Wi-Fi Calling is a convenient feature that allows you to make and receive calls even when there's no mobile network. However, in some situations, it can cause problems, from unexpected roaming charges to messaging app outages. If you find yourself in need of disable Wi-Fi callingThis article will help you understand all the nuances, from basic settings to solving common errors.
Wi-Fi Calling is automatically activated on many modern smartphones, especially if you're using a plan that supports VoLTE or VoWiFi. But not all users know that Wi-Fi calls can work even when the mobile network is unavailable—for example, in the subway or abroad. This leads to uncontrollable costs or conflicts with other services (for example, WhatsApp Calls or Skype). Below, we'll detail how to deactivate this feature on different devices and what to do if standard methods don't work.
What is Wi-Fi Calling and why should you turn it off?
Wi-Fi Calling (or VoWiFi) is a technology that allows voice calls to be transmitted over the internet instead of traditional mobile networks. It's particularly useful in areas with poor coverage, but it also has its downsides:
- 💰 Hidden costs: Some operators charge such calls as international or roaming calls, even if you are at home.
- 📵 Conflicts with messengers: the function may block the work Viber, Telegram Calls or Zoom.
- 🔋 Increased battery consumption: Constantly scanning for Wi-Fi networks to maintain connection puts strain on your battery.
- 🛡️ Security risks: Voice traffic transmitted over public Wi-Fi networks may be vulnerable to interception.
Additionally, on some devices (eg, iPhone or Samsung GalaxyWi-Fi Calling is activated automatically after a firmware update. If you don't plan to use this feature, it's best to disable it beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
How to Disable Wi-Fi Calling on Android (Universal Method)
On most smartphones running Android (including Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel (and others) the path to the Wi-Fi Calling settings is standard. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Open the app
Settings(gear icon). - Go to the section
Network and Internet(orConnectionson Samsung). - Select
Mobile network→Additionally(orSIM cards and mobile networks). - Find the item
Wi-Fi Calling(may be calledWi-Fi callingorVoWiFi). - Move the slider to the position Off or uncheck the box.
If your device doesn't have this option, it's possible your carrier doesn't support this feature, or it's hidden in another menu. For example, on some models Huawei or Honor the path will be like this: Settings → Wireless & networks → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi calling.
☑️ Check if Wi-Fi Calling is disabled on Android
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (for example, MIUI from XiaomiAfter disabling Wi-Fi Calling, the signal strength icon may disappear. This is normal—just restart your device.
Disabling Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone (iOS)
On iPhone Wi-Fi Calling is configured separately for each SIM card (if you have multiple). To deactivate it:
- Open
Settings→Cellular communications(orMobile communications). - Select the SIM card for which you want to disable the function.
- Find the item
Wi-Fi Calling(in some versions of iOS it may be in a submenuSIM card settings). - Move the slider
Wi-Fi Calling on this iPhonein position Off.
If you have iPhone with two SIM cards (for example, iPhone 12 or newer), repeat the steps for the second card. Please note: on some operator plans (for example, MTS or Beeline) After disabling Wi-Fi Calling, you may need to re-register with the network - just restart your phone.
| iPhone model | Access Wi-Fi Calling settings | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 6s — iPhone 11 | Settings → Cellular → Wi-Fi Calling |
The feature may not be available if your carrier does not support VoWiFi. |
| iPhone 12 — iPhone 15 | Settings → Cellular → SIM Options → Wi-Fi Calling |
Supports two SIM cards, independent settings |
| iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) | Settings → Mobile → Wi-Fi Calling |
May require an iOS update to function properly. |
Wi-Fi Calling on Smartwatches and Tablets
Many smart watches (eg. Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch) and tablets (for example, iPad (with a SIM card) also support Wi-Fi Calling. You can disable it as follows:
- 📱 Apple Watch: Open the application
Watchon iPhone, go toMy Watch → Cellular → Wi-Fi Callingand disable the function. - ⌚ Samsung Galaxy Watch: Open on the clock
Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi Calling. - 📱 iPad with SIM card: The path is similar iPhone —
Settings → Cellular → Wi-Fi Calling.
On Android tablets (For example, Samsung Tab or Huawei MatePad) The Wi-Fi Calling function is less common, but if it is present, it can be disabled in the menu Settings → Mobile network → Advanced.
⚠️ Attention: On some smartwatches (eg. Apple Watch Series 3 (and older) Wi-Fi Calling may automatically turn on when connecting to a known Wi-Fi network. To prevent this, disable the feature. Automatic connection to networks in the watch settings.
Problems after disabling Wi-Fi Calling and their solutions
Sometimes, disabling Wi-Fi Calling can cause side effects, such as network signal loss, messaging apps not working, or registration errors. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The mobile network signal is lost | Conflict with VoLTE settings | Turn on 4G (VoLTE) in the mobile network settings and reboot the device |
| WhatsApp/Viber calls aren't working | Wi-Fi Calling blocks VoIP traffic | Disable Wi-Fi Calling and reinstall instant messengers |
| Error: "Unable to register online" | SIM card failure | Restart your phone or remove/insert the SIM card |
| Calls automatically switch to Wi-Fi | The operator forcibly activates VoWiFi | Contact your operator's support team and ask them to disable the service at the tariff level. |
If you still see the icon after disabling Wi-Fi Calling Wi-Fi next to the signal indicator, this may indicate that the feature is activated at the operator level. In this case:
- Call your mobile operator's support (for example, Megaphone, Tele2).
- Check if the service is included Wi-Fi Calling in your tariff.
- Ask to disable it manually - sometimes this can only be done through your personal account or a USSD command (for example,
*111*123#For MTS).
What should I do if my carrier refuses to disable Wi-Fi Calling?
If the operator claims that the service cannot be disconnected, try changing the tariff plan to a simpler one (without VoLTE/VoWiFi support) or use alternative SIM cards (for example, virtual operators like Tinkoff Mobile).
How to check if Wi-Fi Calling is really disabled
To make sure that the function Wi-Fi Calling completely deactivated, follow these steps:
- Check the indicatorsThere should be no icons on the phone screen.
Wi-Fi Calling,VoWiFiorWi-Finext to the signal level. - Test callDisable mobile data and Wi-Fi, then try calling. If the call doesn't go through, the feature is disabled.
- USSD commands: Dial
##4636##(For Android), go toPhone informationand check the statusWi-Fi Calling. - Operator's personal account: Log in to the web version of your personal account (for example, My MTS or My Beeline) and check active services.
On iPhone You can additionally check the function status through the menu Settings → Cellular → SIM card options. If the item Wi-Fi Calling Gray and inactive - the function is disabled.
Alternative ways to block Wi-Fi calling
If standard methods don't work, you can try alternative solutions:
- 📲 Airplane mode: Turn on
Airplane modeand manually enable only Wi-Fi. This will block all mobile features, including Wi-Fi Calling. - 🔌 Disabling VoLTE: On Android go to
Settings → Mobile network → Network typeand select3Ginstead of4G (VoLTE)This may automatically disable Wi-Fi Calling. - 🛠️ Reset network settings: On iPhone or Android perform a network reset (
Settings → System → Reset → Reset network settings). This will delete all saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords! - 📱 Using a second device: If Wi-Fi Calling is activated on all devices with your SIM card (for example, on iPhone And iPad), disable it on all gadgets.
For advanced users, there's another option: blocking the feature at the router level. If your router supports it, Parental Control or Firewall, you can add a rule that prevents the device from connecting to your carrier's Wi-Fi Calling servers. However, this method requires knowledge of IP addresses and may disrupt other services.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Wi-Fi Calling
Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi Calling for outgoing calls only?
No, the feature works comprehensively—it's either enabled for all calls (outgoing and incoming) or disabled completely. If you only need to restrict outgoing calls, use alternative messaging apps (e.g. Telegram or Signal).
Why did SMS stop working after disabling Wi-Fi Calling?
This may be due to the fact that your operator is using Wi-Fi Calling and for sending SMS (service Wi-Fi SMS or RCS). Disable this feature in your mobile network settings or contact your carrier's support.
Will Wi-Fi Calling work abroad if I haven't turned it off?
Yes, but this may incur additional charges. Some carriers charge these calls as international calls, even if you're connected to local Wi-Fi. We recommend disabling this feature before traveling or checking roaming terms with your provider.
Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi Calling via USSD command?
Yes, some operators support USSD commands to manage the service. For example, MTS you can try *111*123#, For Beeline — *110*180#However, these commands are subject to change, so please check the operator's website for current information.
Does disabling Wi-Fi Calling affect connection quality?
If you're in an area with reliable mobile network coverage, your connection quality won't deteriorate. In areas with poor signal (such as basements or remote areas), calls may become less stable, but this is compensated for by using messaging apps.