How to use Wi-Fi calling

Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone and Android enables users experiencing reception problems to have a stronger call connection over broadband via Wi-Fi.

How to use Wi-Fi calling
a Wi-Fi router and a person holding a mobile phone

Wondering how to use Wi-Fi calling?

Wi-Fi Calling is a feature on the iPhone that enables users experiencing reception problems to have a stronger call connection over broadband via Wi-Fi. The connection is generally encrypted, which is reassuring for those relying on shared Wi-Fi.

Many users may not even realize they have the power to improve their call quality. Before we proceed, make sure that you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network as Wi-Fi calling isn't possible without one. 

Here’s a quick step-by-step to show you where the Wi-Fi calling tab is located and how to turn it on. 

How to turn on Wi-Fi calling on iPhone

You can turn on Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone in just a few steps.

1. Tap 'Settings' on your home screen 

an iPhone home screen with an arrow pointing to 'Settings'
Credit: screenshot from an Apple iPhone

Very simple. Find the "Settings" icon on your home page and click it. 

2. Select 'Phone' 

an iPhone 'Settings' menu with 'Phone' highlighted
Credit: screenshot from an Apple iPhone

It should have a green icon next to it right under "Voice Memos." 

3. Tap 'Wi-Fi Calling'

an iPhone 'Phone' settings tab with 'Wi-Fi Calling' highlighted
Credit: screenshot from an Apple iPhone

You can’t miss it. 

4. Toggle 'Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone' on

The next screen will give you the option to toggle "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone" on. Once you do, you'll get a pop-up asking if you'd like to enable Wi-Fi calling. Tap "Enable."

an iPhone pop-up asking 'Enable Wi-Fi Calling?'
Credit: screenshot from an Apple iPhone

Now, you’ve enabled Wi-Fi Calling. You also can toggle this feature off. 

How to turn on Wi-Fi calling on Android

Oh, don’t worry Android users. We got you, too. 

1. Tap your Settings tab on the home screen 

a Samsung mobile phone home screen with an arrow pointing to the 'Settings' icon
Credit: Screenshot from a Samsung phone

Easy so far, right? 

2. Find 'Connections' 

a Samsung mobile phone 'Settings' menu
Credit: Screenshot from a Samsung phone

Not much scrolling will be needed because it should be the first title you see on the setting screen. Tap that.

3. Select 'Wi-Fi Calling'

a Samsung mobile phone 'Connections' tab with an arrow pointing to the 'Wi-Fi Calling' on-off toggle
Credit: Screenshot from a Samsung phone

It should be located right under ‘WiFi’. From there, you can toggle the option on or off. 

Keep in mind that having Wi-Fi calling on can drain your battery, so use this feature at your own discretion. Maybe make sure you have a portable charger on hand in case you find your phone's battery percentage is decreasing. 

Also, if you’re concerned about Wi-Fi calling accounting to your current phone plan, check with your carrier to see if it will count towards your minutes. Wi-Fi calling does not use up your mobile data.

Enjoy better quality phone calls moving forward.