What Is Wi-Fi Calling, and Should You Use It?
Wi-Fi calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using a cellular network. It can be useful in areas where cellular service is weak or non-existent, but Wi-Fi is available.
When you use Wi-Fi calling, your phone uses your Wi-Fi network to establish a connection with your carrier’s servers, which then route your call to its destination. This means that as long as you have a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can make and receive calls even if you have poor cellular service.
Here are some advantages of using Wi-Fi calling:
- Better call quality: Wi-Fi calling can provide better call quality than cellular service, especially if you’re in an area with poor cellular coverage.
- Lower costs: Wi-Fi calling is often free or low-cost, especially if you’re calling international numbers.
- More reliable: Wi-Fi calling can be more reliable than cellular service, especially if you’re in an area with spotty coverage.
- No roaming charges: If you’re traveling abroad and have access to Wi-Fi, you can use Wi-Fi calling to avoid expensive roaming charges.
However, there are some downsides to using Wi-Fi calling:
- It requires a stable Wi-Fi connection: If your Wi-Fi connection is weak or unstable, your call quality may suffer.
- It may use more battery: Wi-Fi calling can use more battery than cellular service, especially if your phone is constantly searching for a Wi-Fi network.
- Limited availability: Wi-Fi calling may not be available on all devices or in all regions.
- Emergency calls may not be reliable: Wi-Fi calling may not work for emergency calls, so it’s always a good idea to have an alternative means of calling emergency services.
In summary, if you have access to a stable Wi-Fi network and want to improve your call quality or save on costs, Wi-Fi calling can be a good option. However, if you rely on your phone for emergency calls or are in an area without Wi-Fi coverage, you should stick with cellular service.