The modern pace of life dictates its own conditions, and high-quality communication is becoming not a luxury but a necessity. Users often face situations where wireless internet coverage is excellent indoors, but cellular service is intermittent or nonexistent. This is where technology comes to the rescue. Voice over Wi-Fi, which allows you to make voice calls via the Internet channel.
MTS is actively implementing this service, allowing subscribers to stay connected even in areas with poor cellular coverage. This feature doesn't require installing additional apps like Skype or Viber—calls are made through the standard phonebook interface, but data is used from the existing data plan, not voice.
Before proceeding with the technical setup, it's important to ensure that your plan supports this option. Some providers may charge separately for voice minutes over Wi-Fi or require a special package. It's also worth checking whether this feature is blocked at the account level, as it may be disabled by default on older plans.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff terms and service availability are subject to change. Before setting up, be sure to check the current list of options in your personal account or contact your operator to avoid unexpected charges.
Technical requirements and device compatibility
Wi-Fi calling isn't available on all devices. It requires not only carrier support but also the appropriate smartphone hardware and software. First, make sure your device is certified for Wi-Fi calling. VoWiFi in MTS networks.
The list of supported models is constantly expanding. These are typically modern smartphones released no earlier than 2016-2017. However, the availability of a new model does not guarantee the feature will work, as much depends on the firmware version and regional version of the device.
- 📱 iPhone 5s and later (requires iOS 13 or later for full compatibility).
- 📱 Samsung Galaxy S, Note, A series (starting with 2017 models).
- 📱 Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO (many models, but firmware verification is required).
- 📱 Huawei and Honor (pre-sanctions models and some new ones).
An important aspect is the operating system version. Even if the phone is powerful, it still runs on an outdated version. Android or iOS The menu item may be missing. We recommend updating the software to the latest available version before beginning setup.
⚠️ Attention: On devices imported from other countries (Chinese versions without global firmware), the function may not appear in the menu even with technical support for the hardware.
Activation of the service on the operator's side
Before you dig into your phone's settings, you need to activate the service itself on the MTS network. Without permission from the base station, the technology won't work, no matter how many sliders you toggle in the smartphone's menu. This is the basic security protocol, preventing unauthorized access.
There are several activation methods. The easiest is to use a USSD command, which works even without internet access. You can also use your personal account or the operator's mobile app, which is often more convenient for visually monitoring enabled options.
*111*1688#After entering the command, a notification confirming successful activation will appear on the screen. If the service is already connected, the system will notify you of this. In some cases, activation may take up to 24 hours, although the process is usually instantaneous.
Setting up Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone (iOS)
Apple device owners are especially fortunate: the setup process is extremely simplified and standardized. If your iPhone supports this feature and your SIM card is activated, the necessary menu items will appear automatically after updating your carrier profile.
To enable it, go to the main device settings. The path may vary slightly depending on the version. iOS, but the logic remains the same. You'll need a stable internet connection when turning it on, as the phone will contact the server for verification.
- Open the menu
Settings. - Go to the section
Cellular communications. - Select an item
Wi-Fi calling. - Activate the switch Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone.
After activation, the system may ask you to provide an address for emergency services. This is a mandatory requirement from communications regulators, as location determination works differently when calling over the internet. Please provide your current residential or work address.
| Parameter | Meaning / Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| iOS version | 13.0 and later | The latest version is recommended |
| Model | iPhone 5s and newer | Including SE of all generations |
| Address E911 | Input required | For emergency services |
| Status | Active | Indicator in the status bar |
☑️ Check iPhone settings
Instructions for Android smartphones
World Android The menu is more diverse, so the interface may vary. Manufacturers (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei) often change the menu layout, but the keywords remain similar. The main task is to find the section related to SIM cards or mobile networks.
On Samsung devices, the solution is usually found in the connection settings menu. On Xiaomi and other brands with MIUI or ColorOS, the logic may be hidden within the SIM card menu itself. If you don't find this option immediately, search for "Wi-Fi calling" in your phone's settings.
Algorithm of actions for most devices:
- 🔍 Go to
Settingssmartphone. - 📡 Select a section
ConnectionsorSIM cards and mobile networks. - 📞 Find the item Wi-Fi calling (Wi-Fi Calling).
- ✅ Move the toggle switch to the position
On.
In some cases, you may need to select a network priority. The system will ask whether to prioritize mobile data or Wi-Fi if both signals are available. To save data and improve indoor performance, it's best to prioritize Wi-Fi.
⚠️ Attention: On some Android models (especially custom ROMs), this menu item may be hidden. In this case, you may need to install a special configuration file or update it through a service center.
What to do if the item is not in the Android menu?
If you're sure your phone supports the technology but don't see the option in the menu, try resetting your network settings to factory defaults. This won't delete your data, but it will restore the modem's default configuration. Navigate to: Settings -> System -> Reset -> Reset Network Settings.
Diagnosing and solving common problems
Even with proper setup, issues may still occur. Most often, problems are related to an unstable internet connection or software conflicts. If connection quality is declining and calls are being dropped, it's necessary to channel diagnostics.
The first thing to check is your Wi-Fi router's speed and ping. VoWiFi technology is sensitive to latency. If the ping is higher than 100-150 ms, voice may be interrupted or delayed. Also, make sure your router doesn't have strict traffic filtering enabled or ports used for SIP protocols blocked.
A common cause of errors is outdated firmware on your router or smartphone. Update your router's firmware to the latest version, as manufacturers frequently fix compatibility issues with new communication standards.
Call indication and pricing
Understanding how your connection status is displayed helps you manage your data usage. When the feature is active and working, a special indicator appears in the status bar (usually next to the carrier name or Wi-Fi icon). On iPhone, this indicator displays "MTS Wi-Fi," while on Android, it displays a phone icon with a Wi-Fi symbol.
Regarding pricing, there's an important nuance. Calls to Russian numbers use up minutes from your basic plan, just like regular calls. However, if you're abroad, the technology allows you to call Russian numbers at your home network's rates, saving you significant roaming costs.
Incoming calls over Wi-Fi are always free, regardless of your location, as long as you're within your carrier's home network coverage area or while roaming (provided the service is activated). Outgoing calls to numbers in other countries are charged according to international roaming terms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you charge for calls over Wi-Fi?
If you're in Russia, calls use up your plan's minutes. If you're abroad, calls to Russian numbers are charged as domestic calls (free or with a minute package), which makes this technology more convenient than standard roaming.
Does Wi-Fi Calling work without a SIM card?
No, to log into the operator's network and make calls, the MTS SIM card must be installed in the device and have a signal for registration, even if the call itself is made over the internet.
Why does the Wi-Fi Calling icon disappear?
The icon may disappear if the phone loses internet connection, if you move out of your carrier's home network coverage area (when roaming), or if the smartphone switches to the EDGE/2G network for a voice call due to a weak Wi-Fi signal.
Can you use this on the metro?
Yes, if there's free Wi-Fi in the metro and your phone has time to connect before the call starts. However, due to frequent tower changes and short connection times in the metro, stability may be poor.