The experience of a mobile network suddenly losing signal indoors is familiar to many subscribers. Thick walls, distance from the base station, or terrain can render a smartphone useless just when an important call is about to happen. Fortunately, modern operators, including MTS, have introduced technology that allows voice calls to be made over a home wireless network.
This function, known as VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) dramatically improves connection quality in dark zones. You no longer need to run to the balcony or go to the window to be heard. Simply connect your phone to the router, and the device will automatically switch to voice transmission over the internet.
In this article, we'll cover in detail how to activate this option, which phones support it, and what to do if the desired button doesn't appear in the menu. The key requirement for the service to work is that your device supports IMS technology and that the operator has configured it accordingly. Follow the instructions to stay connected anywhere in your apartment.
What is VoWiFi and how does it work with MTS?
Technology VoWiFi It's a method of transmitting voice traffic over IP protocols, similar to how instant messaging apps work, but integrated into a standard phone book. To the subscriber, it appears like a regular call, but the signal travels through an access point rather than a cell tower. Wi-FiOperator MTS uses this technology to expand coverage and improve service quality in areas where radio signals are weak.
The main advantage is the transparency of the process. You don't need to open separate apps or ask your caller to install special software. You simply dial a number, and the network automatically selects the optimal connection path. If you leave the router's coverage area during a call but enter a cellular network, the call won't be dropped—an automatic handover will occur.
Sound quality when using HD Voice Wi-Fi calls are often superior to standard GSM calls, as the channel has a higher bandwidth. However, it's important to keep in mind that your data plan charges you, although many operators, including MTS, often do not charge for this traffic separately or include it in the general package.
⚠️ Please note: Call quality directly depends on the stability of your internet connection. If your router is overloaded with downloads or the signal is weak, your voice may be interrupted or echo.
For the technology to work correctly, support from the device is required. Most modern smartphones released after 2018 already have built-in modules for working with IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem). The operator simply activates this feature on their end by sending the appropriate profiles to your device.
Checking device and tariff compatibility
Before searching through the menu settings, make sure your equipment and SIM card are ready to work with the new communication standards. Not all phone models, even modern ones, are operator-certified. MTS to work on their VoWiFi network. The list of supported devices is constantly updated and includes popular models. iPhone, Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands.
The condition of your SIM card is also important. If you're using an old plastic card that's been passed from phone to phone for many years, it might be worth replacing. Newer SIM cards have improved encryption algorithms and exchange service data with the carrier's network faster, which is critical for VoWiFi.
Checking your tariff plan is another essential step. While this feature is generally available to all subscribers, some legacy plans may require additional options or upgrading to the "Tarifische" line or similar modern plans. Ensure your account is free of any blocks and that your data services are active.
- 📱 Make sure your smartphone model is on the official list of supported devices on your operator's website.
- 💿 Check the age of your SIM card; if necessary, replace it at a mobile phone store or have it delivered.
- 📶 Make sure your phone has data enabled, even if you're only using Wi-Fi for calls.
- 🔄 Update your smartphone software to the latest available version.
Activation of the service on the operator's side
Enabling a feature often requires confirmation from you. MTS offers several ways to activate the Wi-Fi Calling service. The easiest and fastest method is using a USSD command. It works even without internet access on your phone, requiring only a cellular signal to send the request.
To activate, enter the command *111*1781# and press the call button. The system will automatically check the connection and activate the service. A reply SMS will confirm successful activation. If the command doesn't work, your plan or device doesn't support the feature, or it's already enabled by default.
Activation command: *111*1781#An alternative method is through the subscriber's personal account or mobile application My MTSIn the services or plan settings section, you can often find a toggle for managing additional options. This is convenient, as the app interface visually displays the service status.
⚠️ Note: The mobile app interface and menu item layout may change after updates. If you don't find the item immediately, search for "Wi-Fi" within the app.
Once activated by the operator, changes may take effect within a few minutes to several hours. During this time, it is recommended to reboot your smartphone so that it receives the updated network settings.APN and IMS profiles).
Setting up calls on Android
On devices running Android The activation process may vary depending on the manufacturer and operating system version. Shells Samsung One UI, Xiaomi MIUI and clean Android The switch layouts have their own specific features. However, the general algorithm remains similar.
First, make sure Wi-Fi is turned on and your phone is connected to the network. Then, go to the device's main settings. Find the section for SIM cards and mobile network. On some models, this item may be called "Connections" or "Network & Internet."
☑️ Android Setup Checklist
In the SIM card settings menu, look for "Wi-Fi Calling." If you have two SIM cards, you'll need to configure this for each separately. Toggle the slider to "On." The system may warn you about sharing your location data with emergency services—this is a standard procedure and requires confirmation.
If you don't find this option in the SIM card menu, try searching through the global settings search. Enter "Wi-Fi" or "VoWiFi" in the search bar. If your phone supports the technology but doesn't have this option, your carrier may not have certified the model, and manual configuration will be required through the engineering menu, which is not recommended for regular users.
- 🔍 Use the search in your phone settings if you can't find the item manually.
- 📞 For dual-SIM smartphones, check the settings for each SIM card separately.
- 🌐 Make sure your Wi-Fi settings aren't set to "Internet only."
Instructions for iPhone (iOS) owners
For smartphone owners Apple lucky with the unified interface. iPhone setting VoWiFi It's as simple as possible and hidden from prying eyes if the service is unavailable. First, make sure your device is running the latest version. iOSOlder versions of the operating system may not contain the necessary profiles for working with networks. MTS.
Go to the menu Settings, then select "Cellular." If you have a single SIM card, look for the "Wi-Fi Calling" section first. If you have two SIM cards (a physical and an eSIM, or two physical ones), tap the phone number for which you want to enable the feature and then select the appropriate option.
Turn on the "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone" switch. Once enabled, an additional option called "Wi-Fi Preference" may appear. If selected, the phone will attempt to use Wi-Fi for calls even when there is a strong cellular signal, which can be useful in buildings with thick walls.
What to do if the item is not available on iPhone?
If the "Wi-Fi Calling" option isn't available in the cellular menu, check for iOS updates. Also, make sure the MTS SIM card is installed correctly. In rare cases, resetting network settings may be necessary, but this will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords.
It is important to note that on iPhone The connection status is displayed in the status bar. You may see "MTS Wi-Fi" or something similar next to the operator's name, indicating that calls are indeed being made over the internet protocol. This is the most reliable indicator of successful setup.
| Parameter | Android | iOS (iPhone) |
|---|---|---|
| Path to settings | Settings -> SIM cards | Settings -> Cellular |
| Option name | Wi-Fi Calling | Wi-Fi calling |
| Indicator | Wi-Fi handset icon | MTS Wi-Fi sign |
| Network priority | Customizable | Customizable |
Problem solving and troubleshooting
Despite the ease of setup, users may encounter difficulties. The most common issue is the lack of a power-on option in the phone's menu. This almost always means that the specific smartphone model is not certified by the carrier. MTS to work on their network, even if the phone technically supports it VoWiFi.
Another common situation is that the icon appears, but calls fail or are dropped. In this case, the problem lies with the router. Check if AP Isolation is enabled or if strict firewall settings are blocking ports required for voice traffic. Also, try rebooting the router.
Another issue is a conflict with dialer apps. If you use a third-party dialer app instead of the system one, the function may not work correctly. Switch back to the default Phone app to eliminate any software conflicts.
- 🔄 Restart your smartphone after enabling the setting.
- 📡 Check if Flight Mode or Power Saving Mode is enabled.
- 🔒 Make sure your router doesn't block VoIP protocols.
⚠️ Please note: When calling emergency numbers (112, 102, etc.) via Wi-Fi, the dispatcher may have difficulty determining your location, as the IP address does not always exactly correspond to the physical address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does MTS charge extra for Wi-Fi calls?
No, there's no separate charge for the technology itself. Minutes are charged from your basic plan, just like a regular call. Traffic is also typically free, but it's best to check the terms of your specific plan.
Can I use VoWiFi while roaming abroad?
Yes, this is a great way to save money. When abroad, you connect to local Wi-Fi and call Russian numbers at your home region's rates, avoiding roaming charges.
Why did the Wi-Fi Calling icon disappear after rebooting?
Your phone may not have registered with the IMS network yet. Wait 1-2 minutes. If the icon doesn't appear, check that Wi-Fi is turned on and that you have internet access. Also, make sure the SIM card is active.
Does this feature work if there is no mobile network coverage at all?
Yes, that's exactly what it's designed for. If there's no cellular network coverage (0 bars), but Wi-Fi is available, you'll be able to make and receive calls without any issues.