Modern smartphones, in particular flagship and mid-range models Samsung, have a wide range of functionality that is often hidden from the average user. One such feature is technology Voice over Wi-Fi, which allows voice calls to be made over a wireless network rather than through standard cellular channels. For subscribers MTS This option becomes a real salvation in areas with poor reception, where the regular signal is only "caught" with difficulty or disappears completely.
Many device owners Galaxy Many are wondering what exactly this feature is and how to activate it on their gadget. Essentially, it redirects voice traffic to the internet channel, ensuring crystal-clear sound and a stable connection even in basements or thick-walled buildings where radio waves from base stations have difficulty penetrating. It's important to understand that this technology requires operator support and proper device configuration.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to turn your smartphone into a powerful communication tool using the network's capabilities. Wi-FiWe'll cover not only standard activation methods, but also the nuances of working with a profile. IMS, which often becomes a stumbling block. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes and why the feature sometimes stops working after a system update or SIM card change.
What is VoWiFi technology and how does it work on Samsung?
Technology VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) is a standard for transmitting voice calls over the IP protocol. Unlike traditional messaging apps such as Viber or WhatsApp, the phone's default dialer is used here. This means you don't have to convince the other person to install a specific app—they'll see the incoming call as a regular call from your number.
The operating principle is based on integration with the operator's network core. When you dial a number, your smartphone Samsung encrypts the voice packet and sends it through the router to the provider's network MTS, where it is re-encoded and sent to the recipient. This process is completely transparent for the user. The key element here is the presence of certificates and proper registration in IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem).
It's worth noting that connection quality directly depends on the stability of the internet connection. If the router is overloaded or the channel is weak, the phone may automatically switch to the mobile network if configured to do so. However, in conditions where there is no cellular service at all, VoWiFi remains the only way to stay in touch.
Device owners Samsung Often, users encounter a situation where the handset icon with the Wi-Fi symbol appears and disappears. This may be because the phone is trying to prioritize the cellular network even with a weak signal. In such cases, it's helpful to know how to force a network switch.
Preparing your smartphone and SIM card for VoWiFi
Before you begin setup, you need to ensure your equipment and data plan are ready to work with modern communication protocols. Not all older SIM cards support the required encryption and network authentication standards. MTSIn addition, the smartphone's firmware must be up-to-date, as operators are constantly updating security requirements.
The first step is to check the compatibility of your plan. Operator MTS Wi-Fi calling is usually free, but it must be activated on the network side. Sometimes you need to send a special USSD code or use your personal account. Without this procedure, the phone will not be able to register on the subnet. IMS.
⚠️ Attention: If your SIM card is more than 5-7 years old, we recommend replacing it at a mobile phone store. Older chips may not support the necessary encryption keys for VoWiFi, which will result in constant connection errors.
It's also important to check your router model. While this technology works on most modern devices, some older models may not handle voice traffic priority (QoS) correctly, leading to interruptions during calls. Make sure your router provides a stable internet connection.
After checking your plan and replacing your SIM card (if necessary), reboot your smartphone. This is a mandatory procedure that allows the device to re-register with the network and receive updated configuration settings from the operator. MTS.
Step-by-step instructions for activating this feature on Android
Activating the function on smartphones Samsung may differ slightly depending on the shell version One UI and operating system versions AndroidHowever, the general procedure remains the same for most models. Let's look at the classic path through the settings menu.
First, open the main menu and find the section Settings. Scroll down to the item ConnectionsThis is where the main parameters of network interactions are concentrated. Find the item Wi-Fi callingIf you don't see it right away, it may be hidden in an additional menu or require you to enable the full display mode.
☑️ VoWiFi Activation Checklist
In the menu that opens, you will be offered several options for how your phone will behave. Select an option. Mobile network is preferred or Wi-Fi onlyIf you're in an area with no cellular coverage at all, consider this option. The first option is the most practical for everyday use, as it ensures a seamless transition between networks.
If the menu item is missing, try the following path: Telephone (dialer app) → Three dots in the corner → Settings → Wi-Fi callingIn some regions and firmware versions, the settings are located here. Make sure the switch is green.
After turning it on, wait for the corresponding icon to appear in the status bar. This is usually a phone handset with a Wi-Fi symbol next to it. If the icon appears but calls aren't connecting, additional configuration of the access point may be required.
Setting up access point (APN) parameters for MTS
Sometimes the automatic settings that come via SMS do not contain all the necessary fields for advanced services like VoWiFiIn this case, you'll have to manually edit the access point settings. It's not difficult, but it does require attention.
Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Access Point Names (APNs)Select an active access point. MTS Internet or create a new one. Pay special attention to the fields APN, Username And Password.
| Parameter | Importance for MTS | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Name | MTS Internet | Arbitrary |
| APN | internet.mts.ru | Necessarily |
| Username | mts | Strictly lowercase |
| Password | mts | Strictly lowercase |
| APN type | default,supl,ims | Critical for VoWiFi |
The most important parameter in this context is the field APN type. Make sure the value is written there. imsWithout this tag, the phone will not be able to register the voice service over the Internet. If the field APN type is not editable, try creating a new access point from scratch.
⚠️ Attention: After changing APN settings, be sure to turn Airplane Mode on and off or reboot your phone for the changes to take effect. Without a reboot, the network may use old cached data.
In some cases, your carrier may block access via non-standard APNs, so use only the official settings. If your internet connection stops working after making these changes, press the menu button (three dots) and select Reset to default.
Troubleshooting IMS Registration and Wi-Fi Icon Issues
One of the most common issues is when the feature is enabled, but the icon in the status bar doesn't appear, or the message "IMS not registered" appears. This means the phone failed to authenticate with the operator's multimedia subnet.
The reasons may be different: from a server failure MTS to a software conflict on your smartphone. Try clearing the system app cache. Telephone And SIM Card ManagerTo do this, go to Settings → Applications, find what you need, select Memory and press Clear cache.
Hidden codes for diagnostics
You can check the IMS status in the Samsung engineering menu. Dial *#0011# or go to the ServiceMode menu. Look for the line "IMS Status: Registered." If it says "Error," the problem is with the network or SIM card.
It's also worth checking whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking ports required for the SIP protocol. Built-in protection Samsung Knox It can sometimes be too aggressive. Try temporarily disabling third-party security apps and see what happens.
If all else fails, reset your network settings. This will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords and other Bluetooth devices, but will restore your network settings to factory defaults. Path: Settings → General settings → Reset → Reset network settings.
Call Quality Comparison: VoWiFi vs. Regular Cellular Network
Users often argue about what is better: traditional cellular communication or calls via Wi-FiThe answer depends on the specific situation. In a densely populated city with good 4G/5G coverage, the difference may be minimal. However, in a room with thick walls, Wi-Fi is the clear winner.
The main advantage of this technology is the absence of "dead zones" indoors. Base stations often can't penetrate modern energy-saving double-glazed windows, while a router located in the room provides a strong signal. Furthermore, HD audio (if supported by both subscribers) is significantly clearer.
- 📶 Stability: Wi-Fi is less susceptible to interference inside buildings, but depends on the quality of your home internet connection.
- 🔋 Power consumption: When the cellular signal is weak, the phone uses more energy searching, so switching to Wi-Fi saves battery life.
- 🌍 Roaming: When abroad, Wi-Fi calls to numbers in your region are often charged the same as regular domestic calls, allowing you to save money.
However, the technology does have its drawbacks. When moving from a Wi-Fi zone to outside, the connection may be interrupted unless seamless handover is configured. The operator MTS supports this feature, but it requires both networks to be configured perfectly.
⚠️ Attention: When making Wi-Fi calls, emergency location services may not be accurate because they are based on the router's IP address rather than the cell tower's geolocation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there an extra charge for Wi-Fi calls?
No, operator MTS There's no additional charge for the VoWiFi technology itself. Minutes are used from your basic package at the rate you'd use for a regular call. If you run out of minutes, you'll be charged according to your plan.
Can I use VoWiFi while roaming abroad?
Yes, this is a great way to save money. If you're abroad and connected to Wi-Fi, you can call Russian numbers just like you would from your home region (if your plan allows it), without paying international roaming charges. However, incoming calls may incur charges.
Why does the Wi-Fi Call icon disappear after leaving home?
This is normal behavior. The phone prioritizes the cellular network to ensure mobility. If a cellular network is available, it switches to it. If you prefer Wi-Fi, change the settings in the call menu to "Prefer Wi-Fi."
Does the function work if there is no mobile network at all (airplane mode)?
Yes, if Airplane Mode is enabled, but Wi-Fi is activated, and VoWiFi is enabled in the settings, calls will work. The phone will use only the internet connection for voice transmission.