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What is WiFi calling and how do you use it?
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When you can’t get signal, WiFi Calling is an easy way to keep the call going without a mobile network. Here’s everything you need to know about WiFi Calling, including what it is, who can use it, and how to enable it
By Virgin Media Edit
- Published
- 18 March 2025
What is WiFi calling?
WiFi calling is a feature that lets you make and receive phone calls over a WiFi connection, even with no mobile network coverage. It works by connecting your phone to a nearby WiFi router, so that you can make clear and reliable calls just like you would on a regular mobile network, and the other person won’t notice a difference.
This makes it especially useful when the mobile signal is weak or unreliable, such as in rural areas, basements, or large buildings with extra-thick walls.
Most modern smartphones have this feature built-in, but it may need to be enabled in your phone’s settings. Once activated, you can use it just like regular calling, and the person on the other end doesn’t need WiFi calling to call you.
They won’t notice any difference on the call, even if they’re using a mobile network. Some carriers also allow texting over WiFi, which can be helpful in areas with poor signal.
How does WiFi calling work?
WiFi calling uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to convert your voice into digital signals that travel over the internet. This is the same technology used by apps like Skype or WhatsApp, but with WiFi calling, you don’t need a separate app.
When you make a WiFi call or send a text over WiFi, your phone connects to the WiFi network and uses it to send the data over the internet. From there, the data gets routed through your mobile provider’s systems to reach the person you are contacting, whether they’re on WiFi, a cellular network, or a landline.
What happens if you get disconnected from WiFi?
With WiFi calling, your phone often automatically switches between cellular and WiFi networks depending on which one has the stronger signal. You don’t need to download any special app or change your phone number for it to work, and if you move out of WiFi range, your calls will switch back to your mobile network.
This process is seamless and automatic. Your phone detects if the WiFi signal is stronger than the cellular signal and switches to WiFi calling if it’s available.
There might sometimes be a slight delay when the switch happens, though!
What are the benefits of WiFi calling?
There are plenty of reasons WiFi calling can be a great feature to have on your phone.
One of the main benefits of WiFi calling is that it improves call quality, especially in places where cellular signals are weak. If you are in a building with thick walls or in a remote area, using WiFi can help you make clearer calls without interruptions. This means you can talk to friends, family, or colleagues without worrying about dropped calls or poor sound quality.
WiFi calling is often cost-effective. Many service providers do not charge extra for calls made over WiFi, especially for domestic calls. This means you can save on your phone bill, particularly if you frequently call long-distance or international numbers. Since these calls typically use your existing internet connection, they do not consume your cellular minutes, which can be a big advantage for those on limited plans.
You can use WiFi calling anywhere there is a WiFi connection, so you are not limited to areas with strong cellular coverage. This is particularly useful when traveling or in places like basements or rural areas where cell towers may be far away. Additionally, most smartphones have WiFi calling built-in, so there’s no need to download extra apps or set up complicated systems.
Using WiFi calling can also help extend your phone's battery life. When your phone constantly searches for a cellular signal, it drains the battery quickly. By switching to WiFi for calls, your phone conserves energy and lasts longer throughout the day. This means you can stay connected without worrying about running out of battery during important conversations.
For many people, home internet connections are more reliable than cellular networks. In areas where cellular service may be spotty due to distance from cell towers or physical obstructions like buildings, WiFi calling provides a dependable alternative that people can rely on. WiFi calling also provides a seamless transition between networks.
If you start a call on WiFi and move out of range, your phone can automatically switch to a cellular network without dropping the call. This means you stay connected even when moving between different areas with varying signal strengths.
How do I turn on WiFi calling?
You’ll be able to turn on WiFi calling in your settings if your phone and network provider supports it. Once enabled, you can automatically use your WiFi network for calls when you’re connected to a WiFi Network and your mobile signal is weak or unavailable.
To activate WiFi calling, follow these steps based on your device type:
For iPhones:
Go to Settings.
Tap on Phone.
Select WiFi Calling.
Toggle on WiFi Calling on This iPhone and follow any prompts.
For Android Devices:
Open the Settings app.
Search for WiFi Calling in the search bar or navigate to the Connections or Network & Internet section.
Toggle on the WiFi Calling option and complete any prompts.
If you can’t see WiFi Calling settings in your settings, make sure your phone and network provider support it. Most modern phones support the feature, but your mobile network provider may need to enable it for your account.
Once WiFi calling is enabled, you can test it by making a call in an area with weak cellular service but a strong WiFi connection. Your phone will usually show that the call is using WiFi with a small icon or notification on the screen.
How do I turn off WiFi calling?
You can turn off WiFi calling in your phone’s settings. If you can’t see WiFi Calling settings in your settings, it’s likely not available for your phone and already turned off.
For iPhones:
Open the Settings app.
Tap on Phone.
Select WiFi Calling.
Toggle off WiFi Calling on This iPhone.
For Android Devices:
Open the Settings app.
Search for WiFi Calling in the search bar or go to the Connections or Network & Internet section.
Toggle off the WiFi Calling option.
You might want to disable WiFi calling if you notice poor call quality on certain WiFi networks, if you’re concerned about security on public Wi-Fi, or if you simply prefer to rely on your mobile network. Once turned off, your phone will default back to using cellular towers for calls and texts.
When should I use WiFi calling?
WiFi calling works great when your mobile network falls short and you have access to a reliable WiFi connection.
If you’re in a building with thick walls, a basement, or a remote area where your phone struggles to connect to a cell tower, WiFi calling can keep you connected as long as you have access to a strong WiFi network.
What broadband speed do I need for WiFi Calling?
To use WiFi calling effectively, you need a stable internet connection with a minimum upload and download speed of 1 Mbps. This speed is usually enough to get clear audio without interruptions on most voice calls.
Beyond speed, stability is crucial for WiFi calling. Even with a fast connection, frequent drops in WiFi or high latency can disrupt calls. Reliable broadband and a well-placed router can help maintain a consistent connection during a WiFi call.
If you’re unsure if your broadband is fast and reliable enough, use our helpful broadband speed checker to see if your broadband is fast enough.
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