Calls by Wi-Fi — is a technology that allows you to make voice calls over the internet instead of a mobile network. It is especially useful in areas with poor cellular coverage but stable Wi-FiFor example, in basements, country houses, or offices with thick walls, where the operator's signal is poor, but the internet works flawlessly.
This feature is available on most modern smartphones, but it's not always enabled by default. This article explains how to activate it. Wi-Fi calling on Android And iPhone, what requirements operators have, and what to do if the connection is interrupted or doesn't work at all. We'll also compare connection quality by Wi-Fi And 4G/5G — and we’ll find out in which cases the first option is preferable.
What is Wi-Fi calling and how does it work?
Technology Wi-Fi Calling (or VoWiFi) transmits voice traffic over the internet rather than through traditional cell towers. This is possible thanks to the protocol IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), which is integrated into modern networks 4G And 5GWhen you call on Wi-Fi, your voice is converted into digital data packets and transmitted through the router - just like when using Skype or WhatsApp, but with the difference that the call is made through the standard Phone application.
Key benefits:
- 📶 Stable connection in places where the cellular signal is weak or absent.
- 💰 Saving: if you have unlimited internet, calls to Wi-Fi do not waste tariff minutes (check with your operator!).
- 🌍 International calls at home rates (if the operator supports roaming) VoWiFi).
- ⚡ Quick Switching between Wi-Fi and cellular network without connection interruption (if the network supports
eSIMor VoLTE).
It is important to understand that Wi-Fi calling - this is not the same as internet telephony via Viber or ZoomYour real phone number is used here, not your Messenger account. Therefore, the person on the other end of the line will see your regular number, not your user ID.
Requirements for Wi-Fi calling: phone, operator, router
To use this feature, three key conditions must be met:
- Supported smartphone: most models iPhone starting from iPhone 6 And Android-devices based on Android 9 and newer (for example, Samsung Galaxy S8+, Google Pixel 3, Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 and others).
- Operator support: Not all mobile operators provide VoWiFiIn Russia, the function is actively supported. MTS, Beeline, Megaphone And Tele2, but tariff or regional restrictions may apply.
- Configured router: Wi-Fi- the network must have access to the Internet (not a local network without access to the global web) and support the protocol
IPv4/IPv6.
Additional nuances:
- 📱 On Android You may need to update your firmware to the latest version.
- 🔄 Some operators require activation of the service through your personal account or USSD command (for example,
*111*777#For MTS). - 🔒 If it is enabled on the phone VPN, VoWiFi may not work - turn it off before calling.
⚠️ Attention: Terms of Service Wi-Fi Calling may vary depending on the operator and region. For example, Megaphone limits the function for corporate tariffs, and Tele2 Requires additional functionality. Check details in your account or contact support.
| Operator | VoWiFi support | Is activation required? | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | Yes | Automatically for most tariffs | Works in roaming |
| Beeline | Yes | Wi-Fi Calling option required | Not available in all regions |
| Megaphone | Yes | Automatically for individuals | Does not work with corporate SIM cards |
| Tele2 | Yes | Activation via USSD is required. | Limitation on phone models |
How to enable Wi-Fi calling on iPhone
On iPhone function Wi-Fi Calling Configured through the standard system settings. The instructions are valid for iOS 15 and newer:
- Open
Settings→Telephone. - Select an item
Wi-Fi calling. - Activate the switch
Wi-Fi calling on this iPhone. - Confirm the activation by pressing
Turn onin the window that appears.
If the option is inactive:
- 🔄 Restart your phone.
- 📶 Make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi- networks with Internet access.
- 📱 Update iOS to the latest version in
Settings → General → Software Update. - 🆘 Contact your operator—the service may not be connected to your number.
After activation, the following message will appear in the status bar next to the operator's name: Wi-Fi or VoWiFiNow all outgoing calls will automatically use the internet if the cellular network signal is weak.
Make a test call to another number|Make sure "Wi-Fi" is displayed in the status bar|Check the connection quality (no noise or interruptions)|Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile network (the call should not be interrupted)-->
How to set up Wi-Fi calling on Android
On Android inclusion process Wi-Fi Calling This may vary depending on the phone manufacturer and firmware version. Let's look at the universal method and its specific features for popular brands.
Universal instructions:
- Open
Settings→Network and Internet(orConnections). - Select
Mobile network→Additionally(orSIM cards). - Find the item
Wi-Fi callingorVoWiFiand activate it. - Confirm enabling if prompted.
Features for different brands:
- 📱 Samsung:
Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi Calling. - 📱 Xiaomi:
Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → [select SIM] → Wi-Fi calling. - 📱 Google Pixel:
Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile network → Advanced → Wi-Fi Calling. - 📱 Huawei: You may need to install a proprietary application HiSuite to activate.
If the option is not in the menu, check:
- 🔄 Update your phone firmware.
- 📋 Make sure your model supports VoWiFi (the list can be found on the manufacturer's website).
- 🆘 Contact your operator - you may need to activate the service manually.
What should I do if there is no "Wi-Fi Calling" option on Android?
If you don't see the option in your phone settings Wi-Fi Calling, this could mean:
1. Your model does not support this function (relevant for budget devices or older firmware versions).
2. The operator does not provide the service for your tariff or region.
3. The phone is disabled IMS services (try resetting network settings in Settings → System → Reset → Reset network settings).
If nothing helps, use alternatives - WhatsApp, Viber or Google Voice for calls over the Internet.
How to check if Wi-Fi Calling is working
After setting up the feature, it's important to ensure it's actually active. Here are a few ways to check:
- Indicator in the status bar: on iPhone the inscription will appear
Wi-Finext to the operator's name, on Android — iconVoWiFiorWi-Fi Calling. - Test call: Call another number and turn off the mobile network (Airplane mode with the phone turned on) Wi-Fi). If the call goes through, the function works.
- Checking through settings: on Android go to
Settings → Mobile Network → Wi-Fi Calling— the green indicator should be on there.
If the call does not go through:
- 🔌 Check your internet connection (open your browser and load any page).
- 🔄 Restart your phone and router.
- 📡 Make sure your router isn't blocking
UDP ports(sometimes it is necessary to open500And4500For IPSec). - 🆘 Contact your operator - your number may be subject to temporary restrictions.
⚠️ Attention: If after activation Wi-Fi Calling Mobile Internet is lost, disable the function and check the settings APNSome operators require separate configuration to work simultaneously. VoWiFi And 4G.
Common problems and their solutions
Even after proper setup Wi-Fi calling may operate unstably. Let's look at typical errors and how to fix them.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The call is not made | No internet connection | Check it out Wi-Fi-network, reboot the router |
| The other person can't hear you. | Problems with the microphone or codec | Check your microphone in another application (for example, in a voice recorder) |
| The call is cut off | Unstable Wi-Fi-signal | Move closer to the router or switch to 5 GHz |
| The function does not turn on | The operator does not support VoWiFi | Check with support or change your tariff |
Additional tips:
- 🔋 If your phone's battery drains quickly when Wi-Fi Calling, turn off the function
Network searchin the battery settings. - 🌐 If calls only work through VPN, check the settings DNS on the router (try using
8.8.8.8or1.1.1.1). - 📵 If after activation VoWiFi SMS messages stopped coming, update your settings APN at the operator's.
Comparison: Wi-Fi Calling vs. Regular Network Calling
To understand when to use Wi-Fi calling, let's compare them with traditional voice calls 2G/3G/4G/5G:
| Criterion | Wi-Fi Calling | Regular calls |
|---|---|---|
| Connection quality | Depends on the internet speed (with a stable Wi-Fi - better) | Depends on network coverage (may be worse in buildings) |
| Battery consumption | A little higher due to active Wi-Fi-module | Below (especially in 2G) |
| Price | Free with unlimited internet | Spends minutes of the tariff (or unlimited according to the tariff) |
| Availability | Works only when connected to Wi-Fi | Works anywhere there is operator coverage |
| International calls | You can call at your home rate (if your operator supports it) | Expensive roaming or buying a local SIM card |
Critical point: If you travel frequently, Wi-Fi Calling You can save up to 80% on roaming costs, as calls will be charged as local ones (when connected to hotel or cafe Wi-Fi). However, please check with your operator to see if this option is supported in your country of residence.
When is it best to use Wi-Fi Calling:
- 🏠 At home or in the office with poor mobile network signal.
- 🌴 In country houses where there are no operator towers.
- ✈️ When traveling abroad (if the operator supports international VoWiFi).
When is it best to turn it off:
- 🚗 In motion (when switching between Wi-Fi-there may be breaks in the networks).
- 📶 In places with unstable internet (connection quality will be worse).
- 🔋 When the battery charge is low (the function consumes additional energy).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calling
Is it possible to make calls over Wi-Fi without a SIM card?
No, for Wi-Fi Calling An active SIM card with this feature from your carrier is required. However, you can use alternatives: WhatsApp, Skype or Google Voice, which work without a SIM card, but require registration.
Why does the other person hear an echo when making a call over Wi-Fi?
Echo occurs due to signal latency or incorrect codec operation. Try:
- Switch to another Wi-Fi-net.
- Turn it off and on again VoWiFi.
- Update your phone's firmware.
If the problem persists, contact your operator - there may be a problem on their end.
Can I receive calls over Wi-Fi on my tablet?
Yes, but only if the tablet supports it. eSIM or it has a slot for a SIM card with the service activated Wi-Fi Calling. For example, iPad Pro With cellular-model or Samsung Galaxy Tab S with support VoLTE.
Will Wi-Fi Calling work in the metro?
Yes, if it's heard in the metro Wi-Fi with internet access (for example, MTS Wi-Fi or Moscow Metro). However, some operators block VoWiFi in underground networks for technical reasons.
How to disable Wi-Fi calling?
On iPhone: Settings → Phone → Wi-Fi Calling → turn off the switch.
On Android: Settings → Mobile Network → Wi-Fi Calling → deactivate the function.