Wi-Fi Calling on Samsung: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Set It Up

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your mobile network suddenly goes out and you urgently need to make a call? Or have you ever been stuck in a basement where you can't even get a carrier signal? In such cases, technology comes to the rescue. Wi-Fi calls (VoWiFi), which is supported by modern smartphones SamsungThis feature allows you to make and receive calls over a wireless network, even if there is no cellular service.

But how exactly does Wi-Fi calling work on devices? SamsungWhich models support this technology, and how to set it up correctly? In this article, we'll cover all the details—from operating principles to step-by-step activation instructions. You'll also learn which operators in Russia and the CIS support VoWiFi and what pitfalls you might encounter when using the feature. If you frequently travel to areas with poor coverage or simply need a backup connection, this article is for you.

What is Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi) and how does it work?

Technology VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) allows voice calls to be transmitted over an internet connection instead of traditional cellular networks. Essentially, it's an analogue VoLTE, but instead of 4G/5G, it uses Wi-Fi. The main advantage is a stable connection in places where mobile signal is weak or nonexistent: underground parking lots, shopping centers with thick walls, and remote summer cottages.

How does it work technically? When you make a call over Wi-Fi, your Samsung Establishes a connection to the operator's server via the internet, not via cell towers. Voice traffic is encrypted and transmitted using the protocol IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), which guarantees quality comparable to regular calls. Moreover:

• 📶 No SIM card binding: The call goes through your number, but uses Wi-Fi instead of the cellular network.
• 🔒 Encryption: data is protected as in mobile networks (standard SRTP).
• 🔄 Automatic switch: If Wi-Fi goes down, your smartphone can switch to the cellular network (if available).
• 💰 No extra charge: operators usually do not charge for VoWiFi (it is charged like a regular call).

It is important to understand that VoWiFi is not the same as instant messengers (like WhatsApp or Viber). This uses your real phone number, not an app account. This means:

• ✅ Calls are sent to your standard number (no need to ask your callers to call you via messenger).
• ✅ Works with any contacts, even if they don't have a smartphone or internet access.
• ❌ Not all operators support VoWiFi in Russia and the CIS—this is a key point we'll discuss below.

Which Samsung smartphones support Wi-Fi calling?

The VoWiFi feature is not available on all devices. SamsungIt depends on:

1. Smartphone models — need support IMS at the hardware level.
2. Android versions — usually required Android 9.0 Pie or newer.
3. Firmware from the operator - Some branded devices may have limitations.

Here is the list of episodes Samsung, which guaranteed support VoWiFi (subject to up-to-date software):

• 📱 Galaxy S: starting from S8 (2017) and newer (S9, S10, S20, S21, S22, S23, S24).
• 📱 Galaxy Note: With Note 8 and above (Note 9, Note 10, Note 20).
• 📱 Galaxy A: models of the middle and premium segments — A50, A51, A52, A53, A54, A70, A71, A72, A73.
• 📱 Galaxy Z (folding): all models (Z Flip, Z Fold).
• 📱 Galaxy XCover: XCover 5, XCover 6 Pro (for corporate users).

If your model isn't on the list, it doesn't mean VoWiFi isn't working. For example, some devices Galaxy M or Galaxy J may support the feature after a firmware update. To check:

1. Open Settings → Connections → Mobile networks.
2. See if there is an item Wi-Fi calling or VoWiFi.
3. If there is no option, update the software to the latest version.

How to find out the Android version on a Samsung?

Open Settings → About phone → Android versionIf the version is below 9.0, VoWiFi is most likely not supported.

Attention! On some devices the feature may be hidden due to:

• 🔧 Firmware from the operator (For example, MTS or Beeline sometimes VoWiFi is blocked).
• 🌍 Regional restrictions (this function may not be available on imported models).

How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on Samsung: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your smartphone supports VoWiFi, you can activate the feature in just a few steps. These instructions are suitable for most models. Samsung on Android 9.0+:

1. Open Settings and go to the section Connections.
2. Select Mobile Networks (on some models - SIM cards and mobile networks).
3. Find the "Wi-Fi Calling" option** (may be called VoWiFi or Wi-Fi Calling).
4. Activate the switch and confirm activation (you may be asked to accept the operator's terms and conditions).
5. Select operating mode:
   • Wi-Fi is preferred — calls will be made via the Internet, if it is available.
   • Mobile network is preferred — Wi-Fi is used only when there is no signal.
   • Wi-Fi only - calls are only possible via wireless network (not recommended).

Confirm your emergency call address (required for services 112, 911, etc.).

Once activated, an icon will appear in the status bar (upper right corner of the screen) VoWiFi or Wi-Fi CallingIf the icon is missing, but the function is enabled, try restarting your phone.

Connected to a stable Wi-Fi network|SIM card is active and supports VoWiFi|Phone is updated to the latest software version|Operator supports the technology-->

Attention! On some models (eg, Galaxy S20 with firmware from MTS) paragraph Wi-Fi calling may be absent. In this case:

⚠️ Try entering the code in the dialer ##4636##, choose Phone information and find the line VoWiFi provisionedIf it's there 1 — This feature is supported but hidden. Activating it may require a factory reset or updating to the international software version.

Which operators in Russia and the CIS support VoWiFi?

Unfortunately, not all mobile operators offer Wi-Fi calling. At the time of writing, the situation is as follows:

If your carrier isn't on the list, it doesn't mean VoWiFi isn't working. Some regional providers (for example, Tinkoff Mobile or SberMobile) may provide the feature in test mode. To clarify:

• 📞 Call the operator's support team and ask about support VoWiFi.
• 🌐 Check the official website in the "Services" or "Technology" section.
• 🔄 Insert a SIM card from another operator (for example, MTS) and try to enable the function.

Important! Even if the operator supports VoWiFi, there may be limitations:

• 📍 Regional restrictions: The function may only work in large cities.
• 📵 Roaming: VoWiFi is often disabled when roaming (depending on agreements between operators).
• 🔄 Switching between Wi-Fi and 4G: When switching between networks, the call may be interrupted.

Samsung Wi-Fi Calling Problems and How to Fix Them

Despite its convenience, VoWiFi can be unstable. Here the most common problems and ways to eliminate them:

1. The function does not turn on or is missing from the settings.

Possible reasons:

• 📱 Outdated firmware (update the software in Settings → Software Update).
• 📶 The operator does not support VoWiFi (check the table above).
• 🔧 SIM card is not compatible (need USIM or eSIM).

Solution: Try inserting a SIM card from a different operator (for example, MTS) or contact support.

2. Calls are dropped or the connection quality is poor

Possible reasons:

• 📶 Weak Wi-Fi signal (check the speed in Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi).
• 🔄 Frequent switching between Wi-Fi and mobile networks.
• 🛠️ Problems on the operator's side (e.g. server overload).

Solution:

• Connect to a different Wi-Fi network (for example, switch from 2.4 GHz on 5 GHz).
• In the VoWiFi settings, select the mode Wi-Fi is preferred.
• Turn it off Wi-Fi Assist (if any) to avoid automatic switching.

3. Unable to make an emergency call (112, 911)

By law, VoWiFi should support emergency calls, but sometimes there are glitches. What to do:

• 📍 Make sure the correct address is specified in the VoWiFi settings (required for emergency services).
• 🔄 Switch to a mobile network if Wi-Fi is unstable.
• 📞 As a last resort, use instant messengers (for example, WhatsApp to contact emergency services).

Attention! If you lose mobile data or stop receiving SMS messages after enabling VoWiFi, there's likely a problem with your APN settings. Try:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile networks → Access point names (APN).
2. Select your operator profile (e.g. internet.mts.ru For MTS).
3. Save the settings and restart your phone.

VoWiFi vs. VoLTE vs. Messengers: Which is Better for Calls?

Many users are confused VoWiFi with other voice communication technologies. Let's figure out how they differ and which one to choose in different situations:

So what should you choose? Here are some quick recommendations:

• 🏙️ In a city with good 4G → use VoLTE (best quality).
• 🏠 At home or in the office with Wi-Fi → VoWiFi (more reliable if the operator supports it).
• 🌍 Abroad or roaming → messengers (cheaper) or VoWiFi (if the operator allows).
• 🚇 In the subway or basement → VoWiFi (if there is Wi-Fi) or instant messengers.

Interesting fact: on some models Samsung (For example, Galaxy S22) can be used VoWiFi and VoLTE simultaneouslyThis means that the phone will automatically select the best connection channel—Wi-Fi or 4G—depending on the situation.

Security and privacy when making Wi-Fi calls

Many users are concerned about the security of Wi-Fi calls. Let's take a look at what data is transmitted and how it's protected:

1. Traffic encryption

VoWiFi uses the protocol SRTP (Secure Real-time Transport Protocol), which encrypts voice traffic. This means that:

• 🔐 Your conversations are protected from eavesdropping over Wi-Fi.
• 🛡️ Data is transmitted over a secure channel, just like in banking applications.

However there are still vulnerabilities:

• 🕵️ If you are connected to public Wi-Fi (for example, in a cafe), theoretically the traffic can be intercepted (but decrypting without keys is almost impossible).
• 📡 If the operator stores call logs, they may be available upon request from law enforcement agencies.

2. Geolocation and emergency calls

When you enable VoWiFi, your phone may ask for your address for emergency services. This data:

• 📍 Stored by the operator and can be transferred to emergency services (112, 911).
• 🔄 Updated when you change your Wi-Fi network (for example, if you move).

Important! If you don't provide an address, emergency calls over VoWiFi may not work.

3. How to protect your data

To minimize risks:

• 🔒 Use VPN when connected to public Wi-Fi (but this may degrade the connection quality).
• 📵 Turn off VoWiFi if you are not using it (in your mobile network settings).
• 🔄 Update your phone's firmware regularly (security patches fix vulnerabilities).

Attention! If you use VoWiFi abroad, your operator can see your location using your Wi-Fi network's IP address. This isn't always critical, but it's worth keeping in mind the potential for tracking.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calling on Samsung

❓ Is it possible to make calls over Wi-Fi without a SIM card?

No, VoWiFi requires an active SIM card that supports the technology. Without a SIM card, calls are only possible via messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.).

❓ Why isn't there a "Wi-Fi Calling" option on my Samsung?

There are several reasons:

• Your model does not support VoWiFi (check the list above).
• Outdated firmware installed (update software).
• The operator does not support the technology (try inserting a SIM card from another provider).
• The smartphone is locked by the operator (for example, a used phone from Tinkoff Mobile).

If nothing helps, try resetting your network settings (Settings → General Management → Reset → Reset Network Settings).

❓ Will Wi-Fi calls be charged like regular calls?

Yes, VoWiFi calls are charged to your plan just like regular calls. If you have unlimited calls, you won't have to pay extra. The exception is roaming: some carriers may charge for VoWiFi calls abroad.

❓ Can I use VoWiFi on a plane?

Technically yes, but:

• ✈️ Most airlines prohibit Wi-Fi calls during a flight (even if your phone supports VoWiFi).
• 📵 In Airplane mode, VoWiFi is disabled automatically.
• 💬 You can use instant messengers (if there is Wi-Fi on board).

❓ Why does the other person hear an echo when making a call over Wi-Fi?

Echo in VoWiFi is usually caused by:

• 🔊 Poor Wi-Fi network (problems with ping or packets).
• 📱 Phone microphone or speaker malfunctions.
• 🔄 Conflict with Bluetooth headset (turn it off and check the sound).

Try:

1. Reconnect to another Wi-Fi network.
2. Disable Bluetooth devices.
3. Call via mobile network (VoLTE) for comparison.