Would you like to make calls even when mobile coverage is down? Wi-Fi calling has become an efficient and simple solution for millions of users. Thanks to this technology, you can communicate without relying exclusively on traditional mobile networks and without using up data from your plan. Discover more What are WiFi calls, how they work, how to activate them on different devices, and all the advantages they offer..
What are WiFi calls?
Wi-Fi calling is a traditional voice call that, instead of using the carrier's mobile network, is transmitted over a Wi-Fi connection. This technology, also known as VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi), offers the ability to make and receive calls from anywhere you have wireless Internet access, even in places where mobile coverage is weak or non-existent.
In essence, it works by integrating the infrastructure of WiFi networks into the communication process, making your phone number remains the same and calls arrive directly and securely to any mobile or landline phone. The recipient doesn't need to have Wi-Fi enabled on their phone or use the same technology.
Why did WiFi calling emerge? This alternative was born in response to the need to maintain communication in places where mobile networks don't reach well, such as basements, buildings with thick walls, rural areas, or the interiors of large buildings. Its great advantage is its complete independence from cell phone antennas and towers, allowing any Wi-Fi access point to act as a gateway to your carrier's voice network.
How Wi-Fi Calling Works: Differences Between VoLTE and VoIP
Wi-Fi calling uses Voice over IP (VoIP), but it differs from typical WhatsApp, Telegram, or Skype calls in several key ways:
- They are made from the conventional telephone app, do not require external apps.
- They do not depend on the recipient having the same function or the same app activated.; you can call any number, mobile or landline.
- The call always shows your own number.
- The charge is the same as for a conventional call. depending on your rate (unlimited, bonus minutes, etc.), and international calls are charged the same as those from the mobile network.
- They do not consume mobile data. Traffic is carried out via WiFi.
Therefore, although they are technically a form of VoIP, they are fully integrated into the operator's telephone system, unlike services like WhatsApp, where both users must use the same app and internet connection to communicate.
How do they differ from VoLTE? While VoWiFi uses WiFi to transmit voice, VoLTE uses the 4G or 5G network for high-quality calls without using up your data plan, but both offer high-definition audio and don't require external apps. The advantage of VoWiFi is its independence from mobile coverage, ideal in places where your phone can barely find a network signal.
Advantages of WiFi calling
- No mobile coverage required: You can make or receive calls anywhere you have Wi-Fi access, even without a mobile signal.
- Improved voice qualityIn environments where mobile coverage is poor but Wi-Fi is stable, Wi-Fi calls are typically clearer and more stable, with fewer dropouts and noise.
- There are no additional costs: They are charged the same as conventional calls, depending on your contracted rate.
- Battery saving: The mobile phone does not have to constantly search for a cell phone antenna, reducing energy consumption.
- You don't need to switch applications: The process is transparent and is done from the usual calling app.
- Universal compatibility: You can call any number, landline or mobile, regardless of whether the other party is using WiFi calling.
- Security: Calls travel encrypted, just as secure as conventional mobile calls.
Limitations and considerations
Requirements for using WiFi calling:
- A compatible smartphoneNot all models support Wi-Fi calling. Most recent Apple devices (from the iPhone 5S onwards) and many Android phones from brands such as Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, OnePlus, Realme, and Sony are compatible.
- Operator that supports the functionIn Spain, major carriers such as Orange, Movistar, O2, Jazztel, and Amena offer this service. Check with your provider to see if you have access.
- Active rateWi-Fi calling is generally included in contract plans, both residential and business. It may not be available on prepaid lines or with certain special configurations.
- Stable WiFi networkCall quality depends on the stability and speed of the wireless network used. It's recommended to avoid public or congested Wi-Fi networks when processing sensitive data.
In what situations are they especially useful?
- In basements, garages, interiors of buildings or homes with thick walls.
- During mobile network outages or signal drops in rural areas.
- In businesses or homes where WiFi is more reliable than mobile coverage.
- To save minutes on your rate if you have a monthly limit.
- In situations where your operator allows you to use the function abroad (roaming over WiFi), although in some cases it is only possible on WiFi networks in Spain.
Compatibility: Mobile phones and carriers that support WiFi calling
Compatibility must be checked at two levelsThe phone must have the appropriate hardware and firmware, and the operator must activate the feature on your line. Currently, most Spanish operators (Orange, Movistar, O2, Jazztel, Amena) offer the service free of charge.
- Apple : All iPhones from iPhone 5S onwards (it is recommended to have the latest version of iOS).
- Samsung: Newer Galaxy S, A, and Note series. On some models, the feature may appear under different names in the settings. Do you want to improve your WiFi signal?
- Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, Realme, OnePlus: Recent models support the service, although some may require specific updates or a system version recommended by the operator.
- Sony, LG, Wiko and others: : Check the model documentation and whether it is on the operator's official list.
- Jazztel, Orange, O2, Movistar and Amena They have developed compatibility lists that are updated periodically on their websites.
How do you know if your phone is compatible? You'll usually find an option called "Wi-Fi Calling" in your network or call settings. If you don't see it after updating your operating system, check with your carrier.
How to activate WiFi calling on your Android phone
- Access your mobile settings.
- Go to the "SIM cards and mobile networks," "Connections," or "Mobile networks" section (the name may vary depending on the manufacturer).
- Select the SIM from the operator compatible with the function.
- Look for the option “WiFi Calling,” “Make calls using Wi-Fi,” or similar, and activate it by sliding the switch.
- Confirm that the option is active by looking for a phone icon with a Wi-Fi signal in the status bar or highlighted in blue.
On some devices, such as Samsung, you can also activate the feature from the quick access bar. If your phone has two SIMs, select which one you want to activate the feature on.
If you don't find the option, always update your operating system to the latest version and check your carrier's website to confirm compatibility..
How to make a WiFi call from your mobile phone
Once enabled, making a WiFi call is as easy as making a traditional call.
- Open the Phone app and access your contacts or dial the desired number.
- Select "Call." The system will automatically use the Wi-Fi network if it's available and the feature is enabled.
- If you prefer, you can temporarily disable mobile data to force a Wi-Fi connection. The screen will usually display "Wi-Fi Calling," "Internet Calling," or an identifying icon.
You don't need to notify the person you're calling. The experience is the same as a traditional mobile call, except that the call is established over the wireless network.
How to enable and use Wi-Fi calling on an iPhone
- Enter the Settings of the iPhone.
- Select option Contact Us.
- Find and click on WiFi calling.
- Flip the switch.
When enabled, you'll see the text "WiFi" after the carrier name in the status bar when the feature is active.
From the same menu, you can manage the feature to also use it on other devices linked to iCloud, such as iPad or Mac.
Troubleshooting common problems
- You can't find the option: Make sure you have the latest operating system update and that your carrier supports the service.
- You can't activate WiFi calling: Restart the device after activating the function and check that the SIM is inserted correctly.
- You can't call over WiFi on public networks.Some corporate, hotel, or airport networks may restrict services like VoWiFi. Try connecting to another network.
- Poor call qualityChoose fast and stable Wi-Fi networks. If you experience delays or dropouts, try another access point.
How much do WiFi calls cost?
WiFi calls are charged according to the terms of your mobile voice contract.If you have unlimited calls, you can enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi calls. If you have a minute bundle, these are deducted from your bundle. International calls, calls to special numbers, or emergency calls follow the same rules as conventional mobile network calls.
There are no extra costs to activate or use them., as long as the feature is included in your plan and you use an unrestricted Wi-Fi network.
Frequently Asked Questions About WiFi Calling
- Can emergency calls be made? Yes, your phone will first try to use the cellular network, but if there's no coverage, it will use Wi-Fi. Your last recorded location will be transmitted to emergency services.
- Is the feature available outside of Spain? VoWiFi service is generally only available on Wi-Fi networks within Spain. Check with your carrier for Wi-Fi roaming conditions.
- Can I use any WiFi network? Yes, as long as it's a compatible public or private access network. It doesn't require the same carrier.
- Are WiFi calls safe? Yes, they travel encrypted and their security level is equivalent to that of traditional mobile calls.
- Is it necessary to install additional apps? No, it's built into your mobile's operating system and phone app.
- Should the receiver also have WiFi calling? No, the service is transparent to the recipient.
- Does it use up my data plan? No, it only requires a Wi-Fi connection. It doesn't deduct megabytes from your mobile data allowance.
WiFi calling vs. messaging app calls
- WiFi calls: They use your phone number, are fully integrated with your carrier, and the recipient doesn't need any special apps or features. They allow you to call national and international landlines and mobile numbers.
- Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype…): They depend on both users having the app installed and don't allow calls to numbers that don't use the app. They often consume mobile data (if not using Wi-Fi), and their quality depends on the bandwidth of the overall connection.
Tips and warnings for using WiFi calling
- Make sure you are connected to a secure WiFi network, especially if you share sensitive information or make important calls.
- If you regularly have poor mobile coverage at home or in the office, prioritize using WiFi calling. to improve the quality and reliability of your calls.
- Deactivate the function if your operator warns you of possible incompatibilities with other services such as multi-SIM or voicemail..
- Keep your phone's operating system and apps up to date to ensure maximum compatibility and security.
Thanks to technological developments, Wi-Fi calling has gone from being a little-known feature to becoming a real alternative for those seeking maximum connectivity without relying on the cellular network. It's completely transparent, easy to set up, and doesn't require advanced technical knowledge. With a modern mobile phone and a compatible operator, you can benefit from the best possible call quality where it was previously difficult or expensive to do so..