The Wi-Fi handset icon on a Samsung Galaxy: Why it appears and how to remove it permanently

Have you noticed on yours? Samsung Galaxy Is there a strange icon in the status bar that looks like a handset with a Wi-Fi antenna? This icon indicates an active function. VoWiFi Voice over Wi-Fi (Voice over Wi-Fi) is a technology that transmits voice calls over a wireless network instead of a cellular one. While this feature is useful for improving connectivity in areas with poor coverage, it can be disruptive to many users, causing visual distraction, draining battery life, or interfering with other services.

In this article we will look at all ways to disable the icon — from standard settings to hidden engineering menus. You'll learn why the icon may return after a reboot, how to check your carrier's VoWiFi support, and what to do if the feature is blocked at the firmware level. And also— A unique method for models with One UI 5.0+, which is not described in the official Samsung documentation.

Important: Some methods require administrator privileges or modification of system files. We'll warn you of the risks upfront so you can choose the safest option. Let's start with the easiest!

What does the Wi-Fi handset icon on a Samsung mean?

The handset icon with Wi-Fi waves indicates that the function is enabled. VoWiFi (or Wi-Fi Calling). This technology allows:

• 📞 Making calls over the internet instead of a cellular network is useful in places with poor coverage (basements, remote areas).
• 🔋 Save battery life as your phone switches between networks less frequently.
• 🌍 Stay connected abroad without roaming (if your operator supports this option).

However, the function also has its downsides:

• 🔄 The icon remains in the status bar even when you're not making a call.
• 📶 May reduce internet speed during an active call.
• 🔒 Some operators block VoWiFi for certain plans.

On Samsung Galaxy The icon appears automatically if:

1. Your operator supports VoWiFi (for example, MTS, Beeline, Megaphone in Russia).
2. The option is enabled on the phone Wi-Fi calling in the SIM card settings.
3. You have a SIM card that supports this technology (not all virtual operators provide it).

Method 1: Disabling VoWiFi in the default settings

The safest and most recommended method is to deactivate the feature through the phone menu. These instructions apply to all models. Samsung Galaxy on One UI 3.0 and later (including S23, S22, A54, A34 and others).

How to remove the icon:

1. Open the app Settings (gear on the main screen).
2. Go to the section Connections → Mobile Networks.
3. Select your SIM card (if you have more than one).
4. Tap on the item Wi-Fi calling.
5. Move the slider to the position Off

After this, the icon should disappear within 10-30 seconds. If the icon remains, restart your phone.

⚠️ Attention: On some operator firmware (for example, Tele2 or Yota) paragraph Wi-Fi calling may be hidden. In this case, try method 2 or 3.

Method 2: Reset network settings (if VoWiFi won't turn off)

If a standard shutdown doesn't work, the problem may be in the network settings cache. A reset will return the connection settings to factory defaults, but will not delete personal data (photos, contacts, etc.).

Instructions:

1. Go to Settings → General Management → Reset.
2. Select Reset network settings.
3. Confirm the action by entering the PIN code or pattern.
4. After rebooting, check if the icon has disappeared.

This method also helps if:

• 📱 The icon appears by itself after updating the firmware.
• 🔄 VoWiFi is activated automatically when connected to a specific Wi-Fi network.
• ⚙️ There is no option in the settings Wi-Fi calling, but the icon is displayed.

⚠️ Attention: After the reset, you'll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords and set up your VPN (if you used one). Write down important information beforehand.

What to do if resetting doesn't help?

If resetting doesn't remove the icon, the problem may be with your carrier's firmware. Some versions of One UI (for example, for Samsung Galaxy J6+ or A10) have built-in VoWiFi support. In this case, only method 4 (the engineering menu) or a firmware update will help.

Method 3: Disabling via USSD code (for advanced users)

Some carriers allow you to control VoWiFi using hidden USSD commands. This method doesn't work on all SIM cards, but it can be a lifesaver if the default settings are blocked.

Try entering it in the app Telephone the following commands:

• ##4636## → Phone information → Wi-Fi Calling Provision → Disable.
• *#0011# → click Menu (three dots) → Wi-Fi Calling → Off.
• For MTS: *111*4636# (call) → follow voice instructions.

If nothing happens after entering the code or an error appears Connection problem or invalid MMI code, then your operator does not support such control.

⚠️ Attention: USSD commands are subject to change without notice. If the code no longer works, please contact your operator via support chat or the official website for the current combination.

Method 4: Engineering menu (for advanced users)

If the previous methods don't work, you can try disabling VoWiFi through the engineering menu. This method requires caution— Incorrect actions may disrupt the network!

Instructions:

1. Open the app Telephone and enter *#0011#.
2. Click on the three dots (Menu) in the upper right corner.
3. Select Service Mode (or Engineering menu).
4. Go to the section Wi-Fi Calling or IMS Settings.
5. Find the parameter VoWiFi Provisioning and set the value Disabled.
6. Save the changes and restart your phone.

On some models (Samsung Galaxy S20, Note 10) the path may differ:

Engineering menu → [1] UMTS → [1] Debug Screen → [6] IMS → Wi-Fi Calling → Disable

If after these steps the icon still appears, check:

• 🔄 Is the function not enabled? Automatic connection to Wi-Fi in the settings.
• 📶 Has the firmware been updated recently (sometimes updates reset settings).
• 🔧 Are there any third-party network management applications installed (for example, Network Signal Guru).

Method 5: Removing the icon via ADB (for developers)

This is an extreme method that requires unlocked USB debugging and access to ADBSuitable for users who are comfortable working with the command line.

What you will need:

• 💻 A computer with installed Platform Tools (ADB and Fastboot).
• 📱 Enabled USB debugging on your phone (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times, then Settings → Developer options → USB debugging).
• 🔌 USB cable for connection.

Commands to disable VoWiFi:

adb shell
su
settings put global wifi_calling_enabled 0
settings put global wifi_calling_available 0
reboot

If the icon remains after rebooting, try the following:

adb shell am broadcast -a android.intent.action.AIRPLANE_MODE --ez state true
adb shell am broadcast -a android.intent.action.AIRPLANE_MODE --ez state false

⚠️ Attention: Using ADB can cause your phone to malfunction if you enter incorrect commands. Do not change other system settings without understanding their purpose!

Why does the Wi-Fi handset icon return after being disconnected?

Even after successfully disabling VoWiFi, the icon may reappear. Here are the main causes and solutions:

If the problem persists, try:

1. Install another calling app (eg. Google Phone instead of the standard one).
2. Disable automatic connection to Wi-Fi in Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced.
3. Contact your operator's support team and ask them to disable VoWiFi at the SIM card level.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the VoWiFi icon on Samsung

Is it possible to remove the icon without disabling the VoWiFi function itself?

No, the icon only appears when the feature is active. If you need VoWiFi for calls but don't like the icon, try hiding it using apps like Nacho Notch (root required).

Why did the icon appear again after updating Android?

Updates often reset network settings. Disable VoWiFi again (method 1) and check if any new menu items have been added. Mobile networks.

Is VoWiFi draining my battery? How can I check?

Go to Settings → Device Care → Battery → Battery Usage. If Mobile data or Telephone If your phone consumes more than 10% of its battery, VoWiFi may be the cause. Disable it and compare the consumption.

My carrier doesn't support VoWiFi, but the icon is there. Why?

Your phone may be incorrectly detecting support for this feature. Try:

1. Insert another SIM card (for example, from MegaFon, if you have Tele2).
2. Reset network settings (method 2).
3. Update firmware via Settings → Software Update.

Is it possible to disable VoWiFi permanently so that the icon does not return?

Yes, but this will require:

• Remove system application IMS Service (root required).
• Or reflash the phone to a custom firmware without VoWiFi support (for example, LineageOS).

Both methods are risky and will void the warranty.