MANILA, Philippines, July 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ookla's comprehensive controlled network test reveals that traditional mobile operator networks deliver a measurably superior voice experience compared to Over-the-Top (OTT) applications like WhatsApp, particularly in critical areas such as audio fidelity, weak signal resilience, and call reliability.
The study, which evaluated the networks of the Philippines' three major mobile operators—Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, and DITO Telecommunity, demonstrates that carrier-managed VoLTE infrastructure remains the gold standard for consistent, high-quality communication, outperforming OTT voice services.
Operator Voice Deliver Consistent HD Audio, OTT Apps Only Offer Fair Quality
The research found a distinct quality gap in audio performance. While operator voice calls consistently delivered HD-grade audio quality—rated "Good"(scoring > 4.0) to "Excellent" (scoring > 4.3) across all three networks, OTT voice calls were rated only as "Fair" (scoring < 4.0). Smart and DITO achieved higher MOS scores than Globe by deploying the advanced EVS codec, which offers superior audio fidelity over Globe's AMR-WB.
Conversely, this gap exists because OTT apps treat voice as generic data packets, vulnerable to the internet's "best-effort" delivery. Even with operator network optimizations, OTT voice lacks the stringent Quality of Connection (QoC) guarantees. Under network stress—such as congestion, weak coverage, high packet loss, or significant jitter—OTT audio degrades noticeably. In contrast, VoLTE leverages exclusive high-priority cellular bearers to safeguard voice quality.
Operator Voice Sustains HD Quality in Weak Coverage While OTT Calls Degrade
The performance gap widens significantly at the cell edge, where signal strength is low. Under moderate-to-low RF coverage conditions (RSRP ≤ -100 dBm), operator-managed VoLTE calls maintained HD-grade clarity.
Conversely, OTT calls degraded further, slipping from "Fair" into the "Poor" (scoring < 3.6) and "Bad" (scoring < 3) ranges. This is a critical finding for consumers in areas with obstructed signals or far from cell sites, proving that dedicated voice bearers protect call quality where best-effort data (used by OTT) cannot.
VoLTE Delivers More Reliable Call Connections Than OTT
Reliability is another key differentiator. The study shows that VoLTE has significantly lower block rates (call setup failure rates) than OTT services. For instance, Globe recorded the lowest VoLTE block rate at 0.47%, versus its OTT rate of 1.64%. This trend was consistent across operators, highlighting that the dedicated signaling protocols of VoLTE (like optimized SIP and SRVCC) provide a more robust connection experience than OTT's best-effort data model.
The Path Forward: Building a Solid VoLTE Foundation for AI-Driven Voice
As Philippine NTC mandates the 3G sunset by December 2026, the industry must prioritize comprehensive VoLTE coverage and user migration. Looking ahead, the convergence of voice and AI stands as the industry's definitive future trend. However, a high- performance VoLTE network is the vital prerequisite for this shift. Operators should continuously refine their VoLTE infrastructure, laying a solid foundation to seamlessly integrate voice with AI and unlock the next generation of intelligent calling experiences.
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Ookla Study in Manila: Carrier VoLTE Networks Prove to Outperform OTT Apps in Voice Quality and Reliability
JACK'S CLUB AT THE ST. REGIS BALI RESORT
BALI, Indonesia, July 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The St. Regis Bali Resort unveils Jack's Club, introducing the first Jack's Club in a resort setting and marking a new chapter for the iconic St. Regis experience. Available throughout July to September, the seasonal activation transforms The St. Regis Bar into an elegant destination where live jazz, handcrafted cocktails, and distinguished culinary collaborations unfold seamlessly between its refined interiors and open-air terrace. As the music fills the evening, guests are invited to gather, connect, and savour conversations that linger as effortlessly as the cocktails themselves.
Named after John Jacob Astor IV, visionary founder of The St. Regis New York, Jack's Club pays tribute to an era when evenings at The St. Regis were defined by sophisticated conversation, remarkable entertainment, and impeccable hospitality. Inspired by the vibrant jazz clubs and cabaret culture of early twentieth-century New York, the global St. Regis activation reimagines this enduring legacy through immersive experiences thoughtfully tailored to each destination. At The St. Regis Bali Resort, that tradition finds a new expression amid the beauty of Bali, where timeless rituals meet the island's unmistakable spirit.
The season commences with an exclusive launch programme celebrating craftsmanship across both mixology and gastronomy. Marco Dongi joins forces with Jakkrit "Golf" Promchaisit, Head Mixologist of Bar Sathorn, Bangkok, ranked No. 48 in Asia's 50 Best Bars, for two evenings of exceptional guest cocktails at The St. Regis Bar. Continuing the celebration, Chef Andrea Cofini, formerly of the two Michelin-starred L'Atelier Robuchon, presents an exclusive dining experience at Kayuputi, where his contemporary culinary philosophy is thoughtfully paired with the restaurant's celebrated Pan-Asian cuisine.
Throughout the season, Jack's Club is brought to life through a curated live music programme inspired by the golden age of New York jazz, filling both the elegant interiors and open-air terrace of The St. Regis Bar with an atmosphere that encourages guests to linger, connect, and celebrate the timeless art of gathering. Tuesday through Thursday, the relaxed rhythms of Bossa Nova set an intimate tone for the evening. From Friday through Sunday, resident vocalist Whitney Pharoe, originally from South Africa, takes centre stage alongside a five-piece live band. Having performed internationally across Dubai and Spain, Whitney brings a captivating repertoire of jazz standards, soulful ballads, and contemporary favourites, creating evenings defined by elegance, rhythm, and meaningful connection.
Complementing the music is a limited-edition cocktail collection created exclusively for Jack's Club by Giri Asta, Head Bartender of The St. Regis Bar. Inspired by the glamour of the Jazz Age while embracing tropical influences unique to Bali, each cocktail reflects the artistry, creativity, and meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with St. Regis. Guests may also indulge in the refined pairing of Dom Pérignon, adding another signature expression to the evening experience.
"Jack's Club is a celebration of everything that has defined St. Regis for more than a century, remarkable gatherings, exceptional craftsmanship, and unforgettable evenings," says Héctor Busto, General Manager of The St. Regis Bali Resort. "We are honored to introduce the first Jack's Club in a resort setting, bringing together world-class music, distinguished culinary talent, and elevated mixology in a way that reflects both the heritage of St. Regis and the vibrant spirit of Bali."
Available from July through September, Jack's Club welcomes both resort guests and local residents to experience an extraordinary season of live jazz, celebrated culinary collaborations, and exceptional cocktails at The St. Regis Bar. More than a seasonal programme, Jack's Club continues a legacy that began over a century ago in New York, now thoughtfully reimagined at Bali's Finest Address.
For more information, please visit www.stregisbali.com.
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The St. Regis Bali Resort Unveils the First Jack's Club in a Resort Setting with Live Jazz, Celebrated Mixologists, and Timeless Evening Rituals
