Wi-Fi Calling What is Wi-Fi calling

What is Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling lets you make phone calls and send text messages without being connected to your cellular service. It requires a wireless connection but costs nothing.

It uses IP technology to connect through the internet as opposed to a cell tower.

You do not need to download an app to use it. Apple and Android phones have the feature built in.

Why Use Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling can be used when you are unable to receive a cellular signal. We have all been in a situation where we cannot make a call or send a message due to a weak or nonexistent signal. This can be especially frustrating if you are at home or at the office since you spend so much time in those locations. A poor signal can be a major inconvenience. You can use Wi-Fi calling at home, at work or in other locations where you are having a hard time connecting to your mobile carrier.

Is Wi-Fi Calling Safe?

When connecting to your home or company network Wi-Fi calling is safe. When using a public Wi-Fi, it is generally safe because most mobile carriers encrypt your data. But public Wi-Fi always has more security concerns than a trusted network.

How Do You Enable Wi-Fi Calling?

Both iPhone and Android make it easy to enable the feature.

For an Android phone go to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi Calling.

For an iPhone go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling.

Pros & Cons

Like everything else there are some pros and cons to Wi-Fi Calling.

Pros

  • It sounds better. Especially on newer phones which have improved, updated Wi-Fi technology. The sound will also be better using Wi-Fi in an area where you have a weak cellular signal.
  • More reliable connection in an area where you do not receive a strong cellular signal.
  • It is free, most people have unlimited text and talk, but not all. There is no charge when using Wi-Fi.

Cons

  • A Wi-Fi connection may be weak in some area’s such as buildings with a lot of stone or steel, or at crowded venues such as airports, hotels, stadiums and other public places where you may not be close enough to establish a strong connection or where there are a lot of people using the same network.
  • Not all phones and carriers support Wi-Fi calling. Although this is becoming less common. Most new phones and carriers do support it.
  • Range is limited based on Wi-Fi availability.

It is a good idea to enable Wi-Fi calling. Then if you are in a location where you are not receiving a strong signal you will have an alternative.