Modern smartphone usage often leaves subscribers stumped when the cellular signal is lost indoors and they need to make an urgent call. In such situations, technology comes to the rescue. Voice over Wi-Fi, which allows you to make calls over a wireless internet connection. This is especially important for Tele2 users, as the service Wi-Fi Calling integrated into tariffs and does not require separate payment for traffic.
Many subscribers still don't know that their device can function as a full-fledged telephone even in a "dead" radio zone, if there is a router nearby. Call setup Connecting via a wireless network takes just a few minutes, but requires certain conditions on the smartphone and SIM card. If you're in an office with thick walls or a basement, this feature will be a real lifesaver.
In this article, we'll cover in detail how to activate the feature, which phone models support the technology, and what to do if the connection fails. You'll learn how to check the connection status and why. VoWiFi may be unstable. A thorough understanding of the process will allow you to stay connected under any conditions.
What is Tele2's Wi-Fi Calling technology?
Technology Wi-Fi Calling (or VoWiFi) is the transmission of voice traffic over an internet channel instead of traditional radio frequencies from cell towers. For a Tele2 subscriber, this means the call is routed through a home or office router, and the connection quality depends on the internet speed. The operator uses special gateways to route the voice to its main network, so the person on the other end of the line won't notice the difference.
The main advantage is that you don't need third-party apps like Skype or WhatsApp to use this feature. You dial a number from your standard dialer, and the system automatically selects the optimal connection path. Tele2 There is no additional charge for the technology itself; minutes are spent according to your tariff plan, just like with a regular call.
⚠️ Please note: Voice call quality directly depends on the stability of your Wi-Fi connection. If your router is overloaded with downloads or the signal is weak, you may experience delays or disconnections.
It's important to understand that switching between Wi-Fi and a mobile network during a call may cause brief pauses, although modern smartphones try to minimize this effect. SIP protocolVoice over IP (VOIP) requires a constant ping to the operator's servers. If your internet provider blocks certain ports or uses strict NAT settings, this feature may not activate.
Device and SIM card requirements
Before attempting to activate the service, you must ensure that your equipment meets the operator's technical requirements. Not all smartphones, even modern ones, have the necessary hardware or software support. VoWiFi in Russian networks. This primarily concerns devices intended for other markets that were imported through parallel imports.
The SIM card also plays an important role: old plastic Mini-SIM cards or damaged chips may not work correctly with new encryption protocols. It is recommended to use a SIM card of the following format: Nano-SIM, issued no earlier than 2016-2017. If your card is very old, it's best to replace it at a mobile phone store; it's free and takes minimal time.
The operating system must be updated to the latest version. Older versions of Android or iOS may lack the necessary security certificates to work with Tele2 gateways. Check for updates in your phone settings before beginning configuration.
List of fully compatible brands
Apple iPhone (all models starting with the iPhone 6 and newer, with the latest iOS). Samsung (Galaxy S, Note, and A series, since 2017). Xiaomi (flagship models and many mid-range devices with global firmware). Huawei and Honor (pre-US sanctions models and some newer models with Google services). Smartphones running stock Android (Pixel, Motorola, Nokia).
Pay special attention to regional settings. If you bought your phone in China or the UAE, this feature may be hidden by software. In such cases, you'll need to reflash the device to the global version or use special engineering menu codes, which is not recommended without experience.
Activation of the service on the operator's side
Unlike some other operators, Tele2 often requires network-side service activation before it can be activated on the phone. This is done to ensure security and accurate billing. The easiest way is to use a USSD command sent from the main number.
Enter the code on your phone keypad *155*005# and press the call button. The system will automatically process the request and send an SMS notification about successful connection. If the code doesn't work, the service may already be activated by default on your plan or, conversely, blocked in your region.
An alternative option is to use your personal account or the "My Tele2" mobile app. You can often find a "Wi-Fi Calling" toggle in the services or plan settings section. This is a convenient option if you don't want to remember dialing combinations.
| Activation method | Command / Action | Status |
|---|---|---|
| USSD request | *155*005# |
Instantly |
| Personal account | Services section | Instantly |
| Call center | Call 611 | Operator |
⚠️ Please note: After activating the service on the operator's side, you may need to restart your smartphone to receive the new network settings.
Sometimes activation can take up to 24 hours, especially if you've just changed your plan or restored your SIM card. During this period VoWiFi profile It may not load on your device. If the phone icon with the Wi-Fi handset doesn't appear within 24 hours of activation, it's worth contacting support.
Setting up Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone
Apple smartphone owners are the luckiest, as setting up this feature on iOS is highly automated and rarely causes any issues. After you've verified the service is enabled on Tele2, go to the device's main settings. The system usually prompts you to enable the feature if it detects a compatible SIM card.
Go to the menu Settings → CellularIf you have two SIM cards, select the one belonging to Tele2. Find "Wi-Fi Calling" and toggle the switch to on. The system may request confirmation of your address for emergency services—this is a standard procedure required by law.
☑️ iPhone Setup Checklist
In some cases, especially on older versions of iOS, the menu item may have a different name or be missing. Make sure you have the latest version of the operating system installed. Also, check if Wi-Fi Assist in the cellular settings, although it is not critical for VoWiFi operation, it helps maintain stability.
Once enabled, the "Tele2 Wi-Fi" text or a special icon will appear in the status bar next to the operator's name. This means the phone is ready to make internet calls. If the icon disappears after leaving the router's coverage area, the phone will automatically switch to LTE/3G without losing the connection, if the technology is supported. eSRVCC.
Instructions for Android smartphones
On Android devices, the setup process may vary depending on the shell manufacturer and operating system version. Google constantly changes the location of these settings, so sometimes you have to be creative. First, make sure the Mobile Network option is enabled in your settings. VoLTE, as these two technologies are often related.
On "pure" Android (Pixel, Motorola, Nokia) the path usually looks like this: Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Wi-Fi CallingOn Samsung devices, the interface may be hidden deeper: Settings → Connections → Mobile network → Wi-Fi callingOn Xiaomi and Realme devices, these settings are often located within the SIM card menu itself.
If you can't find the switch, use the phone settings search. Enter "Wi-Fi" or "VoWiFi" in the search bar. This is the fastest way to locate the desired menu in the firmware's confusing interface.
- 📱 Samsung: Settings → Connections → Mobile network → Wi-Fi calling.
- 🤖 Xiaomi/Redmi: Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → SIM selection → Enable VoWiFi.
- 🌐 Huawei/Honor: Settings → Wireless & networks → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi calling.
- 🔍 Universal: Use the search in settings for the word "Wi-Fi".
It's important to note that this feature may be hidden on some custom firmware or Chinese devices. In such cases, installing an app can help. Activity Launcher, which allows you to open hidden system menus. However, this method is for advanced users, as incorrect settings can impair the phone's functionality.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting errors
Even with proper setup, there may be situations where calls don't connect or the connection quality is poor. One common issue is IP address conflicts or DNS settings. Try setting up static DNS servers, such as Google's, in your router or smartphone settings.8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1).
It's also worth checking if your router is blocking the necessary ports. SIP protocolFor Tele2, UDP ports 5060 and a range of ports for RTP traffic (usually 10000-20000) must be open. This is rarely necessary in home environments, but it's a common problem in corporate networks with strict firewalls.
⚠️ Important: If you use a VPN on your phone, be sure to disable it before testing Wi-Fi Calling. A VPN changes your IP address and can block connections to your carrier's gateways.
A common mistake is using guest Wi-Fi networks in hotels or cafes, which require web login. Until you log in through your browser, the internet won't work, and therefore, calls won't be able to be made. Furthermore, such networks often block voice traffic to save money.
If all else fails, reset your network settings. This will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth settings, but will return your network settings to factory defaults, which often resolves VoWiFi network registration issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Tele2 charge extra for Wi-Fi calls?
No, the technology itself is free. Call minutes are charged according to your basic plan, just like regular calls. Internet traffic is also not consumed, as the call is made over Wi-Fi.
Is it possible to call emergency numbers (112) via Wi-Fi?
Yes, emergency calls are supported, but with a caveat. The operator must be able to see your location. When connecting via Wi-Fi, geolocation may be inaccurate, so please provide the dispatcher with your exact address immediately.
Why does the Wi-Fi Calling icon appear and disappear?
This could be due to an unstable Wi-Fi signal or the phone switching between power-saving modes. The phone may also automatically switch to the mobile network if the internet quality drops below a certain threshold.
Does the service work in roaming?
When roaming internationally, Wi-Fi calls are charged as incoming/outgoing calls in your home region (if you have the "Unlimited Roaming" option or similar) but the rules may vary. We recommend checking with your carrier before traveling.
How do I disable a feature if it's interfering?
Simply toggle the "Wi-Fi Calling" switch to the "Off" position in your phone's settings. Here's the USSD command to force a network-side disable: *155*006#.