- You can use Wi-Fi calls on your Android or iPhone to make calls over Wi-Fi instead of your mobile network.
- Wi-Fi calls are useful for cell service purposes or in buildings with mock service.
- Wi-Fi calls are not automatically activated on all phones – you have to make the change manually.
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If you have struggled in your office or apartment with mock cell services, there is a simple solution called ‘Wi-Fi call’.
Wi-Fi calling is exactly what it sounds like: making calls and sending messages over your internet connection, rather than your cell phone service. But first you need to enable the feature on your iPhone or Android device.
Although all major carriers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, offer Wi-Fi calls, the cost to you depends on your plan. Wi-Fi calls are not a sneaky way to save money or minutes: the same rates and monthly limits apply.
Once you turn on Wi-Fi calls, you do not need to do anything special to turn them on. This is automatic.
You can set up Wi-Fi calls in a few easy steps.
How to enable Wi-Fi calls for iPhone
Wi-Fi calls are not automatically activated on your iPhone, but once you change the settings, you will make Wi-Fi calls when connected to the internet.
1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Tap “Cellular”.
Go to “Cellular.”
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3. Browse to “Wi-Fi calls” under your service provider information.
Tap “Wi-Fi calls.”
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4. Turn on “Wi-Fi call on this iPhone”.
Swipe the button to the right and turn it green.
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5. Tap “Activate” in the pop-up menu.
Select “Activate” in the pop-up window.
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6. A pop-up page will appear informing you of 911 calls – tap “Continue.” Update your emergency address, which lets emergency services know where your home is when you call 911. If a cellular service is available, your phone will bypass the Wi-Fi signal for your own safety.
7. You will know that it works if there is a Wi-Fi signal next to your service provider name at the top of your screen.
How to enable Wi-Fi calls for Android
Your phone will bypass a weak signal for a Wi-Fi signal, but you can set the preference between the two. Since Android phones are changeable, there is no single step that applies to every phone. You can always just search for “Wi-Fi calls” in your search bar to adjust the settings.
1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Tap “Networks and Internet” or “Connections”, depending on your Android device.
On this version of Android, go to “Connections” in Settings.
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3. Tap “Mobile Network.” Depending on your device, ‘Wi-Fi call’ may be an option here, without having to go to ‘Mobile network’ first.
4. Tap “Advanced”.
5. Tap “Wi-Fi calls.” Turn it on.
Swipe the “Wi-Fi call” switch to the on position.
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6. Update your emergency address, which lets emergency services know where your home is when you call 911. If a cellular service is available, your phone will bypass the Wi-Fi signal for your own safety.
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