Table of Contents
Are you tired of poor phone signal quality at home or work? You don’t have to deal with it anymore; thanks to Wi-Fi calling, you can make calls and send texts even with a weak or nonexistent cellular signal, as long as you are connected to Wi-Fi. In this article, we will guide you on setting up and using Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone and discuss the pros and cons of this feature.
What is Wi-Fi calling?
Wi-Fi calling is an innovative feature that allows you to use your Wi-Fi connection to make and receive phone calls and text messages when your cellular signal is weak or unavailable. This feature extends coverage beyond the reach of cell towers, allowing you to stay connected from virtually anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection on your iPhone.
What are some benefits of calling through Wi-Fi?
One of the most significant advantages of Wi-Fi calling is improved call quality, especially in areas with poor cellular coverage. Additionally, Wi-Fi calling saves you money on your mobile phone bills by enabling you to make phone calls and send texts over Wi-Fi for free, even when you’re roaming internationally. Furthermore, Wi-Fi calling allows you to stay connected anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection even in low or no signal areas like basements or underground passages. You can also use Wi-Fi calls to call emergency services even without a cellular signal.
Which iPhones can use Wi-Fi calling?
You can use Wi-Fi calling on iPhones from the iPhone 5c model or higher with iOS 8.3 or later. Wi-Fi calling is also compatible with iPad, iPod touch (with iOS 9 or later), Apple Watch (with watchOS 2 or higher), and Mac (models from 2012 or newer with El Capitan or later).
Which providers support Wi-Fi calling?
Several providers support Wi-Fi calling, and the list of compatible providers may differ depending on the country. Some of the major U.S. providers that support Wi-Fi calling include AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile USA, and Verizon Wireless, and for the UK, British Telecom, EE, O2, and Vodafone all support Wi-Fi calling.
How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone
Enabling Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone is a simple process. Navigate to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling, and toggle the slider to enable Wi-Fi calling. You may need to follow further instructions based on your carrier’s requirements.
Note that, during the setup process, your carrier will prompt you to share your location and identification information with them, and that your location will also be shared with emergency services if you make an emergency call.
Some iPhone users may experience a delay of up to 24 hours before Wi-Fi calling becomes active. If you encounter any difficulties, contact your service provider.
FAQs
1. Does Wi-Fi Calling Cost Extra?
Wi-Fi calling does not cost extra, but using it may eat up your Wi-Fi data. If you want to avoid this, it’s best to connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network whenever possible. If you opt for Wi-Fi calling, it’s still best to have an unlimited data plan so that you don’t have to worry about going over your data limit.
2. How Do I Know if Wi-Fi Calling is Working?
You can tell if Wi-Fi calling is enabled by checking the top of your iPhone screen; if the word “Wi-Fi” appears beside the signal strength indicator, it means that Wi-Fi calling is on. Alternatively, check your provider’s website to confirm if your subscription includes Wi-Fi calling service. If you find that your Wi-Fi calling is not working, contact your service provider.