WiFi Calling is a term used for services that allow voice calls to be made over a WiFi network. The service allows users to make calls from any location where they can get an internet connection, as long as they are within range of a wireless router that supports the service. We’ve put together a full guide explaining what WiFi calling is and how to use it.
We’ve also tackled a common question that we get asked which is whether 4G/5G internet, such as SimRush, can support WiFi calling needs.
What is WiFi Calling and what are its benefits
What is WiFi calling?
WiFi Calling is a term that is used to describe a number of different features. Essentially, it allows you to make calls and send texts over a WiFi network instead of the mobile network.
This can be useful in a number of situations, including when you don’t have good reception or if you want to save on data usage. WiFi Calling is available on a number of different devices and mobile networks, so it’s worth checking to see if it’s an option for you.
What are the benefits of WiFi calling?
- You can make calls and send texts over a WiFi network instead of your mobile network.
- It can be useful in a number of situations, including when you don’t have access to 4G coverage for 4G calling or if you want to save on data usage on a pay as you go contract.
- WiFi Calling is widely available on a number of different devices and mobile networks.
- WiFi calling comes independent of your mobile network, it just requires a WiFi connection. This is great if you are on a limited data plan and don’t want to use lots of data by 4G calling.
- There are usually no extra charges for WiFi calling. Making a call over WiFi will cost the same as what you pay to ring someone using your mobile network.
- WiFi Calling allows you to use your current phone number, which is a big plus if you’ve had the same number for a long time or have built up a lot of contacts.
- It can be really helpful if you’re in a rural area with poor mobile phone signal and need to contact someone.
- If you don’t have unlimited minutes on your phone plan, you can use WiFi calling when you run out.
What are the cons of WiFi calling?
- You need a good WiFi connection to make calls or send text messages using WiFi.
- Cannot be used if there is no WiFi available to connect to.
- May not work with all phone models and settings.
- You may have to pay for the service from your mobile network provider. Although most UK networks offer using WiFi for calls and texts for no additional charge.
How does WiFi Calling work
WiFi Calling lets you make and receive calls and texts over a WiFi connection. This means you can stay connected even if there’s no phone signal or if you’re in an area with poor reception.
To use WiFi Calling, you need a compatible phone and a strong WiFi signal. Once you’ve set up WiFi Calling on your phone, you can make calls and texts over the WiFi network as normal.
If there’s no signal or your connection is poor, your call will automatically be routed over the WiFi network. You’ll see a ‘WiFi Calling’ icon on your screen when you’re connected.
You can use WiFi Calling in the UK and abroad. However, you’ll need a good WiFi connection to make calls abroad. Calls to international numbers will be charged at your standard rate.
If you lose your WiFi connection, your call will automatically be routed over the mobile network. You’ll need a good mobile signal to continue your conversation otherwise your call my drop out.
WiFi Calling is available on a range of phones and networks. To find out if your phone is compatible, check with your mobile network provider (e.g. Sky mobile, Virgin, talkmobile, Vodafone, ID mobile etc).
Which devices and networks support WiFi Calling
WiFi Calling is a great way to make calls and send texts over WiFi when you can’t get a signal or don’t have any minutes left on your phone plan. It’s available on iPhone 6 and newer, select Android devices, Windows Phones, and some BlackBerry devices. You’ll need an active data connection and a supported calling plan.
WiFi Calling is available on the following devices:
- iPhone 6 and newer
- Android smartphones (e.g. Samsung Galaxy)
- Windows Phones
- BlackBerry smartphones
- Google Pixel
To find out if your device supports WiFi Calling, contact your mobile network.
Not all mobile networks support WiFi Calling service. To see if your device and carrier support WiFi Calling, check the iPhone or Android support page or contact your carrier. Here are some UK networks that offer WiFi Calling:
- BT Mobile
- EE
- O2
- Vodafone
- ID Mobile
- Sky Mobile
- Virgin Mobile
When you make a call with WiFi Calling, your carrier uses VoIP (Voice over IP) to route your call through the internet instead of their mobile network. If you’re not on an unlimited data plan, we recommend that you connect to WiFi before making or receiving calls. That way, you won’t use up your data monthly allowance and incur additional charges.
You can call and text with WiFi Calling service even if you don’t have a mobile signal. However, you will need an active data connection to do so. If your data connection is weak or unavailable, your sound quality may be affected. To find out more about making calls over WiFi, contact your mobile network carrier.
Does 4G/5G broadband support WiFi calling
4G/5G broadband does support WiFi calling. If you have a 4G or 5G broadband connection, you can use your home broadband to make and receive calls with a compatible phone.
To find out if your phone is compatible, contact your network provider.
If you’re not sure how to set up WiFi Calling on your phone, contact your network provider. They’ll be able to help you get started.
What to do if you can’t make a call or send a text over WiFi
There are a few things you can do if you’re having trouble making calls or sending texts over WiFi:
- Make sure your phone is connected to a strong and reliable WiFi network. Reset the WiFi connection if possible.
- Check that the WiFi Calling feature is turned on in your phone’s settings. If you don’t have it turned on you will be using 4G calling instead.
- Check for any potential service outages in your area that could be affecting your ability to make calls or send texts.
- Restart your phone and try making a call or sending a text again.
- If you’re still having trouble, contact your phone’s manufacturer or carrier for further assistance.
How to enable WiFi Calling on your device
To enable on your device, follow these instructions:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Cellular/Mobile Data.
3. Tap WiFi Calling.
4. Turn on WiFi Calling.
5. If you are having troubles using WiFi calling after recently enabling it then restart your device to ensure the change has taken place.
You can also enable WiFi Calling in the Settings app by tapping Phone > WiFi Calling. You may also be able to set specific times to use WiFi calling and when not to depending on your device. If you want bespoke WiFi calling settings it might be best to contact your mobile provider to get them in place for you.
To use WiFi Calling, you will need a compatible device and an active WiFi connection. Please note that your carrier’s standard calling rates will apply to all calls made over WiFi. For more information, please contact your carrier.
Frequently asked questions about WiFi Calling
Do I need a special phone to use WiFi Calling?
You don’t need a special phone to use WiFi Calling, but your phone must be enabled for WiFi Calling in order to make and receive calls. For more information, you can contact your service provider.
Can I use WiFi Calling if I don’t have cellular service?
Yes, you can use WiFi Calling even if you don’t have cellular service. WiFi Calling is available on select devices and only works when you’re connected to a WiFi network. If you don’t have cellular service, you can still make calls and use other features that don’t require data.
To see if your device has WiFi Calling, go to Settings > Phone > WiFi Calling. If you don’t see the option to turn on WiFi Calling, your device doesn’t support it.
How do I know if my phone supports WiFi Calling?
Some phones will say ‘WiFi Calling’ in the status bar at the top of the screen. If your phone does not say this, go to Settings and look for a section called ‘Phone’. Under this section, there should be an option for WiFi Calling. If your phone does not have this option, it does not support WiFi Calling.
Can I use WiFi Calling to make calls internationally?
Yes, WiFi Calling lets you make and receive calls, including international calls, over a WiFi connection. For the best experience, connect to a strong WiFi signal.
Make sure your device is connected to a WiFi network:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap More Settings.
- Tap Calls.
- Turn on Make and receive calls over WiFi.
If you’re having trouble with WiFi Calling, here are a few things to check:
- Verify that airplane mode is turned off.
- Check that you have a strong WiFi signal.
- Verify that your device is not in Do Not Disturb mode.
- To learn more, go to Use WiFi Calling on your iPhone.
If you still can’t make or receive calls, contact your carrier.
Will my calls be connected using WiFi or cellular data?
WiFi calling uses an internet connection to make and receive calls, while cellular data calling uses the phone network. Depending on your location, the network conditions, and other factors, your phone might use either a cellular or WiFi connection for calls.
If you want to set up bespoke settings that ensures one or the other is always used in a certain situation, check your phone settings or contact your provider.
What happens if I lose my WiFi connection while making a call?
If you’re on the phone and your connection drops, your call will disconnect. However, if you have cellular data turned on and are in an area with good coverage, your call will be automatically transferred to a cellular data connection. If you don’t have 3G/4G coverage for you call to fall back on your call will drop out. You will likely need to move to a different area in order to make the call again.
How much data does WiFi calling use?
If you have concerns about how much data WiFi calling uses, you can always check the data usage meter in your phone’s settings to see how much data your calls are using or contact your provider. It is a good way of saving data usage if you are worried about breaching your plan data limit.
How do I turn off WiFi calling?
You can turn off WiFi calling in your phone’s settings. Once you turn it off, you won’t be able to make or receive calls over a WiFi connection. You can turn it off and on as many times as you need it will not permanently stay on or off.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading our blog post about WiFi Calling. We hope that you found this information helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them in the comment section below.
