Calls via Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi Calling) from MTS Allows you to talk even where cell phone coverage is weak or unavailable—in the subway, basements, or country houses. The technology uses your internet connection to transmit voice, preserving your phone number and plan. But how do you properly activate this feature if your carrier supports it, but your smartphone doesn't? Or vice versa?
In this article you will find Current methods for enabling Wi-Fi Calling on MTS for iPhone (including iOS 17) and Android (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel, etc.)We'll also address common errors that can prevent the feature from working. We won't limit ourselves to generic advice—we'll cover only proven methods that take into account the latest updates from carriers and smartphone manufacturers.
What is Wi-Fi Calling and why is it needed?
Wi-Fi Calling (or VoWiFi) is a technology that allows you to make calls and send text messages over a wireless network instead of traditional cell towers. Its main advantage is stable connection in areas with poor coverage. MTS, For example:
- 🏢 In office buildings with thick walls
- 🚇 In the metro (where Wi-Fi is supported)
- 🏡 In country houses or villages
- ✈️ Airports and shopping malls with open Wi-Fi
In this case:
- ✅ Your phone number remains the same (no need to install separate messengers)
- ✅ Billing is based on your base rate MTS (the Internet package is not used up)
- ✅ Connection quality is often better than via a cellular network
However, there are some nuances: not all smartphones and tariffs support the function. For example, Wi-Fi Calling may not be available on older models Samsung Galaxy J or Xiaomi Redmi manufactured before 2019. The operator also sometimes blocks the service for corporate plans.
Requirements for activating Wi-Fi Calling on MTS
Before setting up, check whether your equipment and tariff comply with the conditions MTS:
| Criterion | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Device | iPhone 6 and newer (iOS 12+), Samsung Galaxy S8/Note 8 and newer, Google Pixel 2 and newer, Xiaomi Mi 9 and newer (with MIUI 12+) |
| operating system | Android 9+ or iOS 12+ (some models require iOS 13+) |
| Tariff plan | Any tariff MTS, except for corporate and some archival ones (for example, "Super MTS 2015") |
| SIM card | Any active SIM card MTS (including eSIM). No need to replace with a special card. |
| Wi-Fi network | Any network with internet access (home, public, mobile hotspot) |
⚠️ Attention: If your smartphone was purchased abroad (for example, iPhone from the USA or Samsung (from Europe), this feature may be disabled at the firmware level. In this case, manual activation via the engineering menu or a firmware update will be required.
Also note that MTS The list of supported devices is updated periodically. If your model is on the official list, but the feature doesn't work, try updating the firmware or contacting support at 0890.
How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone (iOS)
On iPhone setting Wi-Fi Calling It takes no more than a minute if your device is supported. Follow the instructions:
- Open
Settings→Cellular communications. - Select
MTS SIM card(if there are several). - Tap on the item
Wi-Fi Calling. - Activate the switch
Wi-Fi Calling on this iPhone. - In the window that appears, click
Turn on.
After activation, the following message will appear in the status bar (next to the network indicator): MTS Wi-FiIf it is not there, check:
- 📶 Connect to Wi-Fi (even if the internet is working, sometimes you need to reconnect)
- 📱 iOS Updates (go to
Settings → General → Software Update) - 🔄 Restart your phone (sometimes resetting network settings helps)
Settings → General → Transfer or reset iPhone)
Update iOS to the latest version|
Make sure your SIM card is active and not blocked|
Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network (not mobile internet)|
Restart your iPhone before setup-->
⚠️ Attention: On some iPhone with jailbreak or modified firmware Wi-Fi Calling may not work. If you have previously made changes to system files, try resetting network settings or restoring iOS via iTunes.
Activating Wi-Fi Calling on Android (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google, etc.)
On Android The activation process varies depending on the manufacturer and version of the shell. Below are general instructions that take into account the specifics of popular brands.
For Samsung (One UI)
- Open
Settings→Connections. - Select
Mobile networks. - Tap on
Wi-Fi Calling(orWi-Fi calling). - Activate the switch and confirm switching on.
For Xiaomi (MIUI)
- Go to
Settings→SIM cards and mobile networks. - Select a SIM card MTS.
- Click
Wi-Fi calling. - Turn on the function and select the mode
Prefer Wi-Fi.
For Google Pixel (Stock Android)
- Open
Settings→Network and Internet. - Select
Mobile network→Additionally. - Activate
Wi-Fi Calling. - Enter the emergency call address (this will be filled in automatically by default).
If the point Wi-Fi Calling not on the menu, means:
- 📱 Your model is not supported (check the list on the website) MTS)
- 🔄 Firmware update required (go to
Settings → System → System Update) - 🔧 The function is hidden in the engineering menu (code required)
##4636##, but it's risky without experience)
What should I do if there is no Wi-Fi Calling option in the settings?
If the option is missing from your Android smartphone menu Wi-Fi Calling, try:
1. Install the latest firmware version (via Settings → Software Update).
2. Reset network settings (Settings → System → Reset → Reset Mobile Network).
3. Insert the SIM card into another slot (if the phone has two slots).
4. Contact support MTS by number 0890 and check whether the function is blocked for your tariff.
If nothing helps, your device most likely does not support the technology at the hardware level.
⚠️ Attention: On some smartphones Huawei And Honor function Wi-Fi Calling can be called VoWiFi or Calls via Wi-FiAlso, these devices sometimes require additional configuration in the menu. Mobile Network → Additional Settings.
Checking Wi-Fi Calling and Troubleshooting
After activation, make sure the function works correctly:
- Connect to Wi-Fi and turn off mobile data (this is important for the test!).
- Call another number (for example,
0890- support MTS). - If the call has gone through, an icon should appear in the status bar.
Wi-Fior an inscriptionMTS Wi-Fi.
Typical problems and their solutions:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| There is no Wi-Fi Calling option in the settings. | Outdated firmware or incompatible device | Please update your software or check your model in the list. MTS |
| Calls don't go through even though there's Wi-Fi. | Blocking at the tariff or router level | Call support back MTS or reboot the router |
| The Wi-Fi Calling icon flashes and disappears. | Unstable internet connection | Connect to a different network or restart your phone |
| The other person can't hear you or hears a robot. | Poor Wi-Fi quality (high latency) | Move closer to the router or use a 5 GHz network |
If calls don't go through, and everything is enabled in the settings, try:
- 🔄 Restart your smartphone and router.
- 📶 Temporarily disable VPN (if using).
- 🔧 Reset APN settings (
Settings → Mobile network → Access point names (APN) → Reset).
Wi-Fi Calling Abroad: Does Roaming Work?
One of the key advantages Wi-Fi Calling It's possible to make calls at your home rate even when abroad. However, there are some nuances:
- ✅ If you are connected to Russian Wi-Fi (for example, via a VPN or a local network with a Russian IP), calls are charged as within the country.
- ⚠️ If Wi-Fi local (for example, in a hotel or cafe abroad), MTS may recognize your location and apply roaming rates.
- ❌ In some countries (for example, the USA, UAE) operators block Wi-Fi Calling for foreign SIM cards.
To avoid unexpected expenses:
- Before your trip, please check the roaming conditions with MTS (number
0890). - Use trusted Wi-Fi networks (for example, in hotels with Russian owners).
- Turn it off Wi-Fi Calling, if you are not sure about the pricing.
⚠️ Attention: In the EAEU countries (Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia) Wi-Fi Calling It can work as intra-network roaming—check rates in advance! For example, a call from Kazakhstan to a Russian number via local Wi-Fi is sometimes charged as an international call.
Wi-Fi Calling Alternatives: What to Do If the Feature Isn't Available
If your smartphone or tariff does not support Wi-Fi Calling, consider alternative ways to make calls over the Internet:
- 📱 MTS Connect — the official application from the operator for Wi-Fi calls (available in App Store And Google Play).
- 💬 WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber — messengers that support voice calls (but the other person must also use them).
- 📞 Google Voice or Skype — for international calls (paid minutes or subscription).
- 🔄 Call forwarding to another number (for example, to WhatsApp via conditional redirection).
Application MTS Connect especially convenient because:
- Saves your number MTS as caller ID.
- Calls are charged at the basic rate (no additional charges).
- Works even on older smartphones (requires Android 5+ or iOS 10+).
To set up MTS Connect:
- Download the app from the official store.
- Register with a number MTS.
- Confirm your account via SMS.
- Allow access to microphone and contacts.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi Calling on MTS
My phone supports Wi-Fi Calling, but it won't turn on. What's wrong?
Possible reasons:
- Your tariff plan MTS does not support the service (check in your personal account or by number)
0890). - The SIM card is not activated or blocked (try restarting the phone).
- The phone has a custom firmware installed (it needs to be restored to stock software).
- The operator has temporarily suspended the service for your region (rare, but it happens).
If nothing helps, contact the salon MTS with a passport to verify the subscriber's data.
Will Wi-Fi Calling work in the metro?
Yes, but with some reservations:
- In the Moscow metro Wi-Fi Calling works at stations and in tunnels where there is network coverage MTS Wi-Fi.
- In the metro systems of other cities (St. Petersburg, Kazan, etc.) coverage may be absent.
- Connection quality depends on network load; interruptions are possible during rush hours.
For stable operation, enable it in the settings Prefer Wi-Fi Calling (if there is such a clause).
Is it possible to use Wi-Fi Calling without a SIM card (e.g. with eSIM)?
Yes, Wi-Fi Calling fully compatible with eSIM from MTSThe main requirement is that the eSIM be activated and linked to a supported plan. Setting it up is no different from setting up a regular SIM card:
- Activate eSIM via the app My MTS.
- Turn on Wi-Fi Calling in the phone settings (select virtual SIM).
- Wait 1-2 minutes until the indicator appears
MTS Wi-Fi.
If your eSIM doesn't appear in the list of SIM cards, update your phone's firmware or reinstall the eSIM profile.
Are calls via Wi-Fi Calling counted as internet traffic?
No, Wi-Fi Calling Doesn't use up your internet plan. Calls are charged as regular minutes according to your plan. MTS. However:
- If you call via instant messengers (WhatsApp, Viber), traffic is debited from the Internet package.
- If your Wi-Fi network is managed by a provider with limited data usage (such as in a hotel), the network owner may be charged for outgoing data usage (but not you!).
How do I disable Wi-Fi Calling if I don't need it?
To deactivate the feature:
- On iPhone:
Settings → Cellular → Wi-Fi Calling→ turn off the switch. - On Android:
Settings → Mobile Network → Wi-Fi Calling→ deactivate the option.
Once disabled, calls will only go through the cellular network. If the indicator MTS Wi-Fi continues to display, please restart your phone.