No Mobile Signal at Home? This Smartphone Feature Can Let You Make Calls Using Wi-Fi

Poor mobile network coverage can make phone calls frustrating, especially inside buildings, basements or areas where cellular signals are weak. But if your smartphone and telecom connection support Wi-Fi Calling, you may still be able to make and receive regular calls using a Wi-Fi network.

The feature is particularly useful when your home has a strong broadband connection but weak cellular reception.

What Is Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi Calling allows compatible smartphones to route regular voice calls through a connected Wi-Fi network when cellular coverage is weak or unavailable.

It doesn't turn your phone into an internet-only calling device. You can generally use your normal phone number, and the person you're calling doesn't necessarily need Wi-Fi Calling enabled.

How Does It Work?

When Wi-Fi Calling is enabled, your phone can use an available Wi-Fi connection to connect with your mobile operator's network.

If the cellular signal is weak but the Wi-Fi connection is reliable, the phone can use Wi-Fi to carry the voice traffic.

Depending on the network and device, the phone may also switch between Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity as network conditions change.

How to Turn It On

The exact steps vary between Android phones and iPhones.

On many Android devices, you can look under:

Settings → SIMs/Mobile Network → Wi-Fi Calling