Modern smartphones Samsung Mobile phones offer a variety of features to improve connection quality, including Wi-Fi calling. This technology allows you to make calls in areas with poor cellular coverage using a wireless internet connection. However, not all users find it convenient to have their phone automatically switch between networks, or they simply prefer to use standard cellular service.
In this article we will take a detailed look at How to disable Wi-Fi calling on Samsung in various ways. You'll learn about the intricacies of customizing the One UI interface, the differences between models of different years, and situations where this feature may interfere with the stable operation of your device. We'll also cover issues of data saving and security so you can make an informed decision about using this feature.
The settings menu interface may differ slightly depending on the operating system version. Android and shells One UIDespite the visual differences, the functionality remains the same across most devices from the South Korean manufacturer. Let's move on to the practical steps for managing this setting.
Main reasons for disabling the VoWiFi function
Function VoWiFi Voice over Wi-Fi (Voice over Wi-Fi) is designed to ensure uninterrupted communication, but in some cases its active use becomes impractical. Many users notice that when the router's signal is weak, voice quality deteriorates, and lags or robotic sound occurs. In such cases, forcing a switch to a 4G or LTE cellular network often solves the problem.
Another important reason is cost control. If you're connected to public Wi-Fi at a cafe or airport, your carrier may charge different rates for data, or the feature itself may consume background data to register with the carrier's network. Disabling this option ensures that calls are made exclusively through your SIM card, which is especially important when roaming, where pricing can be confusing.
⚠️ Attention: In some regions and with certain carriers, Wi-Fi calling may be a paid feature or require an additional service. Before activating or deactivating, we recommend checking your plan's terms in your carrier's account.
It's also worth mentioning compatibility. Not all operators support this technology on all plans. If your provider doesn't support it, IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) is fully enabled, the phone may constantly try to register on a Wi-Fi network for calls, draining the battery without ever establishing a stable connection. In this case, disabling the feature completely is the only correct solution to conserve battery life.
Disabling via the standard settings menu
The easiest and most reliable way to manage the wireless calling feature is to use the built-in menu of your smartphone. Interface Samsung It's logical, and you can find the option you need in just a few clicks. The process is the same for most modern models, from the Galaxy A series to the flagship S and Z models.
First, you need to access the main Settings menu. Find the gear icon on your home screen or swipe down from the top to open the notification panel, and tap the Settings icon. Then, follow these steps: Connections → Mobile NetworkThis is where all parameters related to SIM card operation and data transfer are concentrated.
In the menu that opens, find the item called Wi-Fi callingIf your carrier supports the technology, there will be a toggle next to its name. Tap it to change the status to "Off." If the option isn't listed, it may mean your carrier doesn't support the feature or it's hidden elsewhere.
☑️ Check before disconnecting
Sometimes the system may prompt you to select a network priority. In this case, it's best to select the "Mobile network preferred" option. This will allow the phone to use Wi-Fi for calls only as a last resort, when there's no cellular signal at all. This compromise is suitable for those who don't want to completely abandon Wi-Fi but prefer standard connectivity.
Setup via the Phone app
In some versions of the shell One UI Even on older smartphone models, call settings can be configured directly in the phone app. This is designed for the convenience of users who frequently change their communication settings. To use this method, open the standard "dialer" app—the green handset on the screen.
Click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner of the screen to open the context menu. Select SettingsIn the list that opens, look for a section related to additional features or specifically Wi-Fi calling. The path may look like this: More → Wi-Fi Calling.
Here you'll also see a toggle switch. Disabling it prevents the system from initiating calls via the Internet Protocol. On dual-SIM devices, the settings can apply to only one selected SIM card or both at once, depending on the interface logic.
If you don't find the option you need in the Phone app menu, it doesn't mean the feature isn't available. Return to the general system settings method described in the previous section. Duplicate settings in different places is a characteristic of Android that can sometimes lead to confusion, but it also gives the user flexibility.
Hidden menus and engineering codes
For advanced users who can't find a standard switch, there are engineering codes. These allow access to a deep system testing menu where you can manage radio module parameters. However, using this method requires caution, as incorrectly changing the settings can lead to network instability.
To enter the testing menu, open the Phone app and dial the combination ##4636##If the code is supported by your model and firmware, the "Testing" menu will open. Select Phone information (Phone Information). There may be a switch here. Turn off radio or setting the preferred network type, but direct VoWiFi is rare here and depends on the operator.
More specific code for Samsung is *#27663368378#It's designed for testing Wi-Fi, but in some cases it can also show the connection status. To directly disable VoWiFi through the engineering menu, the settings route is most often used, as direct codes are often blocked by carriers to prevent user errors.
⚠️ Attention: Don't change the values in the engineering menu unless you're sure of their purpose. Resetting the radio module may temporarily disable your connection, and restoring default settings will require rebooting the device or performing a factory reset.
If standard methods don't work and the engineering menu is unavailable, the only other option is to use special tunnel apps or contact your carrier's service center. The carrier can remotely disable the VoWiFi service at the network level, which will disable the feature on any device with your SIM card.
Comparison of communication management methods
Now that we've covered the technical details, it's helpful to organize the information. Different disabling methods have their pros and cons. Below is a table to help you choose the best method for managing internet calling on your device. Samsung.
| Method | Complexity | Efficiency | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connections menu | Low | 100% | None |
| Phone app | Low | 100% | None |
| Engineering menu | High | Average | Network failure |
| Request to the operator | Average | 100% | Long wait |
As the table shows, the standard settings methods are the safest and most effective. They require no specialized knowledge and are guaranteed to work on all current models. Using engineering codes is only justified in exceptional cases, when the software interface is blocked or malfunctioning.
It's important to understand that disabling this feature at the phone level doesn't cancel your service with your carrier. If you want to be sure that calls will never be routed over the internet, even if you accidentally flip the switch in your settings, it's best to contact your carrier's support team.
Impact of the function on autonomy and traffic
Many users wonder whether it's worth keeping this feature enabled all the time. On the one hand, it saves battery life in areas with poor reception, as the smartphone doesn't have to boost the cell tower signal. On the other hand, constantly scanning for and registering for Wi-Fi networks can actually increase battery consumption.
In terms of data usage, voice calls consume relatively little data—approximately 1 MB per minute for standard quality. However, if you're roaming, even this small amount can be expensive without a special plan. Therefore, before traveling abroad, disabling VoWiFi is a mandatory precaution.
Background activity is also worth considering. The phone app may periodically check for Wi-Fi availability for calls, even when you're not making calls. This places a micro-load on the processor and radio module. For users who monitor every percentage of battery life, completely disabling unnecessary communication features is a good way to optimize device performance.
Solution and troubleshooting
It often happens that the user has disabled the feature, but the "Wi-Fi Call" icon or similar indicator still appears in the status bar. This could mean the phone is in the process of switching or that the carrier is imposing its settings via OTA profile updates.
In this situation, try the following steps:
- 🔄 Restart your device after changing settings.
- 📡 Toggle Airplane Mode on and off.
- 🗑️ Remove and re-add your carrier's APN access point.
- 📞 Call your operator to reset the network settings on the server side.
If the problem persists, it may be due to a software conflict. Make sure your version is One UI Updated to the latest available version. The developers regularly release patches that fix bugs in the communication modules.
Why doesn't the icon disappear?
Sometimes the icon may appear due to the interface cache. Try clearing the cache of the Phone and Settings apps through the storage menu. This won't delete your contacts, but it will clear the interface's temporary files.
In rare cases, a full network reset can help. Please note that this will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords and other Bluetooth devices, but will return all network settings to factory defaults. Here's how to reset: Settings → General Settings → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Will the phone work without a SIM card if Wi-Fi calling is enabled?
Yes, on some models Samsung Some carriers offer emergency calls or even regular calls over Wi-Fi without a physical SIM card, as long as the number is linked to a carrier account. However, for full functionality, at least initial activation with a SIM card is usually required.
Does disabling VoWiFi affect internet speed?
No, disabling Wi-Fi voice calling does not affect data transfer speeds. Your internet will continue to function normally; your phone will simply stop using the internet connection for voice calls, switching to the cellular network's voice channel.
Is it possible to disable VoWiFi for only one SIM card?
Yes, if you have a dual-SIM smartphone, you can set up Wi-Fi calling individually for each SIM card. In the mobile network settings menu, select the desired SIM card and change the settings for it, leaving the second one unchanged.
Why did the settings reset after updating the firmware?
During major system updates Android or One UI Some user settings may be reset to default values. This is standard system behavior to ensure compatibility with new features. After the update, we recommend checking key settings again.
Is there a difference between VoLTE and VoWiFi?
Yes, these are different technologies. VoLTE transmits voice over 4G/LTE networks, and VoWiFi — via Wi-Fi. They can operate independently, and disabling one function does not affect the other, although both are aimed at improving connection quality.