Wi-Fi Calling: What it is, how much data it consumes, do users need to pay extra and all other answers – Times of India

We often see our voice calls routed through Wi-Fi Calling these days. Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone all support Wi-Fi Calling feature. Wonder what it is and how it works? Wi-Fi Calling allows customers to make and receive calls and texts (SMS and MMS) over a Wi-Fi network. In simple term, in Wi-Fi calling the call is routed through a Wi-Fi network instead of telecom service provider’s network. There is no need for a separate app or log-in to use Wi-Fi Calling. So, here’s everything you need to know about Wi-Fi calling.
Does Wi-Fi Calling consume data? How much data will a Wi-Fi call use?
Yes, WiFi calling consumes data from the Wi-Fi network the user is connected to. It does not consume user’s mobile data.
What are the benefits of Wi-Fi Calling?
The benefits include:
* Uses your existing phone number, no additional logins or app required
* Available at no additional charge
* Can be a backup solution for spotty cellular network. Helps connect in case of signal issues in remote areas or cellular-dark zones of a building.
* It’s included at no additional charge.
Do users need a special pack to use Wi-Fi Calling?
No, plans from all telecom service providers support Wi-Fi Calling services.
Do users need to pay extra internet charges for Wi-Fi Calling?
No. A Wi-Fi call is treated same as a regular voice call.
Are Wi-Fi Calls comparable in quality to regular calls?
Yes, when the device is in range of a reliable Wi-Fi network, Wi-Fi calls and cellular (VoLTE) calls are quite similar in quality. As per Airtel, users can enjoy HD calls anywhere they have Wi-Fi coverage.
What are the technical requirements for Wi-Fi Calling?
For Wi-Fi calling to work, a customer must have the following technical requirements:
* Access to a Wi-Fi router with broadband connection
* A Wi-Fi calling-enabled smartphone
* Latest software needs to be updated
* Wi-Fi Calling should be enabled in the phone
How much data will be consumed during a Wi-Fi Call?
Wi-Fi calling uses minimal amount of data. As per Airtel, a 5 minutes call consumes less than 5MB data. The actual data usage of voice or video call may vary.
Can users make Wi-Fi calls that do not support Wi-Fi-Calling?
Yes, users can make Wi-Fi calls to any phone on any other network (2G/3G/4G/VoLTE/Wi-Fi) just like normal voice calls.
Can users use Wi-Fi Calling during roaming?
Yes, users can use Wi-Fi calling during national roaming across India (except in Jammu & Kashmir).
How do I know if my handset is capable of Wi-Fi Calling?
You can check the handset capability on your respective telecom service provider’s website.
Do users need to change SIM to use Wi-Fi calling services?
No, there is no need for a sim change. Wi-Fi Calling works with SIM which is being used for VoLTE.
Can Wi-Fi calling be used for making international calls?
Yes, Wi-Fi Calling can be used to make an international call from India. However, users cannot use WiFi calling in international roaming.
Can I make conference call while using Wi-Fi calling services?
Yes, users can. There is no limitation in making conference calls, it works quite similar to normal conference call.
Within what range of broadband, can one use Wi-Fi calling?
The range in which Wi-Fi calling service can be used is dependent on the corresponding broadband connection and the signal strength of the telecom service provider.