How to Turn on Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone and Android

Written by Wilson Amplifiers

28th Apr 2020

Learn How to Make Wi-Fi Calls on Any Device

Like many people, you take your phone everywhere with you. In fact, you might have replaced your home phone with a cell phone. The biggest challenge is reliable service. Wi-Fi calling can make that a lot easier. Most cell phone carriers support Wi-Fi calling and have a very easy set-up process. Once you are set-up, cafés, libraries, gyms, and many other places advertise free Wi-Fi.

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What is Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling allows you to use your smartphone to make and receive telephone calls over a wireless internet connection. Instead of using your own cell phone connection, which may be slow, lack signal at all, or use valuable data allowances, switching to Wi-Fi calling is simple and may offer faster speeds and clearer phone calls. It is very easy to enable Wi-Fi calling right on your smartphone, and an icon in the corner lets you know that it’s on and working.

Why use Wi-Fi calling?

Wi-Fi calling is useful when you are in an area with weak cellular or internet coverage. Wi-Fi calling saves on your data rates by taking you off of your network. Under most circumstances, Wi-Fi calls are free. The ability to hook up to other networks is built right into your smartphone. While there are some extra features in apps like Skype, there’s a much easier way to take advantage of Wi-Fi calling, by turning the feature on in your phone settings. Once you enable Wi-Fi calling, your phone has the ability to scan for available Wi-Fi networks and automatically connect to them. Some Wi-Fi networks require a password and permission. Other networks are free and open for anyone to use.

Are there any drawbacks to Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling requires that you be near a Wi-Fi network, and all places you go may not have coverage. Signal strength may vary on different networks depending on how many people are on the network with you. Depending on your phone’s plan, you may be using some of your data or minutes. Some places do not support Wi-Fi calling at all.

Connecting to a Wi-Fi network means that you are on a public system. Information may be more readily shared, and you may be at a further security risk. Mobile carriers typically encrypt voice data, but there is still an increase risk from hackers. Using a network that requires a password or setting up a VPN offers increased protection.

How to Turn on Wi-Fi calling on your Android phone?

Here are the standard steps to set up Wi-Fi calling if you have an Android Phone. Instructions may vary depending on your provider and model of phone. Consult the Help features on your phone or your provider’s website if these do not work.

In the Apps, click Settings
Click on the word Connections
Move the slider next to Wi-Fi to the right. It will light up and turn blue.

Your phone might also work in another way. Try this:

When your phone is unlocked, take your finger and swipe down from the top of the screen.
There will be a row of symbols. If you swipe down again, your screen will open with even more symbols.
There is one called Wi-Fi. Click on this symbol and move the slider button to the right to turn it on.
If you click on it again, another screen will open with Wi-Fi options.
Your phone will search for available networks. Some will have a symbol that looks like a padlock. Those require a password. Some will be public networks that you can automatically connect to.
If you don’t see the network you are looking for, click the Add Network to enter information. Once you add the Network name and password, if will always be a choice on this menu.
If the network you are using is not working, choose another one on the list. Your phone will pick the closest and easiest network to connect to. If that network is overcrowded, it might be slower, and you might want to try another available network.

How to Turn on Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone?

Here are the standard steps to set up Wi-Fi calling if you have an iPhone. Instructions may vary depending on your provider and model of phone. Consult the Help features on your phone if these do not work.

Open the Settings App
Tap Phone > Wi-Fi Calling
Switch the Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone slider to On
Tap Enable to turn on Wi-Fi Calling
NOTE: There may be some warning about location and information your carrier collects that you may need to agree to. This is important for emergency calls and services.

Once Wi-Fi calling is enabled, an icon will appear after the name of your service provider on your status bar.

What if I’m having trouble?

Each cell phone carrier and model of phone tend to be just a little bit different in the way they have their icons and programs setup. If you go to the Help menu on your phone, and type in Wi-Fi, there should be easy instructions for your specific device. Additionally, each carrier has instructions on their website. Stopping at your local phone store for personalized instruction is also an easy option.

For AT&T

For Verizon

For T-Mobile

Should I use Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi is another option for making phone calls and using the internet when you are away from your home network. Turning it on and off on your phone is very simple and quick. Many public places and businesses are offering it as a perk. Now that you know how it works, the benefits, and drawbacks, it’s an option for a cheap and easy way to stay connected.

How May We Help You?

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