When there is inadequate cell service, Wi-Fi calling allows your smartphone to automatically change to Wi-Fi to make or receive calls. The majority of phones come with a simple option for Wi-Fi calling, which uses your regular number. Poor cell signals force your phone to use more power to strengthen the connection. Wi-Fi calling can enhance call quality while extending the life of your smartphone’s battery.
In this article, we’re going to discuss what exactly Wi-Fi calling is and how to use it.
What Is Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling functions similarly to other voice over IP (VoIP) programs, such as Viber and WhatsApp. However, it’s distinguished by a few crucial features.
- For Wi-Fi calling, you don’t need any specific apps to make and receive calls or send and receive messages, as with FaceTime, WhatsApp, Viper, Skype, etc. You can just use the messaging app or built-in dial pad on your phone to make Wi-Fi calls, just like normal calls.
- No additional apps are required for the person you are attempting to call or message. The individual or number you’re calling will receive the call on their phone just like you would if you made a normal call. This is because Wi-Fi calls and texts are ultimately sent over a mobile network (after going across your wireless connection). They are also not required to have any specific apps on their phones.
- Text messages and phone calls appear to be from your number. Your calls and texts will appear to others who receive them as coming from your phone. This is especially useful for 2FA and account registration services that don’t accept VoIP numbers.
- You may dial standard phone numbers, including landlines and toll-free calls. Wi-Fi calling allows you to communicate with more people than just other cell phone users. Similar to using a cellular connection, you can call landline phones, customer support numbers, and emergency services.
How Does It Work
Similar to Wi-Fi VoIP, Wi-Fi calling operates by sending cellular data packets across a Wi-Fi connection and the internet. Data is transferred from the internet to the cellular network, then back to the caller. The smartphone needs to support Wi-Fi calling for it to function. The service is an updated version of the Generic Access Network (GAN) protocol.
Firstly, users must confirm that Wi-Fi calling is supported by both their provider and phone. Each carrier may have different specifications. When the Wi-Fi calling capability is turned on, the device uses it whenever it is connected to Wi-Fi. Voice over LTE (VoLTE) or a symbol of a mobile receiver with a Wi-Fi symbol may appear in the notification bar of the phone along with the usual call and chat log entries for calls and messages.
A user can also put their phone in airplane mode to guarantee that their phone will opt for Wi-Fi calling. A call may be lost if it leaves the range of a Wi-Fi router, depending on the provider, connection, and phone.
Wi-Fi Calling Pros
There are several benefits to using Wi-Fi calling:
- When cellular service is poor, it assists people in connecting to a phone call or message.
- No additional number is required, just call using the person’s phone number.
- Simple to set up.
- When turned on, it operates automatically.
- If there is a Wi-Fi network nearby, it can reduce or eliminate the need for cellular subscriptions completely.
- Because of the increased Wi-Fi bandwidth, Wi-Fi calling can handle texts.
- In most cases, the service is free.
How to Turn Wi-Fi Calling On
To activate this feature on your iPhone, do the following:
- Go to “Settings.”
- Select “Phone.”
- Choose “Wi-Fi calling.”
- On the slider, switch the Wi-Fi calling on this iphone “On.”
- Click on “Enable” to activate the feature.
Additional FAQs
When making a call via Wi-Fi, will I consume data?
Calls placed via Wi-Fi utilize the data provided by your router. Your cell phone plan’s primary data balance won’t be used, though.
How much data is used during Wi-Fi calls?
Although it fluctuates, you can estimate that a call will use roughly 1 MB of data per minute and a video call will use 6–8 MB of data per minute.
Does every phone allow Wi-Fi calling?
No. You must have a phone that supports VoLTE and has Wi-Fi calling turned on. Check this list to see if your phone is HD Voice-capable.
How quick must my Wi-Fi connection be?
Your connection will function better if you have more bandwidth available. At least 1Mbps should be required to make calls. Wi-Fi can support calls at speeds of up to 80 Kbps, but the quality will be worse.
Explore a New Era of Calling
If there’s no signal, Wi-Fi calling can be a helpful solution for getting your calls through. This feature is already used regularly by many people and will be in the future.
Do you use the Wi-Fi calling feature? Do you believe it’s the future of communication? Let us know in the comments section below.
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