of Voice Services Even with the rise of video streaming, gaming, and data-centric applications, voice calls are foundational to personal and professional communications. This fundamental reliance makes voice quality a decisive factor in user satisfaction and brand loyalty. With the recent introduction of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs)—like satellite connectivity—ensuring consistent voice quality has become even more complex yet critical. Voice Quality and User Satisfaction (NPS Impact) Quality voice service is a major driver of customer satisfaction and loyalty  for mobile operators. J.D. Power emphasizes that “call quality and reliability have become the most critical drivers of customer satisfaction with network quality”​ Customers now expect voice calls to be “flawless… every time”, so issues like dropouts or poor audio “substantially affect satisfaction” J.D. Power Study ​ In practice, carriers that deliver superior call clarity see higher satisfaction ratings. For example, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) in 2023 showed improvements in perceived call quality: the ACSI “call quality (clarity and strength)” score for U.S. mobile operators rose from 79 to 82 (out of 100)  in 2024​ Top carriers AT&T and Verizon each scored 80/100  on call quality/reliability in that survey​ theacsi.org , indicating strong user approval of voice service. High-definition voice technologies (e.g. VoLTE  with wideband audio) are credited with boosting user experience. Industry analysts note that the enhanced voice clarity of VoLTE “improves the overall user experience, leading to higher customer satisfaction”​ according to Consegic Business Intelligence. In other words, better voice quality translates into better Net Promoter Scores and loyalty. While specific NPS figures are often proprietary, telecom executives consistently rank network service quality (including voice clarity) as a top NPS driver. A Heavy Reading survey of 80 global operators found improving customer experience  (closely tied to network and voice quality) was the number-one business priority and investment area​ Key Factors Determining Voice Quality Several technical factors directly influence voice quality: Codec Quality and Efficiency:  New advanced codecs offer improved audio fidelity and bandwidth efficiency but require precise implementation and management. Network Latency and Jitter:  Delays in packet transmission can significantly degrade call clarity, creating echoes and distorted conversations. Packet Loss:  Even minor packet loss can severely disrupt voice communication, making packet delivery reliability paramount. Measuring and Troubleshooting Voice Quality Accurately measuring voice quality involves sophisticated techniques, including: Mean Opinion Score (MOS):  An established method where human listeners rate call quality. It rates calls on a scale from 1 (bad) to 5 (excellent) based on human audio perception. Perceptual Objective Listening Quality Analysis (POLQA):  In modern testing, MOS is often obtained via objective algorithms (e.g. ITU P.863 POLQA , which predicts MOS by comparing reference and received audio). POLQA is highly precise and is used to evaluate voice quality across different technologies (2G, 3G, VoLTE, OTT VoIP, etc.) Drive and Walk Tests:  Field measurements ensure real-world verification of voice quality under typical usage scenarios. .Operators and independent testers also measure other voice KPIs: call setup time  (typically 2–5 seconds for VoLTE), call drop rates  (often targeted below 0.5–1%), and coverage of HD voice . Troubleshooting voice issues typically involves analyzing network KPIs, reviewing codec performance, and identifying areas of significant packet loss, latency, or interference Operator vs. OTT Voice Services The proliferation of OTT services like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom has reshaped the voice communication landscape, directly competing with traditional operator voice offerings. Mobile network operators today face intense competition from OTT voice services like WhatsApp, Skype, and others. Users often compare the call quality and reliability of carrier-provided voice (circuit-switched or VoLTE/VoNR calls) against these internet-based apps. Benchmark tests indicate that operators’ dedicated voice services still hold an edge in consistency and reliability .  For instance, a 2023 in-depth drive test study in Europe compared legacy 2G calls, VoLTE calls, and WhatsApp VoIP calls using objective MOS (Mean Opinion Score) measures. The results were striking: VoLTE delivered the highest and steadiest quality, with 98% of VoLTE call samples rating “Excellent”  in MOS quality (MOS ≥4.5)​ By contrast, the same network using WhatsApp (OTT voice) had 64%  of call samples as Excellent and a notable 16%  of samples falling to “Fair” quality (MOS in the 3.0–3.9 range)​. This demonstrates that carrier VoLTE can provide more consistently high audio quality  than OTT VoIP under the same conditions. Comparative analyses based on real-world measurements have shown: Reliability:  Operator-managed voice services typically deliver more consistent and reliable quality due to better-controlled network conditions. Quality:  OTT services frequently adopt more advanced codecs and provide higher-definition audio, albeit often susceptible to external factors like network congestion or weaker data coverage. User Experience:  Users may tolerate variable quality from OTT apps due to their convenience and additional features like video calling and messaging integration, yet they continue to expect consistently high-quality voice calls from mobile operators.The quality of voice calls is more than just a technical metric—it is a key factor in how subscribers perceive their mobile operators and over-the-top (OTT) communication services. Whether it’s the seamless clarity of an operator's voice call or the accessibility of an OTT app, the user’s experience is heavily shaped by voice quality. With the rise of advanced technologies, including Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and modern voice codecs, the challenge of delivering and measuring superior voice quality has grown significantly. Regional Insights and Trends North America & Europe:  These regions have nearly universal VoLTE and are now transitioning to Vo5G. Voice quality is generally consistent and high. Asia-Pacific:  A mix of ultra-advanced markets and developing ones creates varied insights. Middle East & Africa:  These regions are diverse, but many countries still rely on a mix of 2G/3G for voice alongside newer VoLTE in cities. Latin America:  Similar to MEA, with patchy VoLTE adoption but improving. Many LatAm operators report that introducing VoLTE In all regions, a common thread is emerging by 2025: simply providing voice service is not enough – operators must provide excellent  voice service . Voice is the most basic telecom offering, yet its quality can distinguish a premium operator from a mediocre one. Where they lead in voice quality, operators often incorporate that into branding (e.g. advertising fewer dropped calls, “crystal-clear” audio, or quoting awards from P3 connect or JD Power). And where they lag, churn can spike as users substitute with OTT or rival networks. Thus, investment in voice technology (from network upgrades to codecs to optimization)and thorough testing is viewed as investment in customer experience. How SmartViser Can Help? How SmartViser Can Help with Voice Quality Testing SmartViser is at the forefront of enabling operators and service providers to ensure superior voice quality through its innovative testing solutions. By leveraging its automated test suite, viSer , SmartViser offers comprehensive tools and methodologies to evaluate, troubleshoot, and optimize voice performance in today’s complex mobile networks. 1. Comprehensive Testing Across Real-World Scenarios SmartViser’s solutions are designed to simulate real-world conditions, including: Urban and Rural Environments : Testing voice quality in diverse locations, including challenging areas like underground sites or remote regions. Network Handovers : Evaluating call continuity and quality during transitions between network technologies (e.g., 4G to 5G). VoLTE and VoNR Testing : Assessing the performance of advanced voice technologies and codecs like EVS under varied network loads. 2. Automated and Remote Testing SmartViser enables operators to conduct automated voice quality tests with minimal human intervention: Remote Testing Capability : Operators can evaluate voice services in geographically dispersed areas without needing on-site teams. Automation for Efficiency : By automating repetitive tasks, SmartViser ensures faster, more reliable, and cost-effective testing cycles. 3. Objective Voice Quality Metrics SmartViser integrates industry-standard voice quality evaluation methods into its testing suite: POLQA Integration : Accurately assesses voice clarity and provides MOS (Mean Opinion Scores) to benchmark performance. Network Metrics Analysis 4. Troubleshooting and Insights SmartViser goes beyond identifying problems—it helps pinpoint root causes and provides actionable insights. 5. Testing OTT Voice Services With the increasing role of OTT services, SmartViser provides tools to compare operator voice quality against popular OTT platforms, End-to-End Comparison : Benchmarks OTT services like WhatsApp, Skype, or Microfot Teams. 6. Ensuring Consistent Quality in Non-Terrestrial Networks As NTNs become more prevalent, SmartViser’s solutions help operators ensure voice quality across satellite and hybrid networks, adapting to the unique challenges of these environments. SmartViser’s robust and adaptable testing framework ensures that operators and service providers can deliver exceptional voice quality, maintain customer satisfaction, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive telecommunications market. By simplifying and enhancing voice testing processes, SmartViser empowers its partners to meet the growing expectations of modern mobile users. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Rennes, 27th March 2025. Following the announcement on November 29, 2024, regarding Anritsu’s agreement to acquire a 32.72% stake in SmartViser, Gilles Ricordel (SmartViser CEO) confirms that the French Government has officially approved the deal following the regulatory checks. With this significant milestone achieved, we are now ready to advance into the next chapter of collaboration between Anritsu and SmartViser. This strategic acquisition was initially approved during Anritsu’s Board of Directors meeting on November 27, 2024, followed by the formal signing of a stock purchase agreement. The partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of both companies in delivering advanced testing solutions to meet the evolving demands of the telecommunications industry. Headquartered in France, SmartViser specialises in delivering advanced automation and monitoring solutions for performance evaluation and functional testing across mobile networks and devices. Our mission has always been to help mobile network operators and device manufacturers streamline testing processes, improve efficiency, and reduce operational costs. This strategic partnership marks an exciting new phase. By combining SmartViser’s strengths in test automation and remote monitoring with Anritsu’s cutting-edge communications test solutions, we will broaden our capabilities and reach. Together, we aim to drive innovation across multiple sectors—from smartphones and private networks to mission-critical systems and the automotive industry—supporting the global shift toward smarter, more sustainable, and carbon-neutral societies. We look forward to this collaborative journey and the new possibilities it brings for our clients, partners, and the industry. Learn more about Anrirsu: Anritsu Completes Partial Share Acquisition, Making SmartViser an Equity-Method Associate | Anritsu Europe You can find more information about SmartViser and its innovative software on the Web at  www.smartviser.com   Press Contact and General Information SmartViser                                      Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer  Susie.siouti@smartviser.com

Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC25): Key Highlights and Announcements The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona once again showcased the latest advancements in telecommunications, mobile technologies, and enterprise connectivity. With over 109,000 attendees from 205 countries , the event served as a pivotal platform for industry leaders to unveil cutting-edge innovations and discuss key trends shaping the future of mobile networks. We have started the week with Canalys & Omdia breakfast briefing at MWC 2025: "Partnering to Thrive in 2025" which provided a great overview of the prevalent themes of the event with the exception of 6G which was largely absent from the event.   Canalys & Omdia breakfast briefing at MWC 2025 AI and Automation: Transforming Telecom Artificial Intelligence (AI) took center stage at MWC 2025, as telecom giants unveiled AI-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing network intelligence, automation, and customer experiences. Open Telecom AI Platform:  AMD, Cisco, Nokia, and Jio Platforms announced a new AI-driven telecom platform  designed to integrate AI and automation into every network layer . This initiative will leverage Agentic AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), and other ML techniques  to optimize telecom and digital services. Huawei’s AI Core Network:  Huawei introduced the first AI-native core network , marking a major leap from AI-powered to AI-native infrastructure . This innovation integrates AI agents within 5G-A Intelligent Core , boosting network efficiency and computing capabilities . DeepSeek AI Growth:  AI was a dominant theme, with DeepSeek-powered products  emerging across telecom applications, signaling China’s rapid evolution in AI adoption within mobile networks . 5G and Private Networks: Expanding Connectivity MWC 2025 reaffirmed 5G’s role in enterprise connectivity , with significant advancements in private networks, industrial applications, and telecom cloud integration . Global 5G Adoption:  The industry now boasts over 2 billion 5G connections worldwide , alongside 4,700 private LTE/5G networks  deployed by the end of 2024. Manufacturing & Private 5G Summit:  Experts from AT&T, ServiceNow, and AltaGas  discussed how AI-driven Private 5G networks  enhance efficiency, security, and cost reduction . Telefonica & AWS Partnership :  Europe’s first 5G Standalone (SA) call  using on-site and public cloud architecture  was completed with Nokia’s Cloud RAN solution on AWS infrastructure . Ericsson’s 5G Smart Airports Initiative :  Hosted "The Future-Ready Airport" panel, featuring experts from Airbus , Capgemini , TDC and EUWENA , demonstrating how 5G is revolutionizing aviation connectivity . Red Hat’s Telecom Expansion:  Announced new partnerships with Orange, SoftBank, KDDI, and Rakuten Mobile  to further 5G and cloud innovations . Satellite & Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN): The Next Frontier For the first time in years, MWC’s NTN Summit was oversubscribed , indicating the industry’s growing focus on expanding connectivity to remote and underserved areas . Eutelsat, Airbus & Mediatek Collaboration :  Conducted the world’s first 5G NTN trial  using OneWeb’s low Earth orbit satellites . Cubic & Skylo Partnership:   Announced a satellite-based IoT network  to enhance connectivity in rural and isolated areas . T-Mobile’s Flying Base Station :  Demonstrated the Primoco One 150 drone , which delivers 200 Mbps downlink and 75 Mbps uplink , providing connectivity to 1,200 users in remote regions . Originally focused on basic text and voice services, it has now broadened to incorporate data capabilities. SmartViser is set to support with any testing need on NTN. Smartphones & Tech Innovations MWC 2025 showcased several high-profile smartphone launches and next-gen hardware innovations: Xiaomi 15 Ultra :  Co-engineered with Leica , featuring a 200MP periscope lens , redefining mobile photography . Samsung Galaxy A56:   A budget-friendly 5G device  with long-term software support  and a 50MP camera . Nothing Phone (3a) Pro :  Focused on camera enhancements and innovative design . Lenovo’s AI-Powered Laptops :  Introduced the ThinkBook Flip , a flexible OLED device , and Yoga Solar PC , a solar-powered AI laptop . Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Growth MWC 2025 underscored the importance of collaboration across industries  to drive telecom innovation and growth: GSMA’s Expansion into Automotive & Aviation:  Partnered with 5GAA , JASPAR, Outsight , Safran , and Seamless Air Alliance  to advance 5G solutions in transport . Ericsson’s Ecosystem Play:  Brought together partners at its MWC booth  to highlight real-world 5G enterprise use cases . NTT & Nokia Unveil 6G Hardware Plans:  Provided the first look at next-gen 6G hardware , setting the stage for future connectivity. SmartViser & Anritsu Presence at MWC25 SmartViser made a significant impact at MWC 2025 with key announcements: Introducing Viser Temp.o and Viser Mate.o:  Expanding into network monitoring automation , these tools provide: Viser Temp.o  – Active (foreground) network monitoring for real-time insights. Viser Mate.o  – Passive (background) network monitoring for continuous network assessment. Expanded Capabilities for Viser Neo+:  Enhanced with low-layer messaging capture  and advanced analytics . Mission Critical Communications KPI Support:  New KPIs for MCPTT (Push-to-Talk) and MCPTV (Push-to-Video) , ensuring high reliability and quality. Speech Quality MOS Testing :  Now supports VoNR, VoLTE, and OTT calls  (e.g., Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp) on both Android and iOS devices . EU Energy Labelling Regulation & Benchmark Reports:  Providing compliance insights and reports for manufacturers. Viser Neo Test Automation:  Enhancing device testing efficiency and reliability . Quality of Experience (QoE) Assessments :  Utilizing real smartphones for true real-world network performance evaluations . Joint Demos with Anritsu at MWC 2025 SmartViser and Anritsu collaborated on groundbreaking demonstrations at Stand D41, Hall 5 : The Future of Service Assurance – AI-Assured Networks for an Autonomous Tomorrow Showcased AI-powered Service Assurance platforms , integrating Ookla’s DownDetector  for real-time network issue detection . Highlighted Private Networks' role in secure and controlled operations . End-to-End Latency Testing for URLLC and MEC Deployments Demonstrated latency analysis between MEC applications and mobile terminals . Featured Anritsu’s high-performance MT1000A tester  for accurate real-world network evaluations . Utilized SmartViser Neo tools for multi-domain KPI measurements . These demonstrations showcased cutting-edge solutions for latency-critical applications , from autonomous driving to industrial automation . Where Was 6G? Unlike previous editions, 6G was largely absent from MWC 2025 discussions . However, expectations are high for the upcoming 3GPP workshop in Incheon, South Korea (March 10-11, 2025) , which may provide further updates on 6G standardization and development . The upcoming 6G workshop will be chaired by the leadership of the three Technical Specification Groups (TSGs) of 3GPP: For TSG SA - Puneet Jain, TSG RAN - Ronald Borsato and for TSG CT - Peter Schmitt.  Conclusion: Partnerships, AI, and 5G Dominate MWC 2025 MWC 2025 underscored the power of partnerships , the growing role of AI in telecom operations , and the continued expansion of 5G and NTN solutions . While 6G discussions were minimal , early collaborations suggest the industry is laying the groundwork for the next wave of telecom evolution . Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Smartphones have become indispensable to modern life, but they are not without flaws. From hardware failures to software glitches, user complaints span a wide range of issues that can significantly impact satisfaction and loyalty. Manufacturers must address these concerns proactively, ensuring their devices meet and exceed user expectations. SmartViser, with its powerful test automation suite, viSer, offers a robust solution for testing early and ensuring improved user experiences. For over a decade, SmartViser  has partnered with major smartphone manufacturers, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and media to enhance device performance and user satisfaction. Our extensive experience in the telecom and technology industry has given us unique insights into the challenges faced by smartphone users. By combining feedback collected directly from our customers with insights from smartphone user forums, Android communities, and industry discussions, we have identified the most common complaints. Common Smartphone Complaints Battery Issues Short Battery Life : Users often find their devices unable to last a full day, especially with heavy usage like streaming, gaming, or GPS navigation. This leads to a constant dependency on chargers or power banks. Battery Degradation : Reduced battery capacity over time. Power-Intensive Apps and Features : Modern apps, particularly social media, video editing tools, and games, are resource-intensive and consume significant amounts of energy. Background Processes : Apps running in the background can drain the battery without the user’s knowledge, reducing overall standby time. Performance Throttling : To protect against degrading batteries or overheating issues, manufacturers sometimes implement performance throttling, causing devices to slow down seriously impacting end users experience. Performance Problems Lagging or Slow Performance : Devices slow down with prolonged use. Overheating : Excessive heat generation during usage sometimes in basic operations like browsing. Devices overheating has become more prominent with the launch of 5G. Connectivity Challenges Weak Signal Reception : Poor connectivity in certain locations affects some devices while others work ok. Bluetooth Pairing Issues : Problems with wireless peripherals like specific headsets or hearing aids. Intermittent connections and connectivity dropped. Inconsistent Network Speeds : Fluctuations in Wi-Fi, 4G, or 5G performance. Software Glitches App Crashes : Applications freezing or closing unexpectedly. Delayed Updates : Late delivery of system and security updates. Camera Concerns Inconsistent Quality : Poor photos, especially in low light. Shutter Lag : Delays capturing images. Audio Quality Issues Poor Voice Quality : Distorted or muffled calls. Inconsistency on Audio MOS between cellular calls or with various OTT applications like WhatsApp, Viber, Microsoft Teams, etc. Call Performance Problems : Dropped calls or delays in connectivity. VoLTE/VoWiFi Issues : Challenges with HD voice calls over LTE or Wi-Fi. Top Smartphone Issues Reported in 2024 Based on feedback from smartphone manufacturers, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and insights gathered from user forums and communities, the most reported smartphone issues in 2024 are as follows: * Data collected from Mobile Network Operators, Smartphone Manufacturers forums How SmartViser Drives Improved End-User Experience, enhanced device performance and quality SmartViser’s viSer Test Automation Platform and Testing Services  provides comprehensive solutions to address these top issues, enabling manufacturers and ODMs to: Identify problems early in the development cycle through real-world usage simulations . Reduce time-to-market with automated and reliable testing processes. Deliver devices that meet user expectations for performance, reliability, and satisfaction. By tackling these top issues proactively, smartphone manufacturers and MNOs can enhance product quality, reduce customer complaints, and build stronger trust with end-user. 1. Test Automation: Comprehensive Testing for Superior User Experience Our test automation platform  enables manufacturers to efficiently test all aspects that impact end-user experience. With automated testing, manufacturers can identify and resolve potential issues early in the development process. Key Areas of Test Automation ✅ Web Browsing Testing URL validation (UA) duration analysis Rendering timeout measurement Auto-scroll performance ✅ Data Transfer & Network Performance Upload/download (UL/DL) bi-directional testing HTTP/FTP transfer speed validation ✅ iPerf Testing (Network Performance Monitoring) Download, upload, and bidirectional data testing Server address, port number, and timeout analysis Transfer mode assessment (duration/data) Simultaneous connections validation ✅ Ping Testing Round-trip time (RTT) measurement Packet count validation Ping interval and packet size optimization ✅ Video Streaming & YouTube Performance Streaming loading and buffering time (Min, Max, Avg) Loading timeout detection Fullscreen, loop, and screen orientation analy sis ✅ Camera & Multimedia Testing Video and image quality assessment Performance testing under various lighting conditions ✅ Battery Performance & Power Consumption Power usage analysis based on user actions Battery temperature, capacity, and voltage trend monitoring ✅ Call & Voice Quality Performance Call establishment time measurement Detection of call drops and failures CSFB (Circuit Switched Fallback) and SRVCC (Single Radio Voice Call Continuity) analysis Speech quality assessment using MOS (Mean Opinion Sc ore) ✅ Messaging Performance SMS, MMS, and email send/receive time testing Minimum, maximum, and average time analysis ✅ Gaming Performance & Device Temperature Game quality testing Real-time temperature monitoring during gameplay ✅ Connectivity Assessment WiFi, Bluetooth, and Cellular Network Performance RAT (Radio Access Technology) distribution across CS/PS (Circuit Switched/Packet Switched) 5G Performance Evaluation Signal Strength Testing in various environments With viSer test automation , manufacturers can run repeatable, scalable, and real-world tests  without the need for extensive manual testing, helping them optimize their devices before launch . 2. Testing Services: Expert Testing with Global Reach For manufacturers looking for real-world testing  without the need for an in-house testing team, SmartViser’s Testing Services   provide an efficient solution. Simply send us your devices along with the proposed test requirements, and our expert team will handle the rest. Key Benefits of SmartViser’s Testing Services 📌 Extensive Local Testers Across Key Markets Europe, USA, and Other Major Regions Testing across all leading carriers with local SIM cards 📌 Deep Knowledge of Local Networks & Drive Routes Expertise in network conditions, carrier behavior, and connectivity challenges Real-world drive testing to evaluate coverage, handover, and signal strength 📌 Experienced Testers with Expertise in Advanced Logging Tools Proficient in analyzing device logs using industry-leading tools Ability to detect and resolve issues related to new network technologies 📌 Support for Complex & Challenging Testing Validation of emergency call performance Testing of new network technologies, including 5G and VoWiFi Real-world stress tests under high-demand scenarios Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.