Wi-Fi Calling: What It Is and How to Enable It on Your Smartphone

What is Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling is a feature available on most smartphones that enables you to make and receive calls and texts using a Wi-Fi network instead of relying on a cellular connection. This can be particularly beneficial in areas with poor cellular reception.

How Does Wi-Fi Calling Work?

Wi-Fi calling operates through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which is the same technology that applications like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger use for internet-based calls. This method allows your phone to use the internet for calls, bypassing traditional cellular networks.

Requirements for Wi-Fi Calling:

1. A stable Wi-Fi connection.
2. A smartphone with Wi-Fi calling capability.
3. A mobile service provider that supports Wi-Fi calling.

Steps in Wi-Fi Calling:

1. Gear Up: Connect your Wi-Fi-enabled device to a Wi-Fi network.
2. Initiate: Your call or message routes through your carrier’s servers using the Wi-Fi network.
3. Connect: The carrier’s servers connect your call or message to the recipient’s network.
4. Receive: The recipient gets your call or message through their network.
5. Full Circle: Your conversation flows back and forth over the Wi-Fi connection.

VoIP & Wi-Fi Calling: The Difference

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol):

• Transforms your voice into digital signals for internet transmission.
• Utilized by apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Meet.

Wi-Fi Calling:

• Integrated into smartphones by carriers using VoIP technology.
• Automatically switches to internet calls when connected to Wi-Fi, without needing a separate app.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wi-Fi Calling

Advantages:

• Improved Coverage: Extends network reach, enabling calls in areas with weak cellular signals.
• Cost-Effective: Avoids roaming charges, especially for international calls.
• Reliable Home Connection: Utilizes close proximity to Wi-Fi routers, often ensuring better signal than distant cellular towers.
• Seamless Transition: Automatically switches between cellular and Wi-Fi networks.
• No Additional Apps: Built into your device, no need for extra apps.

Disadvantages:

• Dependent on Internet Speed: Poor Wi-Fi can lead to dropped calls or low-quality audio.
• Limited Availability: Not all carriers or phones support Wi-Fi calling.
• Power Consumption: Drains battery faster when connected to Wi-Fi for long periods.
• Emergency Services Limitation: May not provide accurate location information for emergency calls in some regions.

How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on Your Phone

For Apple Devices:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Phone or Cellular.
3. Select Wi-Fi Calling.
4. Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to ON.

For Android Devices:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Connections, Network & Internet, or Cellular Networks (depending on your device).
3. Find and toggle Wi-Fi Calling to ON.

When to Use Wi-Fi Calling

Wi-Fi calling is particularly useful in scenarios such as:

• Areas with poor cellular reception (basements, thick-walled buildings, rural locations).
• Overseas travel to avoid roaming charges.
• Preserving cellular data or limited voice minutes.

Identifying a Wi-Fi Call

You can usually tell if you’re on a Wi-Fi call by looking for indicators on your phone:

• Status Bar Icon: A Wi-Fi symbol or “Wi-Fi Call” text.
• Call Screen: A label like “Wi-Fi calling” during the call.
• Settings Verification: Checking if Wi-Fi calling is enabled in your phone’s settings.

Choosing the Type of Call

You can control whether your calls use Wi-Fi or cellular networks:

• Enable/Disable Wi-Fi Calling: Toggle Wi-Fi calling in your phone’s settings.
• Prefer Wi-Fi or Cellular: Set preferences in the Wi-Fi calling section.
• Manual Network Selection: Use airplane mode with Wi-Fi to force Wi-Fi calls.

JustCall for Business Calls

JustCall, a VoIP service, uses Wi-Fi for internet-based business calls on various devices. Benefits include:

• Flexibility to work from anywhere.
• Cost savings on international calls.
• Often better call quality.
• Simple setup and usage.
• Additional features like call forwarding and CRM integration.

Conclusion

Wi-Fi calling allows you to use the internet for phone calls, providing an alternative to cellular networks. It’s easy to set up, often cost-effective, and helps maintain connectivity in areas with poor cellular reception