Modern smartphones Honor are equipped with many useful functions, one of which is technology VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi). It allows voice calls over a wireless network, which is especially useful in areas with poor cellular signal. However, not all users require this mode, and sometimes it causes issues or even problems switching between networks.
Many device owners notice that when the base station signal is weak, the phone persistently tries to switch to Wi-Fi for calls, which can lead to connection drops or unexpected data consumption. In such situations, it becomes necessary to forcibly disable this feature. Below, we'll detail how to disable Wi-Fi calling on Honor and explore the nuances of this technology.
The disabling process may vary slightly depending on the shell version. Magic UI or EMUI, as well as your smartphone model. It's important to understand that completely disabling this option will revert your device to its default behavior, forcing it to use only the cellular network for voice calls, even if you're connected to your home router.
What is VoWiFi and why is it needed?
Technology VoWiFi It transmits voice traffic over an internet protocol, similar to how instant messaging apps work, but integrated into a standard phone book. For the user, this means you can receive calls on your regular number even if you're in a basement or a thick-walled building with no cell service but have access to wireless internet.
Telecom operators implement this feature to reduce the load on base stations and improve service quality in dense urban areas. However, if the Wi-Fi connection itself is unstable, voice packets may be lost, leading to distorted audio or even complete disconnection of the call. It's in these situations that users often look for a way to disable this feature.
It's worth noting that activating the feature on your smartphone is only half the battle. Your mobile operator must also support this technology and include it in your plan. Without support from your provider, the settings on your phone will be inactive or hidden.
Preparing your smartphone before changing settings
Before making any changes to your network system settings, it's recommended to perform a few simple steps. This will help avoid confusion and ensure that the issue is rooted in the settings and not a temporary software glitch.
First of all, check if your operating system is updated. Honor Update to the latest available version. Developers often make changes to menus and network module logic in security patches. Also, make sure you have access to the settings menu and administrator rights (which the owner has by default).
- 📱 Make sure your screen is unlocked and you are on the desktop.
- 📡 Check if the Wi-Fi module is currently activated.
- 🔋 Make sure the battery charge is at least 15-20% for comfortable operation.
If you plan to change network settings, it's a good idea to reboot your device first. This will clear the temporary network service cache and clear any network registration errors. After turning on your phone, wait 1-2 minutes for all system processes to fully load.
The main way to disable is through the settings menu
The easiest and safest method for disabling the feature is in the standard settings menu. The interface may vary slightly, but the logic remains the same for most models. Honor And HuaweiYou don't need any third-party apps or access to the engineering menu.
Open the main menu and find the gear icon. You're looking for the section responsible for wireless connections. In modern firmware versions, this is often called "Mobile Network" or "Wireless Networks." This is where the key SIM card settings are located.
☑️ Action Algorithm
After entering the SIM card selection menu (if you have two, select the one you want to change), scroll down the list. Look for an option that may be labeled "Wi-Fi Calling," "Wi-Fi Calling," or "VoWiFi." Next to it, there will be a toggle switch. Turn it off (gray).
If you don't see this option right away, it might be hidden in a submenu. Try looking for the "More" button or the three-dot icon in the corner of the screen. In some cases, the system prompts you to select a network priority: "Prefer mobile network" or "Prefer Wi-Fi network." Selecting the mobile option effectively disables wireless call priority.
Alternative paths in different shell versions
shell Magic UI and older versions EMUI Menu structures may vary. If you don't find the option you need in the location above, try searching through the settings. This is the fastest way to find a hidden item.
There's often a search bar at the top of the settings screen. Enter keywords there, such as "Wi-Fi calling," "VoWiFi," or simply "calling." The system will automatically suggest switching to the appropriate toggle. This method works even if the menu item was moved by the developers in an update.
| Shell version | Path to setup | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| Magic UI 4.0+ | Settings > Mobile Network > Wi-Fi Calling | Separate switch |
| EMUI 10/11 | Settings > Wireless & networks > Wi-Fi calling | May require a reboot |
| Old versions | Settings > Applications > Phone | A rare case, through the application settings |
In rare cases, when the feature is activated remotely by your operator, the switch on your phone may be blocked or missing. In these cases, the only solution is to contact your carrier's support team to disable the service at the plan level.
Why did the switch disappear after the update?
Sometimes after a firmware update, settings are reset or transferred. Check the "System and Updates" section; you may need to reactivate the service through the operator menu.
Setting network and SIM card priorities
Dual SIM smartphone owners should be especially careful. Network settings are applied individually to each SIM card. If you've disabled the feature on the primary SIM but forgot about the second one, the phone may still attempt to use Wi-Fi for calls from the second number.
Go to the SIM card management menu. Here you can not only disable VoWiFi but also configure which SIM card is used for mobile data by default. This is important, as VoWiFi technology uses the currently selected primary data channel, unless otherwise configured.
⚠️ Important: When using two SIM cards, make sure that the correct network type (e.g. 4G/LTE) is selected for both to avoid conflicts when switching between communication standards.
The "Smart Switching" option is also often available in this section. When enabled, the phone will automatically decide which network is best for making a call based on signal strength. Disabling this feature gives you complete control, but requires manually checking the connection status before an important call.
Some users prefer to completely disable the second SIM card during important calls to eliminate any background network switching processes that could theoretically affect the stability of the primary line connection.
Using the engineering menu and operator codes
Advanced users can manage network settings through the engineering menu or special USSD codes. However, this method requires caution, as changing incorrect parameters can lead to unstable operation of the communication module.
In the engineering menu (which is often accessed via code ##4636## (or similar, depending on the model) you can find the "Phone Information" section. Here, in the list of options (Set Preferred Network Type), you can select modes that don't support VoWiFi, such as LTE-only without IMS voice services. However, this may also disable regular 4G calls (VoLTE).
##4636## (example code, does not work on all models)A safer option is to use your operator's USSD commands. Each provider (MTS, Beeline, Megafon, Tele2) has its own codes for managing services. For example, disabling the "Wi-Fi Calling" service can be done with a command like this: 111...#The exact code must be verified on your operator's official website.
⚠️ Warning: Making changes to the engineering menu may void your warranty or impair the radio module's operation. Use this method only if standard methods fail.
Please remember that settings made via USSD codes are applied on the operator's side and will remain in effect even after resetting your phone or replacing the SIM card with another device.
Possible problems and their solutions
After disabling the feature, you may encounter a situation where the phone icon with the Wi-Fi symbol still appears in the status bar. This may indicate that the switching process is not yet complete or that a device reboot is required.
If the icon persists, try turning on airplane mode for 10-15 seconds and then turning it off. This will force the phone to re-register with the carrier's network and update the displayed service status. Also, check that the function isn't enabled in the Phone app (dialing) by tapping the three dots in the corner and selecting "Settings."
- 🔄 Perform a full reboot of your smartphone.
- 📶 Reset network settings in the "System" > "Reset" > "Reset network settings" menu.
- 🗑️ Delete the operator profile if it was installed manually.
In some cases, the issue stems from an outdated version of the phone app. Go to the app store (AppGallery or Google Play), search for the "Phone" app or "Google Play Services," and check for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does disabling VoWiFi affect indoor connection quality?
Yes, if you have a very poor cellular signal in your area, but good Wi-Fi, then after disabling this feature, the call quality may deteriorate, since the phone will stop using the Internet channel to transmit voice.
Do operators charge extra for VoWiFi?
Typically, a minute of Wi-Fi calls is charged according to your basic plan, just like a regular minute. However, if you're roaming, conditions may vary, and Wi-Fi calls may be free or cheaper. Check with your carrier.
Is it possible to disable VoWiFi for only one SIM card?
Yes, in the "Mobile Network" settings, parameters are configured separately for SIM 1 and SIM 2. You can leave the feature active on one card and disable it on the other.
What should I do if regular calls disappear after disconnecting?
This is a rare occurrence and may indicate a problem with IMS services. Try resetting your network settings to factory defaults or contact your carrier to replace your SIM card with a newer one.