Holographic Phones: O2's 2026 Vision for 3D Calls
Holographic phone calls, where the person on the other end appears as a three-dimensional figure, might be a reality by 2026 according to Telefónica’s (O2) plans.
Mallik Rao, Head of Technology at Telefónica Deutschland, shared this forthcoming technology with the German Press Agency in Munich. Rao mentioned that the product should be ready for the market within two to three years after thorough testing and integration into their system.
The company’s ambition is to start with corporate clients and introduce it to the mass market later. At present, O2 is testing holography on its campus in Munich for their 25th anniversary celebration of the network. Bavaria’s Minister President Markus Söder (CSU) will make a hologram call as a guest.
Holography Across Networks
The project to establish universal standards for holographic connections is underway as a collaboration between mobile network operators Telekom, Vodafone, O2, Orange, and Matsuko. This joint effort aims to enable holographic calls beyond individual networks.
O2 Innovation Manager Karsten Erlebach shared that good progress is being made in enabling holography in their networks, but the technology still requires further development [1].
Different Variants of Holography
There are different versions of holography, such as both callers wearing virtual reality (VR) glasses and seeing their 3D images, or conference participants looking into tablets or smartphones without glasses and seeing the participants on the screen as if they were in the same room [5].
As Erlebach explained, a bandwidth of 20 megabits per second is needed for a hologram telephony experience, which is feasible and less than the bandwidth required for streaming high-resolution 4K films. To transmit 3D images smoothly, 35 frames per second should be transmitted, which is easily possible with "5G standalone."
O2's Potential and Future of Holography
Erlebach sees the potential in holography, believing that it will primarily be utilized by corporations for virtual meetings first. Bitkom, the German digital association, also advocates for the advantages of holography in enhancing professional and personal communication [2].
Holography is set to create a more realistic, emotional exchange over long distances by better conveying facial expressions and gestures [6]. To achieve the strongest 3D flair, VR glasses are required.
While full 3D holography in the style presented in science fiction films may still be far from reality, O2 is not planning to introduce it as a face-to-face conversation tool. The company sees this as a visual effect for stage productions.
Enrichment Data:
- Holographic Meeting Experience by Telefónica and Matsuko:
- Launch Timeline: Early 2025[2].
- Description: Telefónica and spatial computing firm Matsuko are launching a holographic conferencing service aimed at enhancing communication and emotional connection in meetings. This service leverages holographic technology to provide more immersive and effective interactions [1].
- Hologram Technology Advancements:
- General Trends: Hologram technology is advancing rapidly, with various companies exploring its applications in communication, business, healthcare, and education[4].
- Challenges: Despite the potential, hologram technology faces challenges such as high costs, infrastructure requirements, and technological development limitations. However, these barriers are expected to diminish as the technology evolves [4].
- 5G and Hologram Integration:
- Companies like IKIN: IKIN is positioning its 5G-ready mobile device, the RYZ, to introduce viable 5G holograms. This integration aims to tackle the essential goal of 4K mobile streaming and leverage the improved data speeds and ultra-low latency of 5G networks[1][5].
- Impact on Telecommunications: The integration of hologram technology with 5G networks is expected to enhance user experiences and provide more immersive communication options [4].
- Future Prospects:
- Global Connectivity: Holograms are set to enhance global connectivity by seamlessly integrating physical and virtual communication, enabling individuals to connect globally regardless of geographical location[4].
- Cost Efficiency: Holograms can reduce the need for physical travel, saving time and money. This is particularly beneficial for businesses and organizations looking to hold global meetings and presentations without the high costs and logistical challenges of in-person gatherings[4].
