VoWiFi (also known as Voice over Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi calling) is a feature available to most current smartphones that allows your device to make and receive voice calls, texts, and video calls over a Wi-Fi network just like you would make a regular call. If you are in an area where the cellular service is low or no service is available, but there is a Wi-Fi network, VoWiFi will allow you to make calls, extending your coverage and keeping you connected.

The main difference between Wi-Fi calling and an app such as WhatsApp is that VoWiFi allows you to use your phone number, which looks like a regular call. The person you’re calling doesn’t need VoWiFi or any particular app to receive your call; it looks just like a standard phone call. You will need to have a VoWiFi compatible device and a data plan to utilize WiFi Calling.

Enabling VoWiFi on your iPhone is simple. Open your settings menu, choose cellular, select Wi-Fi Calling, and ensure the toggle button is green. To tell if you’re using VoWiFi for your call, swipe down from the top of the screen to view the control center menu, and you’ll see “Inland Cellular WiFi” next to your service bars. Your device must display the text “WiFi” to use Wi-Fi calling. You may see the Wi-Fi icon, but the specific “WiFi” text indicates VoWiFi’s availability.

If you use Wi-Fi for a call and leave the Wi-Fi network coverage, your call will end. The quality of the Wi-Fi coverage you’re using will also affect the quality of the VoWiFi call. We encourage those planning to use VoWiFi calling services while traveling abroad to test Wi-Fi calling on their device before leaving and ensure you understand the international calling charges for the area you’re traveling or calling.

VoWiFi is coming soon for Android users. Samsung will roll out Wi-Fi calling to devices through software updates, making updates available in segments based on device type beginning in early 2025.

 

Wi-Fi calling and messaging charges:

What you’re doing: Receiving any calls or messages, calling to U.S. phone numbers, sending messages to U.S. Phone numbers

What you’re charged for: If you have an unlimited plan, incoming calls and messages and outgoing calls to U.S. phone numbers have no fees. If you have a plan without unlimited, calls and messages count against your plan limits.

 

What you’re doing: Calling or sending messages to international (non-U.S.) numbers

What you’re charged for: When you’re in the U.S. Wi-Fi calling to other countries, or you’re outside the U.S. (international roaming) calling and messaging are subject to your plan’s long-distance charges.

iOS Compatible Devices