ASTRID, the operator of the Emergency Communications Network in Belgium and host for the 2025 Critical Communications World event, announced major changes in it 'ASTRID BLue Light Mobile' services.

According to ASTRID the changes are a major evolution of the Blue Light Mobile service, designed to offer end-users of the ASTRID critical communications network in Belgium even better and more secure connectivity. In early 2025, SIM cards will be equipped with new features that will significantly improve mobile communications.

So, what's changing? VoLTE, VoWiFi, priority and pre-emption on three Belgian networks.

Blue Light Mobile users will soon have access to cutting-edge technologies such as VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi), as well as priority and pre-emption on the three major Belgian mobile networks. These new features improve call quality, strengthen communication continuity and ensure greater availability, even in emergency situations.

• VoLTE (Voice over LTE): This allows ASTRID users to make calls via 4G networks. In addition to improving call quality, this feature allows simultaneous use of voice and data via 4G/5G, which is a significant advantage for emergency responders in the field who need to access information in real time while continuing to communicate.

• VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi): This allows ASTRID users to make calls via a Wi-Fi connection, only in Belgium. This offers a solution in areas where mobile coverage is poor, such as in the office or at home. The quality of VoWiFi depends on the strength of the Wi-Fi signal.

• Priority and pre-emption: After the update, ASTRID users will benefit from priority and pre-emption on the Proximus, Orange and Base networks. This means that, even in the event of network congestion, your communications will be given priority over standard users. This is a crucial advantage in situations where the networks are saturated.