Wi-Fi Calling on a Samsung Phone: What It Is, How It Works, and Why You Need It

Modern smartphones Samsung support technology Wi-Fi calls (VoWiFi), which allows you to make calls even without a mobile network. This feature is especially useful in areas with poor coverage, such as basements, elevators, or country houses. But how does it work, is it secure, and how do you set it up correctly? Many users face questions like: "Why isn't Wi-Fi calling working?", How to enable VoWiFi on Samsung? or "Will there be a charge for calling over Wi-Fi?".

In this article we will take a detailed look at what it is Wi-Fi calling on phones Samsung, how they differ from regular calls, which models support this technology, and how to activate it. You'll also learn about potential issues and solutions—from connection errors to messaging conflicts. If you often find yourself in places with an unstable signal, this feature could be your lifesaver!

VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) technology has been around for several years, but not all users are aware of its capabilities. Unlike internet calls via WhatsApp or Telegram, Wi-Fi calling on Samsung They are integrated into the standard Phone app and use your regular number—the other person doesn't even need to install any additional apps. The main advantage: the call is not interrupted when switching between Wi-Fi and a mobile network (if the operator supports it). eSeamless Handover).

However, there are some nuances. For example, not all telecom operators in Russia and the CIS support VoWiFi, and some plans may charge additional fees for such calls. Furthermore, the feature requires proper configuration both on the phone and at the provider's end. Below, we'll cover all aspects step by step, from checking compatibility to troubleshooting.

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

VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) is a technology that allows voice calls to be made over a wireless network instead of traditional cellular communications. It is based on the protocol IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), which provides voice transmission over Internet Protocol (IP). Unlike messaging apps, where calls are routed through third-party servers, VoWiFi uses your mobile operator's infrastructure, guaranteeing a more stable connection and better sound quality.

How does this work in practice? When you make a call over Wi-Fi, your Samsung It sends the signal not to the nearest operator tower, but through the router to the internet, where it reaches the provider's servers. From there, the call is routed to the subscriber—whether it's another phone with VoWiFi or a regular mobile device. In this case:

• 📶 No mobile network required - a stable Wi-Fi connection is sufficient.
• 🔄 Smooth transition between Wi-Fi and 4G/5G (if supported by the operator).
• 📞 Your number is saved — the call comes to the other person as if they were calling from a regular phone.
• 🔒 Encryption — the conversation is protected in the same way as in a cellular network.

It is important to understand that VoWiFi is not the same as ViLTE (voice over 4G). The latter only works with LTE coverage, while VoWiFi can function even in areas where cellular coverage is completely absent. However, for the technology to work, three conditions must be met:

1. Your Samsung supports VoWiFi (list of models below).
2. Your mobile operator provides this service (not all tariffs include it).
3. You are within range of a Wi-Fi network with internet access.

Which Samsung phones support Wi-Fi calling?

The VoWiFi feature is available on most flagship and mid-range models. Samsung, released after 2018. However, there are some nuances: some devices require a firmware update, and support may be limited on budget devices. Here are the main series that officially support the technology:

To find out for sure whether yours supports Samsung VoWiFi, follow these steps:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Settings.
3. Scroll down and find the section Wi-Fi calling or Wi-Fi calling.

If there is no such item, then your model does not support the function. at the software level. It is also worth considering that some operators (for example, Tele2 (in Russia) may block VoWiFi on certain devices due to technical limitations.

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

Activating VoWiFi on Samsung It takes no more than a minute, but requires several conditions: the phone must be connected to Wi-Fi, the SIM card must support the IMS profile, and the carrier must provide the service. Here are the general instructions for most models:

Connect your phone to a Wi-Fi network|Make sure your SIM card is active and recognized|Check if your carrier supports VoWiFi|Update your phone's firmware to the latest version-->

1. Open the app Telephone (tube icon on the home screen).

2. Click on the three vertical dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Settings.

3. Go to the section Wi-Fi calling (on some models it may be called Wi-Fi calling or Additional settings).

4. Activate the switch Wi-Fi callingIf it is not there, click Additionally or More.

5. Select operating mode:

   • Wi-Fi is preferred — the phone will use Wi-Fi even if there is a mobile network.
   • Wi-Fi only — calls will only go through the Internet (useful in areas without coverage).
   • Mobile network is preferred — Wi-Fi will only be activated when there is no signal.

Confirm activation by following the on-screen instructions. Some operators require sending a USSD request (e.g. *111*123# to activate the service).

Once activated, an icon will appear in the status bar (upper right corner of the screen) Wi-Fi Calling or VoWiFiIf it's not there, but the settings are saved, try restarting the phone. On some models (for example, Galaxy S22) additional IMS configuration may be required:

Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network mode → Select "LTE/3G/2G (auto)"

What should I do if the VoWiFi switch is inactive?

If the VoWiFi power button is grey and cannot be pressed, this may mean:

1. Your operator does not support the service (check on the official website).

2. The SIM card is not linked to the IMS profile (try reinstalling the card or contacting a mobile phone store).

3. Mobile data is disabled on your phone (turn it on temporarily to activate it).

4. Custom firmware installed (official software required).

Telecom operators supporting VoWiFi in Russia and the CIS

Not all mobile operators offer Wi-Fi calling. In Russia and the CIS, the situation is as follows (data current at the time of publication, but subject to change):

Important: Even if your operator supports VoWiFi, the service may be disabled by defaultTo activate it, sometimes you need to:

• 📱 Send a USSD request (for example, *111*123# For MTS).
• 🌐 Log in to your personal account on the operator's website and enable the option manually.
• 📞 Call support and ask to connect VoWiFi.

⚠️ Attention: On some plans, operators may charge Wi-Fi calls as outgoing calls to long-distance or international numbers, even if you're on your home network. Check the terms in your account or with your operator!

Common VoWiFi Problems on Samsung and How to Fix Them

Despite its convenience, Wi-Fi calling can sometimes be unstable. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

1. VoWiFi does not turn on (gray switch)

Reasons:

• 🚫 The operator does not support the service.
• 📵 The SIM card is not compatible with IMS.
• 🔄 Outdated phone firmware.

Solution: Update your phone's software, check your operator support, and try reinstalling your SIM card.

2. Calls are dropped or not received

Reasons:

• 📶 Unstable Wi-Fi (weak signal, high ping).
• 🔒 Blocking ports on the router (VoWiFi uses UDP ports 500 and 4500).
• 📱 Conflict with VPN or firewall.

Solution: Reconnect to Wi-Fi, disable VPN, check your router settings (enable UPnP).

3. Poor sound quality (noise, echo)

Reasons:

• 🎤 Problems with the phone microphone.
• 📡 Wi-Fi network overload (many connected devices).
• 📶 Using public Wi-Fi with speed limits.

Solution: Switch to a mobile network, reboot the router, and test the microphone in another application (for example, a voice recorder).

4. VoWiFi doesn't work abroad

Reasons:

• 🌍 Roaming does not support VoWiFi.
• 📵 Local operator restrictions.

Solution: Check roaming conditions with your operator or use a local SIM card.

⚠️ Attention: If mobile data stops working after enabling VoWiFi, check your APN settings. Some carriers require a separate APN profile for IMS (e.g. ims or volte).

VoWiFi vs. VoLTE vs. Internet Calling: What's the Difference?

Many people are confused Wi-Fi calling (VoWiFi) with other voice communication technologies. Let's look at the key differences:

The main advantage of VoWiFi over internet calls is phone book integrationYou don't need to open a messenger to make a call: just dial the number in the standard Phone app. Furthermore, VoWiFi works even if the other person doesn't have internet (the call goes through the operator), whereas for WhatsApp or Viber Both participants need internet.

And here it is VoLTE and VoWiFi often work together. For example, on Galaxy S23 When VoLTE is enabled, VoWiFi is automatically activated (if your carrier supports both technologies). This allows for seamless transitions between Wi-Fi and 4G without connection interruptions.

Security and privacy when making Wi-Fi calls

Many users are concerned about the security of Wi-Fi calls. After all, data is transmitted over the internet, not through the operator's secure channels. In fact, VoWiFi uses the same encryption protocols as regular calls, but there are a few caveats:

• 🔐 Encryption: VoWiFi is protected by the protocol SRTP (Secure Real-time Transport Protocol), which encrypts voice traffic. This makes it difficult to eavesdrop on conversations.
• 🌐 Wi-Fi addictionIf you're connected to a public network (for example, in a cafe), your traffic could theoretically be intercepted. However, to do this, an attacker would need access to your router.
• 📡 Authentication: VoWiFi uses your SIM card for identification, so scammers won't be able to make calls in your name.
• 📵 Operator restrictionsSome providers block VoWiFi while roaming due to fraud risks.

To improve security:

1. Avoid connecting to open Wi-Fi networks without a password.
2. Use a VPN (but keep in mind that this may reduce connection quality).
3. Update your phone's firmware regularly (updates often patch vulnerabilities).

⚠️ Attention: On some Samsung phones (such as the Galaxy A52), the VPN may automatically disconnect when VoWiFi is enabled. This is due to a conflict between IMS encryption and the VPN tunnel. If privacy is critical, use messengers with end-to-end encryption (for example, Signal).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calling on Samsung

❓ Is it possible to make calls over Wi-Fi without a SIM card?

No, VoWiFi requires an active SIM card, as calls are routed through the carrier's infrastructure. Without a SIM card, you can only use internet calls (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.).

❓ Will Wi-Fi calls be charged like regular calls?

It depends on your carrier. Most providers in Russia charge VoWiFi calls like regular calls, but some plans may have restrictions (for example, long-distance calls may be charged even over Wi-Fi). Check the terms in your personal account.

❓ Why doesn't my Samsung have VoWiFi?

Possible reasons:

• Your model does not support the function (check the list above).
• The operator does not provide the service (especially relevant for Tele2 And Yota).
• Custom firmware installed (official software required).
• The phone's region does not match the operator's region (for example, a US phone on a Russian SIM card).

❓ Can I use VoWiFi on a plane?

Technically yes, but only if Wi-Fi is permitted on board and the carrier supports VoWiFi roaming. However, most airlines prohibit voice calls during flights, even over the internet.

❓ How do I turn off Wi-Fi calling on a Samsung phone?

Go to Phone Settings → Wi-Fi Calling and disable the switch. You can also disable the feature through the quick settings menu (swipe down from the top of the screen).