Wi-Fi calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of relying solely on a cellular network. It uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to transmit voice data over the Internet, making it possible to place calls in areas with limited or no cellular coverage, as long as there is a Wi-Fi network available. This guide will walk you through setting up Wi-Fi calling on smartphones and computers, enabling you to stay connected effortlessly.
Wifi signal icons created by kerismaker – Flaticon
What are the benefits of WiFi calling?
- Improved call quality: Wi-Fi calling can provide clearer and more reliable voice calls, especially beneficial in areas with poor cellular coverage or in buildings with thick walls that might interfere with cellular signals.
- No charges: Making calls through Wi-Fi calling, especially international calls, can save you money by avoiding incurring international calling costs from your carrier.
- Extended coverage: You can make and receive calls even in places where there is no cellular signal but a Wi-Fi network is available.
- Multi-device support: Wi-Fi calling is supported by many devices as long as they are equipped with the necessary hardware and software.
How to set up WiFi calling on phones?
Ways to set up WiFi calling can vary slightly depending on the specific make and model of your smartphone, but the general steps are relatively similar. Here we list the guidelines for several phone brands. Make sure your carrier supports calls over Wi-Fi before actions.
iPhone
- Navigate to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling.
- Toggle the slider next to Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone.
- Tap Enable in the pop-up message and you might need to enter or confirm your address for emergency services.
Now you have turned on Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone. Once you are connected to a Wi-Fi network, it will automatically switch from a cellular network to Wi-Fi by showing Wi-Fi next to your carrier’s name in the top-left corner of your lock screen.
Android
On Google phone, open the Phone app, tap the three dots to open a menu, and select Settings. Then tap Calls > Wi-Fi Calling, and toggle it on.
If you’re a Samsung fan, go to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi Calling, and enable it.
You might find the process to set up the WiFi calling on other Android devices slightly differs. When you’re connected to the internet, you’ll see Internet Call or Wi-Fi calling on the notification screen.
How to set up laptop calling?
Wi-Fi calling is primarily a feature available on smartphones and some specific mobile devices, but you can also make calls on computers using VoIP services.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an innovative technology that enables the transmission of voice and multimedia content over the Internet, replacing traditional telephone lines. To set up VoIP calling, there are two methods.
Method 1 – VoIP applications
You can achieve similar functionality as WiFi calling by using VoIP apps like Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Voice, or other communication platforms that support voice or video calling over the Internet.
Here are the general steps to set up voice calling using these apps:
- Download and install the application on your computer.
- Launch the app and create an account.
- Grant necessary permissions. Allow the application to access your microphone and speaker so that you can make and receive calls.
- Initiate a call. For some apps, you may need to add contacts or invite participants. Follow the specific instructions in each application to make or receive calls.
However, this method requires the caller and receiver to download and launch the same app on devices. If you prefer an app-free calling (e.g. calling someone’s phone without apps pre-installed), check the next method.
Method 2 – VoIP service providers
A VoIP service provider is a company that offers Voice over Internet Protocol services to businesses and individuals. You can choose a free phone number and use an app to make or receive calls, while the other side of the line doesn’t need to do anything but use their phone to call as usual.
Generally, take the following steps to make calls:
- Sign up with a VoIP service provider and select a specific phone number.
- Use the provider’s app to dial a regular phone number or receive calls.
- Make full use of the provider’s advanced features like a virtual receptionist, extension dialing, call recording, helpdesk software and sales CRM when available.
Since VoIP service is a must for businesses to engage with customers and teams, it’s a paid subscription. Several providers are introduced below for your reference.
- Nextiva — The Best Business Phone Service by U.S.News
- Ooma — Competitive pricing for both businesses and residential users
- Grasshopper — Vanity, local, or toll-free phone numbers with a 7-day free trial
- GotoConnect — Insights into call metrics, call quality, and user activity with a 30-day free trial
Wi-Fi calling is a valuable feature that ensures seamless and versatile communication even in challenging cellular areas. Hope you find this post helpful for setting up Wi-Fi or VoIP calling on phones and computers.