What is WiFi calling? Does it cost extra to use WiFi calling?

In an era where staying connected is more essential than ever, WiFi calling emerges as a valuable feature for many smartphone users. It leverages wireless internet connections to make and receive phone calls, offering an alternative to traditional cellular networks. This technology can be particularly beneficial in areas with poor cellular reception but strong WiFi signals. Let’s delve into what WiFi calling is, how it works, and whether it's a suitable option for you.

What is WiFi Calling?

WiFi calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive voice calls, send text messages, and access voicemail over a WiFi network instead of using your mobile carrier's cellular network. When enabled, your smartphone connects to a nearby WiFi network to facilitate these communications. This can be especially useful in places where cellular signals are weak or nonexistent.

Most modern smartphones support WiFi calling, and major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and others offer this feature as part of their service packages. It usually does not require any additional apps, as the functionality is built into the phone's operating system.

How Does WiFi Calling Work?

WiFi calling works by using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. When you make a call, your voice is converted into data packets and transmitted over the internet. On the receiving end, these packets are reassembled into sound. The process is seamless, and the person you are calling does not need to have WiFi calling enabled or even be aware that you are using it.

Is WiFi Calling Free?

Generally, WiFi calling is included in your regular phone plan, so you won't incur additional charges for using it. Calls and texts made over WiFi are typically billed the same as they would be over the cellular network.

However, it is important to note that WiFi calling is not always supported for international calls. It is important to check if your home telco supports international calls using WiFi calling; and if so, whether it is part of your call minutes.

For most US telcos, making WiFi calls to international numbers would be charged as international calls and may incur additional fees; but making calls to US numbers even when you are overseas would count towards your minutes and wouldn’t incur additional charges. As this is telco and plan dependent, it is important to check the terms of your phone plan to understand what is included.

Should You Use WiFi Calling?

Whether you should use WiFi calling depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are a few scenarios where WiFi calling could be particularly beneficial:

• Poor Cellular Reception: If you live in an area with poor cellular reception but have access to a reliable WiFi network, WiFi calling can significantly improve your call quality and reliability.
• Frequent International Travel: For frequent travelers, if your phone plan supports WiFi calling to home numbers regardless of your physical location, WiFi calling can help avoid expensive international roaming charges, allowing you to stay in touch with your family back at home without worrying about exorbitant fees.

However, if you have strong cellular coverage and rarely encounter issues with your mobile network, you might not see much added value from enabling WiFi calling. Additionally, if you often make emergency calls, relying solely on WiFi calling might not be advisable due to potential location accuracy issues.

Get a Nomad travel eSIM to stay connected on your next trip

Having a good and reliable internet connection is crucial if you will be relying on WiFi calling to make calls home as you travel. The good news is that having internet connection while abroad does not need to be expensive!

Nomad offers data plans in over 170 countries, and you can be sure to find one that is suitable for your travel needs. And if you will be traveling across multiple countries, there are also regional plans available so you can stay seamlessly connected as you hop between countries. Data plans are available from as low as $1.10/GB.

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