Learn how to enable Wi-Fi calling on your device and stay connected no matter where you are. Follow these simple steps to set up Wi-Fi calling and enjoy clear phone calls over a Wi-Fi network.It has long been possible to make audio calls not only using cellular networks, but also via Wi-Fi. What is this function and how to use it? Find out from our material.
What is VoWiFi
Behind such abbreviations as Wi-Fi Calling, VoWiFi or VoWLAN lies the ability to make calls, send and receive messages via a wireless network. It would seem that there is nothing surprising here, the same Telegram or Viber have been able to do this for a long time.
But unlike the methods described above, in this particular case the connection is established via the mobile operator’s network. In fact, the most ordinary phone call occurs, which will be saved in the application history.
But the gadget connects to the mobile operator not through a base station, as is done in normal situations, but via Wi-Fi. And what to choose from this in a particular case, the phone “decides” itself, based on the surrounding conditions.
Advantages of VoWiFi
There are more than enough advantages to Wi-Fi calling technology. The most important of them are:
- Significant increase in the area covered by the operator’s network due to Wi-Fi networks;
- The ability to easily communicate from locations where the cellular signal is very poor or non-existent;
- Video communication support;
- The cost of calls does not depend on the location of the subscriber and is paid based on the conditions of the home tariff;
- No roaming;
- There is no need to download and install third-party applications, as is the case with instant messengers, since the function is built into the smartphone itself.
What do you need for Wi-Fi calling?
To use VoWiFi, you need to meet a couple of conditions. First, your mobile operator must support this technology. Fortunately, at the moment, this standard is found in one way or another in all major networks. Secondly, the option must be supported by your smartphone. Until recently, this was only found in flagship models, but now you can find a number of solid mid-range and even budget models.
In addition, there are territorial restrictions. Due to the more developed infrastructure, wireless calls work well only in the capital and nearby regions (and not in all of them). In the provinces, you will have to wait until scientific and technical progress reaches them.
How do you know if your phone supports VoWiFi?
As mentioned earlier, not all models support the technology. You can check whether your phone can make calls via Wi-Fi or not in two ways.
Open the gadget’s “Settings” and type “Wi-Fi Calling” or “Wi-Fi Calling” in the search bar. If the system doesn’t find anything suitable, then, unfortunately, it doesn’t support it. Or go to your mobile operator’s website and find a list of compatible devices. If your device is among them, then everything is fine.
If you are just planning to buy a new device, it is better to immediately filter out the unnecessary using the appropriate parameter.
How to enable Wi-Fi calling
Enabling Wi-Fi calling on Android is very simple. To do this, you need to do the following:
- In the phone’s “Settings”, open the “SIM cards and mobile networks” tab;
- Select your number;
- Turn on the “Wi-Fi Calling” option
Some manufacturers, such as Samsung, have taken the trouble to add a separate button that enables and disables this function in one click. It is usually located in the top curtain, which opens with a swipe down.
As for “apple” smartphones, everything is complicated. Apple has limited the operation of iPhone network services in Russia. Therefore, VoWiFi technology is not available on devices from the fourteenth series and newer.
On previous lines, wireless calls are available in the normal mode. To enable it, you need to:
- In the gadget’s “Settings”, go to the “Cellular Communications” section;
- Turn on Wi-Fi Calling, then turn on Wi-Fi Calling, This iPhone.