Modern smartphones Samsung Galaxy Offer a variety of features to improve connection quality, one of which is VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) technology. This feature allows for voice calls over a wireless network, which is especially useful in areas with poor cellular coverage. However, not all users need this feature, as it can cause conflicts when switching between networks or incorrectly charge traffic for some providers.
A common situation arises when a phone "clings" to a weak router signal instead of using a strong base station signal, which leads to interruptions in calls. In such cases Disabling Wi-Fi calling becomes necessary to restore connection stability. The deactivation process is simple, but may vary depending on your One UI version and device model.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the available ways to control this feature. You'll learn how to find the necessary settings in the menu, how to use engineering codes, and what to do if a menu item is hidden by your carrier. We'll also explore the nuances of how the technology works in roaming and the impact of different firmware versions on the switch layout.
What is VoWiFi and why should you disable it?
Technology Voice over Wi-Fi (often labeled as Wi-Fi Calling) allows voice traffic to be transmitted over the internet rather than through standard GSM or LTE cellular network voice channels. For users, this means the ability to make calls from basements, remote summer cottages, or buildings with thick walls where a standard signal cannot penetrate. Smartphone Samsung In this case, it works like a VoIP client, but using your regular phone number.
Despite the obvious benefits, there are scenarios where it's better to disable this feature. Firstly, with an unstable Wi-Fi connection, audio quality can drop sharply, causing artifacts or interruptions. Secondly, some mobile carrier plans don't include voice traffic over Wi-Fi in their minutes, treating it as data traffic, which can lead to unexpected charges.
Additionally, constantly searching for and maintaining a connection to an access point for voice calls can drain your battery faster, especially if the router is at the limit of your range. It is important to understand that disabling this feature will force the phone to switch to the cellular network, even if the Wi-Fi signal is weak.
- 📉 An unstable internet connection causes voice interruptions.
- 💰 Additional costs may apply if unlimited traffic is not included.
- 🔋 Increased battery consumption in standby mode.
- 🔄 Conflicts when switching between networks during a call.
⚠️ Important: Before disabling this feature, make sure you have a strong cellular signal in the area. Otherwise, you may lose connection completely if your Wi-Fi router stops transmitting calls and LTE coverage is limited.
The standard way to disable it is through the phone settings.
The easiest and safest way to manage the call function is to use the standard Android settings menu. On smartphones Samsung With One UI, the path to these settings is generally the same, but the names of the options may vary slightly. To get started, open the Settings app from the home screen or notification shade.
In the menu that opens, you need to find the section responsible for connections. Depending on your operating system version, it may be called "Connections" or "Network and Internet." This is where the main switches for SIM cards and wireless interfaces are located. Find the item Wi-Fi Calling or "Wi-Fi Calling".
If you have a dual SIM device, the system will prompt you to select which SIM card you want to change the settings for. After selecting the SIM card, you'll see a toggle switch that can be moved to the "Off" position. An advanced network priority menu is often also available here.
☑️ Check before disconnecting
After toggling the switch, a notification may appear at the top of the screen stating that calls will now be made only via the cellular network. This is standard system behavior. If you don't find this option in the main connections menu, try searching for "Wi-Fi" in the settings.
Setting network priority for calls
In some firmware versions One UI A more flexible setting is available, allowing you to not only disable the feature but also prioritize networks. This is a useful option for those who want to use Wi-Fi only when there is no cellular service. This setting prevents the phone from "jumping" between networks.
To access these settings, go to the menu Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi CallingHere you may see a subsection called "Call Settings" or "Preferred Network." The system will prompt you to select one of the options for how your smartphone behaves when both signal types are available.
Selecting the right mode helps optimize device performance. For example, "Cellular Only" mode completely disables internet calling, even if Wi-Fi is active. "Prefer Cellular" mode allows Wi-Fi to be used only when there's no signal.
| Opening hours | Description of behavior | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| Prefer Wi-Fi | The phone always uses Wi-Fi for calls if available. | Areas with very weak LTE/3G signal. |
| Prefer cellular network | Uses Wi-Fi only when there is no cellular signal. | Standard mode for most users. |
| Cellular network only | Completely ignore Wi-Fi for voice calls. | Saving traffic or an unstable router. |
| Automatically | The system automatically selects the network with the best signal quality. | For users who do not want to configure manually. |
Changing these settings does not require a device reboot and takes effect immediately. Please note that when roaming abroad, priority settings may work differently, as they depend on agreements between carriers.
Impact of roaming on settings
When traveling abroad, your carrier may force Wi-Fi calling to avoid roaming charges. In this case, your phone's local settings may be locked or hidden until you return to your home network.
Using the engineering menu and codes
For advanced users who don't find the options they need in the standard interface, there's the option of using service codes. On smartphones Samsung This is often a hidden menu accessible through the Phone app. However, it's worth keeping in mind that the engineering menu interface may differ depending on the processor (Exynos vs. Snapdragon).
To enter the diagnostic menu, a code is often used ##4636## or Samsung-specific combinations such as #27663368378#In the list that opens, find the section related to telephony (Phone Information). Hidden switches for VoWiFi may be located here.
Be careful when changing settings in the engineering menu. Incorrect settings may result in loss of network registration or improper modem operation. If you are unsure of a setting's value, it's best not to change it.
⚠️ Note: Service menu interfaces may change with Android security updates. If the code doesn't work or the menu is empty, use only the default settings.
An alternative method for some models is to use an app Samsung MembersThe diagnostics section sometimes includes network tests that indirectly affect connection settings, although there's usually no direct call switcher.
Disabling features for different Samsung models
The logic of the interface may vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture of the device and the version of the shell. One UIOwners of flagship series Galaxy S And Galaxy Z usually have full access to all settings, whereas in budget series Galaxy A or M Some items may be hidden or renamed.
On older models running Android 9 or 10, the settings path may look like this: Apps → Phone → Three dots → Settings → Wi-Fi CallingIn newer versions, such as One UI 5.0 and above, everything has been moved to the main system settings menu for convenience.
Regional firmware versions are also worth considering. Devices purchased in the US or China may have a different menu structure than their European counterparts due to differences in communication standards and local carrier requirements.
If you've updated to the latest version of Android but can't find the toggle, try resetting your network settings. This will reset all connection settings to factory defaults, and the feature may reappear in the menu, allowing you to disable it correctly.
Operator issues and hidden settings
A common reason for the lack of a "Wi-Fi Calling" option or the inability to disable it is mobile operator policy. Some providers block this feature at the SIM card profile level or hide the menu on the phone to control the quality of service provided.
In such cases, even the presence of technology support in the smartphone Samsung It doesn't work. The operator can force VoWiFi to be enabled for all subscribers with compatible plans. Resolving the issue often requires calling customer support or visiting a mobile phone store to change the service settings.
Sometimes removing and reinserting the SIM card after disconnecting Wi-Fi helps. This will re-register the phone and update the carrier profile. You can also try manually selecting a carrier in the mobile network settings, disabling automatic selection.
- 📞 Call your operator and check the status of your VoWiFi service.
- 🔄 Try manually selecting a network in your mobile network settings.
- 📲 Update your operator profile through your SIM card settings.
- 🗑️ Remove and re-add the APN (with caution).
In rare cases, installing a special configuration file from your carrier to unlock hidden menus may be required. These files are usually available on the provider's official websites in the support section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does disabling Wi-Fi Calling affect internet speed?
No, disabling voice calls over Wi-Fi does not affect data transfer speeds. Your internet will continue to function normally, but voice calls will only be made over the cellular network.
Do carriers charge extra for Wi-Fi calling?
In most cases, Wi-Fi Calling minutes are charged according to your main plan, just like regular minutes. However, when traveling abroad, conditions may vary, so it's best to check with your provider before your trip.
Is it possible to disable the feature for only one SIM card?
Yes, on smartphones with two SIM cards, Wi-Fi calling settings are configured individually for each SIM card. You can leave the feature enabled on one card and disable it on the other via the menu. Settings → Connections.
Why did the switch disappear after updating the firmware?
When updating the system, network settings may be reset or the menu path may change. Your carrier may also have updated their profile on your device. Check the "Connections" section again or reset your network settings.