MTS Wi-Fi Calling: How to Connect and Make Free Mobile Calls

Modern smartphones allow you to make calls not only via the cellular network, but also via the Internet - via Wi-Fi CallingThis technology is especially useful in areas with poor mobile coverage, but is no less beneficial for saving money: with the right settings, calls through Wi-Fi may cost less or nothing at all for freeOperator MTS supports this function, but not all subscribers know how to activate it and what pitfalls lie behind its apparent simplicity.

In this article we will look at how Call via Wi-Fi to MTS without paying for traffic, which plans support free calls, and why the feature sometimes fails. And let's compare Wi-Fi Calling with alternatives like VoLTE or messengers and find out where it's most profitable to make calls while roaming.

Spoiler: Not all MTS smartphones and plans support this feature. But if yours does iPhone or Android In the list of compatible devices, you can make calls even with a zero balance, the main thing is to set everything up correctly.

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What is Wi-Fi Calling and how does it work with MTS?

Wi-Fi Calling (or Wi-Fi calling) is a technology that allows you to make voice calls over the internet instead of a cellular network. Your phone number remains the same, and the other person sees a regular incoming call, as if you were calling over GSM. The main difference from instant messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram) - there is no need to install additional applications, and calls are made through the standard phone interface.

U MTS This function works based on the standard IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem). When you make a call over Wi-Fi, the voice traffic is transmitted over the protocol VoIP, but the operator processes it as a regular call. This means:

• 📞 The number is displayed as an MTS mobile (not hidden and not via messenger).
• 🌍 Works even abroad - without roaming charges if you connect to local Wi-Fi.
• 📶 Doesn't depend on the cellular network signal strength (the main thing is a stable internet connection).

An important nuance: MTS doesn't charge for Wi-Fi calls themselves if they're included in your plan's minutes. However, if you don't have minutes or call numbers from other operators or countries, the call is charged as a regular call. Such calls become free only if you have unlimited minutes or promotions (for example, "Call like at home" in roaming).

Technically, the function is available on most modern smartphones, but there are limitations:

• 📱 Supported iPhone starting from iOS 12 And Android with version 9+ (see list of models below).
• 📡 A stable Wi-Fi connection with a speed of at least 1 Mbps (otherwise there will be breaks).
• 🔄 This feature is blocked on some MTS tariffs (for example, on corporate or legacy tariffs).

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Which MTS plans support free Wi-Fi calls?

Not all MTS tariff plans allow the use of Wi-Fi Calling, and even more so - free calls. The main rule: the function only works on tariffs with unlimited minutes or included calling packages. If you have a pay-as-you-go plan (for example, "Just a Gigabyte"), Wi-Fi calls will be charged as normal, at 1.5–3 rubles per minute.

Here are the current MTS tariffs (for 2026), where calls are made via Wi-Fi free within the minutes package:

How do I check my tariff? Enter the command *111*59# Or log into your MTS account. If the plan description mentions "Unlimited Calls" or "Minutes Package," Wi-Fi Calling is likely enabled.

⚠️ Attention: On corporate plans and some regional plans (such as "Home Internet + Phone"), this feature can be administratively disabled. In this case, even with unlimited minutes, Wi-Fi calls will be unavailable.

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Step-by-step instructions: how to enable Wi-Fi Calling on Android

Setting up on Android It depends on the firmware version and phone model. Below is a general instruction that is suitable for most devices (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Google Pixel and others).

Step 1: Check compatibility

Make sure your smartphone supports Wi-Fi Calling From MTS. A full list of models can be found on the operator's website, but in general, the function works on:

• 📱 Samsung Galaxy (starting from S8)
• 📱 Xiaomi Redmi/POCO (With MIUI 12+)
• 📱 Google Pixel (all models)
• 📱 Huawei/Honor (With EMUI 10+)

Step 2: Activate the feature in the settings

1. Open Settings → Connections → Mobile network (or SIM cards and mobile networks).
2. Select MTS SIM card.
3. Find the item Wi-Fi calling or Wi-Fi Calling and turn on the switch.
4. Confirm activation (a reboot may be required).

Step 3: Set network priority

To make your phone prefer Wi-Fi for calls, go to Settings → Mobile network → Network mode and select:

• LTE/3G/2G (auto) — for maximum compatibility.
• LTE only - if supported VoLTE (improves connection quality).

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (MIUI, ColorOS) After enabling Wi-Fi Calling, you need to manually specify your operator. To do this, select MTS Russia from the list.

The smartphone is connected to Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi Calling is enabled in the settings | A "Wi-Fi" icon appears on the screen next to the signal strength | The tariff supports unlimited minutes-->

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How to Set Up Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone (iOS)

On iPhone The process is simpler, but there are some nuances with operator support. The function works on all models starting from iPhone 6 (With iOS 12+), But MTS should support it for your tariff.

Instructions for iOS:

1. Open Settings → Cellular.
2. Select the MTS SIM card (if there are several).
3. Find the item Wi-Fi calling and move the slider to the right.
4. In the window that appears, select Turn on.

After activation, the following message will appear in the status bar (next to the operator's name): MTS Wi-FiThis means that calls are now made via the Internet.

What should I do if the function does not turn on?

• 🔄 Update iOS to the latest version (go to Settings → General → Software Update).
• 📋 Check that your SIM card settings indicate your carrier MTS Russia (and not "Auto").
• 📡 Reconnect to Wi-Fi or change the network (sometimes it helps).

⚠️ Attention: On iPhone with two SIM cards (DSDSWi-Fi Calling can only work on one of them. Select the preferred SIM card in your cellular settings.

Why is there no "Wi-Fi Calling" option on iPhone?

If this item is not present in the settings, then:

1) Your operator (MTS) does not support this function for your tariff.

2) The SIM card is not activated for Wi-Fi Calling (you need to call MTS support at 0890 and request a connection).

3) You have an outdated version of iOS (update your smartphone).

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How to make free calls: terms and restrictions

Even if you set it up correctly Wi-Fi Calling, calls won't always be free. Here are MTS's key terms (valid as of 2026):

1. Free calls within the package of minutes

• 📞 If you have unlimited calls (tariffs "Ultra", "Everything for your own"), then calls via Wi-Fi are not charged.
• ⏱️ If you have a limited number of minutes (for example, 500 minutes/month), then calls made via Wi-Fi are debited in the same way as regular calls.

2. Calls abroad

• 🌎 Wi-Fi Calling operates according to your plan's roaming rules. If you have the "Call Like Home" option, calls to Russian numbers are free.
• 💰 Calls to local numbers (in the country of residence) are charged at MTS roaming rates.

3. Number restrictions

• 📵 Calls to short numbers (for example, 0890 for support) may not work over Wi-Fi.
• 🔢 Calls to numbers in other countries (except those included in the package) are charged at the international call rate.

⚠️ Attention: If you have zero balance, calls via Wi-Fi will not pass, even if you have an unlimited plan. The operator blocks outgoing calls if your balance is negative.

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What to do if Wi-Fi Calling isn't working

If you still can't make calls over Wi-Fi after setting up, please check the following:

1. Internet problems

• 🔌 Make sure your Wi-Fi is stable (speed from 1 Mbps).
• 🔄 Reconnect to the network or reboot your router.
• 📶 Disable your VPN—it may be blocking traffic. IMS.

2. Phone settings

• 📱 On Android: check that in Settings → Mobile network included LTE network mode.
• 🍎 On iPhone: Update carrier settings (Settings → General → About → Carrier settings).

3. Problems on the MTS side

• 📞 Call support at 0890 and check if the function is activated for your number.
• 🔄 Ask to reset the settings IMS (sometimes helps with registration errors).

⚠️ Attention: If after all these steps calls aren't working and there's no Wi-Fi Calling icon in the status bar, it's likely that your plan or SIM card doesn't support the feature. In this case, you have two options:

1. Change the tariff to a supported one (for example, "Ultra").
2. Use alternatives: WhatsApp, Telegram or Skype.

How to check if a call is working over Wi-Fi?

During a conversation, look at the top bar of the screen:

- On Android The "Wi-Fi" icon next to the signal level should be lit.

- On iPhone The message "MTS Wi-Fi" will appear in the status bar.

If there is no icon, the call is made via the cellular network.

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Wi-Fi Calling vs. VoLTE vs. Messengers: Which is Better?

Wi-Fi calling isn't the only way to save money. Let's explore alternatives and compare them based on key parameters:

* — within the tariff’s minute package.

When is Wi-Fi Calling more profitable?

• 🏠 At home or in the office with poor cellular signal but good Wi-Fi.
• 🌍 When roaming, if the "Call like at home" package is activated.
• 📱 If you don't want to install messengers (calls are made through the standard "Phone" app).

When is it best to use instant messengers?

• 💬 If the other person also uses WhatsApp/Telegram — calls will be free even without minutes.
• 🌐 If you call internationally to local numbers (cheaper than MTS roaming).

What about VoLTE?

Technology VoLTE (voice over 4G) also improves the quality of communication, but only works if there is coverage LTEUnlike Wi-Fi Calling, it doesn't require internet access, but roaming charges may be higher. If your phone supports both features, it's best to enable them simultaneously for maximum stability.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calls on MTS

Is it possible to make calls via Wi-Fi with a zero balance?

No. Even if you have an unlimited plan, MTS blocks outgoing calls, including Wi-Fi Calling, if your balance is zero or negative. To unblock them, top up your account with at least 10 rubles.

Why can't the other person hear me when calling over Wi-Fi?

This is a typical problem with poor internet connection. Check:

• Wi-Fi speed (must be at least 1 Mbps).
• No interference (for example, a microwave oven next to the router).
• Codec settings (on some phones you need to select it manually) Opus or AMR-WB in call settings).

If the problem persists, switch to a cellular network.

Does Wi-Fi Calling work on a tablet with an MTS SIM card?

Yes, but only if the tablet supports voice calls (eg. Samsung Galaxy Tab (with LTE). On most tablets, this feature is disabled at the firmware level, even if a SIM card is inserted.

Is it possible to receive SMS via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but only if you have the feature activated Wi-Fi Calling and the phone supports it RCS (Enhanced messaging). Regular SMS messages aren't sent over Wi-Fi—they're sent over the cellular network. For free messages, use instant messaging apps.

How to disable Wi-Fi Calling?

Go to your phone settings and disable the function:

• On Android: Settings → Mobile Network → Wi-Fi Calling.
• On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Wi-Fi Calling.

After disabling, calls will only go through the cellular network.