Wi-Fi Calling on Your Phone: Which Models Support VoWiFi in 2026?

In the era of ubiquitous 4G/5G coverage, the function Wi-Fi calling (VoWiFi) It may seem unnecessary, but it remains critical in several scenarios. For example, when you're in a basement, an elevator, or out in the countryside where there's no mobile network but Wi-Fi is available. Or when you're traveling abroad and want to avoid roaming charges. VoWiFi Allows you to make calls and send SMS messages over the Internet using your home or office network, without losing connection quality.

However, not all smartphones support this technology. Even among flagships, there are models where the feature is disabled at the firmware level or requires manual activation. In this article, we'll look at Which phones support Wi-Fi calling? In 2026, how to check your device's compatibility and set up VoWiFi on Android And iPhoneWe'll pay special attention to the nuances of working with different telecom operators—not all providers in Russia and the CIS officially support the technology.

If you frequently encounter mobile connection issues but have a stable Wi-Fi connection, this article will help you choose the right smartphone or configure your current one. And for owners iPhone We've prepared a separate section with up-to-date information on models that support VoWiFi out of the box, without any additional modifications.

What is Wi-Fi calling (VoWiFi) and how does it work?

Technology Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) allows you to make voice calls and send SMS messages over the internet instead of traditional cellular networks. This is not the same as VoIP (For example, Skype or WhatsApp), since VoWiFi is integrated into your standard phone book and uses your SIM card number. Calls come and go as usual, but they're transmitted over Wi-Fi.

The main advantages of the technology:

• 📶 Stable connection in areas with poor 2G/3G/4G coverage, if there is Wi-Fi.
• 🌍 Saving on roaming — calls are charged as local ones, even when abroad.
• 🔋 Less battery consumption compared to searching for a mobile network in a weak signal.
• 📞 Emergency call support (112, 911) even without a SIM card (in some countries).

Technically, VoWiFi works through a protocol IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), which is also used for VoLTE (voice over 4G). If your carrier supports IMS, it's highly likely that they also support Wi-Fi calling. However, there are some caveats:

• ⚠️ Not all operators in Russia and the CIS have officially activated VoWiFi (for example, Tele2 And Iota may limit function).
• ⚠️ On some phones, the function is hidden in the engineering menu and requires manual activation.
• ⚠️ In 2026, some budget smartphones (for example, Redmi 12C or Nokia G42) may not support VoWiFi even if technically possible.

⚠️ Attention: The ability to use Wi-Fi calling depends not only on the phone model, but also on the firmware, the region of sale of the device, and your carrier's tariff plan. For example, MTS And Beeline VoWiFi may only be available on certain plans. Check your account or contact support for details.

List of smartphones with Wi-Fi calling (VoWiFi) support in 2026

Below is a current list of models that officially support VoWiFi. We've categorized them by brand and outlined setup details. Please note: even if your smartphone is on the list, the feature may be disabled by your carrier or require a firmware update.

If your model isn't listed in the table, it doesn't mean it doesn't support VoWiFi. For example, many phones Huawei (For example, P40 Pro or Mate 50) have this feature, but it may be hidden in developer settings. To check for support, follow these steps:

Log in Settings → Connections → Mobile network

Find "Wi-Fi calling" or "Advanced settings"

If there is no item, check in Settings → About phone → Software version (sometimes an update is required)

Contact your carrier to confirm IMS support.

On iPhone The check is easier: go to Settings → Phone → Wi-Fi CallingIf the option is active, your operator supports the technology.

How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on Android: A Step-by-Step Guide

VoWiFi activation process on Android It depends on the firmware version and manufacturer. Below is a general guide that is suitable for most modern smartphones (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel and others).

Step 1: Check carrier support

Before setting up your phone, make sure your plan supports VoWiFi. For example, MTS The function is available on the MTS Smart, MTS Ultra and corporate lines. Beeline — to "It's simple" and "Everything is possible." For more information, please check your personal account or call our support number.

Step 2: Enable VoWiFi in Settings

1. Open Settings → Connections → Mobile network (on Samsung) or Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks (on Xiaomi).
2. Select your SIM card (if you have more than one).
3. Find the item Wi-Fi Calling, "VoWiFi" or "Additional settings".
4. Turn on the switch. You may be asked to confirm your emergency address (enter your real home address).

Step 3: Restart your phone

After enabling the feature, it is recommended to reboot your device for the changes to take effect. After rebooting, an icon should appear in the status bar. Wi-Fi Calling or VoWiFi (usually in the form of a tube with waves).

What should I do if the VoWiFi option is not available in the settings?

If you don't see "Wi-Fi Calling" in the menu, try the following steps:

1. Update your phone firmware to the latest version.

2. Insert the SIM card into the slot SIM 1 (on some phones VoWiFi only works with the primary SIM).

3. Enter the engineering code to activate IMS:

- For Samsung: ##4636## → "Phone information" → turn on VoWiFi.

- For Xiaomi: ##869434## → activate Wi-Fi Calling.

4. Contact your operator and request activation of the IMS service on your number.

If none of these methods work, it's likely that your model doesn't support VoWiFi at the software level. In this case, consider alternatives, such as: Google Voice or WhatsApp for Wi-Fi calling.

Setting up Wi-Fi calling on iPhone: Features and limitations

On iPhone The process of enabling VoWiFi is simpler than on Android, but there are a few nuances related to carriers. Apple supports the technology on all models, starting from iPhone 6s, but its operation depends on the provider.

Instructions for activating VoWiFi on iPhone:

1. Go to Settings → Phone → Wi-Fi Calling.
2. Activate the switch Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone.
3. Please enter or confirm address for emergency services (required for some countries).
4. If you have multiple SIM cards (e.g. eSIM), choose which line to enable the feature for.

After turning on, the inscription will appear at the top of the screen next to the operator’s name. Wi-Fi or VoWiFiThis means that calls will now be made over the internet if the mobile network is unavailable.

Limitations and features on iPhone:

• 🔄 When switching between Wi-Fi and a mobile network, the call may be interrupted (depending on the operator).
• 🌐 In some countries (for example, in China) VoWiFi is iPhone may be disabled for legal reasons.
• 📱 On iPhone With dual SIM cards, VoWiFi can only work for one line (usually the physical SIM, not the eSIM).

⚠️ Attention: On iPhone with iOS 16 and later feature Wi-Fi Calling on Other Devices allows you to call from iPad or Mac via the same number. However, for this to work, all devices must be linked to the same Apple ID, and the carrier must support Continuity for VoWiFi.

Wi-Fi Calling on Budget Smartphones: What You Need to Know

Many users mistakenly believe that VoWiFi is only available on flagship models. In fact, even some budget smartphones support the technology, but with some caveats. For example:

• 📱 Redmi Note 11 and newer - VoWiFi works, but may require manual activation through the engineering menu.
• 📱 Samsung Galaxy A13/A23/A33 — VoWiFi support depends on the sales region (it may be disabled on the Russian market).
• 📱 Nokia G400/G60 — officially support VoWiFi, but only on firmware versions with Android 13+.
• 📱 Realme 9/10 Pro — the function is present, but it works unstable with some operators.

The main problems of budget phones with VoWiFi:

1. Lack of updates — Manufacturers often don't release patches for older models, and VoWiFi may disappear after a firmware update.
2. Operator restrictions - some providers (for example, Tele2) block VoWiFi on budget devices, considering them "uncertified".
3. Poor connection quality — a weak processor or Wi-Fi module may cause voice delays (echo, interruptions).

If you're planning to buy a budget smartphone specifically for Wi-Fi calling, we recommend:

• Check user reviews on forums (e.g. 4PDA or XDA Developers).
• Check with your operator for a list of supported devices (for example, MTS publishes such a list in your personal account).
• Test the feature in the store before purchasing (connect to Wi-Fi and try making a call).

Wi-Fi Calling Problems and Solutions

Even if your phone and carrier support VoWiFi, issues may still occur. Let's look at common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Problem 1: VoWiFi won't turn on (gray switch)

If option Wi-Fi calling inactive, the reasons may be the following:

• 🔌 The SIM card does not support IMS. — try inserting a card from a different operator.
• 📵 No mobile network coverage — VoWiFi may require at least a minimum signal to activate.
• 🔄 Outdated firmware - update your phone to the latest version of Android/iOS.

Problem 2: Calls drop when switching between Wi-Fi and 4G

This is a common problem, especially on AndroidSolutions:

• Turn it off Switching to a mobile network in the Wi-Fi settings (if there is such an option).
• Turn on Airplane mode and manually activate Wi-Fi - this will force the phone to use only VoWiFi.
• Update operator settings: to Android go to Settings → Mobile network → Carrier settings → Update profile.

Problem 3: The other person can't hear you or hears an echo

Poor sound quality when using VoWiFi is usually caused by:

• 📶 Weak Wi-Fi signal - Move closer to the router or switch to 5 GHz.
• 🔊 Voice codecs — in the engineering menu (##4636##) select VoLTE/VoWiFi and set priority to EVS or AMR-WB.
• 🔧 Router settings — turn it off QoS or Band Steering, if they interfere with the stability of the connection.

Wi-Fi Calling Alternatives: What to Do If VoWiFi Isn't Supported

If your phone or carrier doesn't support VoWiFi, there are several alternative ways to make calls over Wi-Fi:

1. Messengers with call support

• 💬 WhatsApp — free calls between users, but requires internet access for both parties.
• 📱 Telegram — supports voice and video calls with encryption.
• 🎧 Viber — you can call regular numbers (paid) or between Viber users (free).

2. VoIP applications

• 📞 Google Voice — free calls to the USA/Canada, paid calls to other countries.
• 🌐 Zoiper or Bria — connect to SIP accounts (for example, from MTS or Beeline).
• 🏢 Microsoft Teams or Zoom — suitable for corporate calls.

3. Virtual operators

Some virtual operators (eg Tinkoff Mobile or SberMobile) offer plans with unlimited calls through the app, even if VoWiFi isn't supported. Check the terms on the operator's website.

4. Wi-Fi Calling in Android 10+

On some phones (eg. Google Pixel) there is a built-in function Calls via Wi-Fi, which works without VoWiFi. It uses Google Duplex To route calls over the internet. To enable:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Calls & SMS.
2. Select Calls via Wi-Fi and activate the function.

⚠️ Attention: Alternative ways to make calls via Wi-Fi (eg. WhatsApp or Viber) do not completely replace VoWiFi. They do not support emergency calls (112, 911) and may not work if messaging apps are blocked in some countries.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calling

My phone supports VoWiFi, but my carrier doesn't. What should I do?

You can try:

1. Change your tariff to one that supports VoWiFi (check with your operator).
2. Use an eSIM from another provider (e.g. MTS or Beeline), which supports the technology.
3. Activate roaming and make calls via Wi-Fi as if you were abroad (not available with all operators).

If nothing helps, there are alternatives like WhatsApp or Google Voice.

Why does the battery drain quickly when making Wi-Fi calls?

VoWiFi may increase battery consumption if:

• The phone constantly switches between Wi-Fi and mobile network.
• The Wi-Fi module operates at high power due to a weak signal.
• There are other applications running in the background that use the Internet.

Solutions:

• Turn it off Network search in the Wi-Fi settings.
• Turn on Power saving mode for background processes.
• Use the charger during long conversations.

Is it possible to use VoWiFi without a SIM card?

Technically yes, but with some caveats:

• On iPhone A SIM card is required to activate VoWiFi (even if you remove it later).
• On some Android-phones (for example, Google Pixel) You can make calls via Wi-Fi without a SIM card, but only to numbers linked to a Google account.
• Emergency calls (112) via VoWiFi without SIM do not work in all countries.

For VoWiFi to work properly, a SIM card is required.

How can I check if a call is made via Wi-Fi and not a mobile network?

There are several signs:

• An icon appears in the status bar. Wi-Fi Calling or VoWiFi.
• If you turn off the mobile network (Airplane mode + Wi-Fi), calls still go through.
• On iPhone may appear next to the number in the call log Wi-Fi.

You can also call another phone and ask the person you're talking to to tell you what your voice sounds like—VoWiFi often offers better quality than 2G/3G.

Does VoWiFi work in the subway or on a plane?

Depends on the conditions:

• 🚇 In the metro: If there is Wi-Fi (for example, in the Moscow or St. Petersburg metro), VoWiFi will work, but the operator may block calls in the subway.
• ✈️ On the plane: VoWiFi is prohibited during flights, but some airlines (eg. Aeroflot or S7) allow the use of instant messengers after reaching altitude.

Please check the rules with your carrier before your trip.