For a number of objective reasons, Internet calls are becoming more and more popular all over the world. At the same time, the quality of communication is constantly increasing, and the final price of a conversation is usually significantly lower than for a call over a cellular network, or is completely absent.
In contact with
Of course, the development of IP telephony is mainly influenced by the spread of free Wi-Fi internet distribution points. For example, while abroad, you can make calls from a hotel without roaming charges, or contact the required subscribers from a subway car in a tunnel where cellular communication is simply not available.
One of the main problems with Wi-Fi calls in the past was the need to have appropriate clients on the devices of both subscribers. That is, in order to contact via Skype, for example, both users had to install the appropriate application on their smartphone (or deposit money into their Skype account and make paid calls to regular phone numbers). Now everything is a little simpler.
Function allows you to make and receive phone calls even in places with minimal or no cellular coverage. To use this feature, you need an iPhone 5s or later.
Currently the only operator fully supporting at the hardware level, is "MTS" (how to set up, see below).
In the case of MegaFon, Tele2 and SberMobile, to make calls via the Internet, you will need to install a special operator application (links below), but Beeline users still have to be content with third-party solutions, such as: Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp, Skype and other VoIP clients.
How to enable Wi-Fi Calling with iPhone
First you need to enable support for Wi-Fi calls by going to "Settings" → "Phone" → ... If your operator supports this function, it can be activated, after which the message will appear in the status bar immediately after the operator's name "Wi-Fi".
To call emergency services, you may need to additionally provide or confirm your address. Typically, the iPhone uses cellular for emergency calls, however, if it is not available, calls will be transmitted over Wi-Fi. However, the device can reveal your location even if location services are turned off.
How to make and receive Wi-Fi calls on other devices
You can also make and receive Wi-Fi calls from other iCloud-connected devices, even when iPhone is turned off or connected to a different Wi-Fi network. This feature can be used on the following devices: iPad and iPod touch with iOS 9 or later, Apple Watch with watchOS 2 or later, Mac with OS X El Capitan (not available on computer models, including Mac Pro released before 2012).
In order to make a call via Wi-Fi using an iPad, iPod touch, Apple Watch or Mac, the user needs to:
1. Add a device to use the function in the iPhone.
2. Open the FaceTime app.
3. Select "Audio".
4. Enter a contact or phone number, then tap the handset icon.
5. In addition, this function can be used by clicking on the phone number in the programs "Contacts", "Mail", "Messages", Safari etc.
How to make a Wi-Fi call using Apple Watch
1. Open the application "Phone".
2. Select the desired contact
3. Press the handset icon.
4. Select a phone number or FaceTime address and then call.
How to add a device
Before adding a device, you should update its software to the latest version.
1. Go to the menu "Settings" → "Phone" and activate the functions and "On other devices".
2. Select the required devices for Wi-Fi calling.
4. Turn on the function on the device.
On iPad or iPod touch, go to "Settings" → Facetime → IPhone Calls and select .
On your Mac, open the FaceTime app and go to Facetime → "Settings" → "Settings"and then select IPhone Calls → "Update for Wi-Fi Calling".
5. A 6-digit code will appear on the screen, which you will need to enter on the iPhone and press "Allow".
Apple Watch activates automatically when the option is enabled "Calls to other devices".
If you have problems adding a device, you need to check the following:
On iPhone, check if features are enabled and "Allow calls"... Also make sure the device you are using appears under "Allow calls on devices".
The function "Wi-Fi Calling" (calls over Wi-Fi) was first introduced in iOS 8. However, in Russia this technology has only recently started working. The first operator to declare full support for this option was MTS. Let's take a closer look at what this function is.
What is Wi-Fi Calling
This is a technology that allows you to make calls even if there is minimal or no cellular coverage. The call is made using the operator's network, while Wi-Fi plays the role of a base station.
But you can also make calls via Skype, what's the point of this technology?
The call is made as a regular phone call using your number. Accordingly, the interlocutor does not need the Internet to communicate with you. This is the main difference.
Which iPhone models are supported
Which operators are supported
To date, only MTS has acquired direct support. So far, such calls can only be made in Moscow and the Moscow region. In the future, it is planned to expand the geography of the service provided.
Is it more expensive than regular calls
The cost does not change and is charged at the home rate, even if you make calls in another country.
How to enable this feature
- We go to "Settings".
- We find "Calls over Wi-Fi". This item will be unavailable for unsupported operators.
- We activate the slider.
After that, all calls will be made using the current Wi-Fi network.
Wi Fi router from MTS - this is a very simple and at the same time easy-to-use device for working with several computers at once. This device gives a distribution of communication in the room 50 meters, and in the open about 300 meters, which is considered a very good indicator for a Wi Fi device. Many clients who have home Internet have thought about purchasing at least once wifi router... Our provider offers good quality and low cost wi fi router MTS with the maximum internet speed. Has become more popular among our clients wi fi router DIR - 615, which perfectly supports the distribution of data to several devices at once, is ready at any time to work, has secure access to connect using the latest encrypted program, and is also ideal for the interior anywhere in your home. You can buy a router right away, or rent it with the option to purchase it. Connection and installation is free.
Since mid-November 2016, MTS subscribers in the capital region have received an extremely useful opportunity to receive calls on their smartphones and make calls from it where the mobile network signal is weak or even completely absent - in basements, shops and shopping centers, on long-distance trains and in the metro. The new Wi-Fi Calling feature makes regular calls available when connected to any Wi-Fi hotspot.
This is also a science for me: launch almost any messenger and call. Is not it so?
In most cases, when calling via a messenger, communication can only go with those who have an application installed for the same messenger. Plus, you will miss all calls from those who will dial your mobile number. Unless, of course, you are using.
It looks like we're talking more about some application?
No. Wi-Fi Calling is supported by the smartphone itself, no software needs to be installed. You only need to enable Wi-Fi Calling on your gadget and connect to Wi-Fi.
Enabling Wi-Fi Calling
If everything is already enabled, the availability of calls via Wi-Fi can be judged by the icon in the status bar.
Wi-Fi Calling Availability
Is it difficult to call through Wi-Fi ?
No. You make and receive calls as usual. In this case, calls made over Wi-Fi are marked in the call history. Whether your potential interlocutor has Wi-Fi Calling does not matter.
Calls over Wi-Fi Calling in call history
And how much does it cost?
You pay for calls as usual, at your home rate.
And abroad?
As a bonus for its subscribers, MTS does not limit calls via Wi-Fi abroad until November 2017. Their cost will be no different from a call via a Wi-Fi point in your home.
And how do calls occur that are made with the simultaneous availability of the cellular network and Wi-Fi ?
You decide this yourself in advance. Set the priority of any of the connections, and all calls with a "double" connection will be made as you specify. If no choice is made, calls go through Wi-Fi.
Setting the priority of calls via Wi-Fi Calling
Which smartphones support the new feature?
At the time of launch, in November 2016, the owners of Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge will be able to use the ability to make calls via Wi-Fi. However, the list of supported models will be constantly expanding.
Wi-Fi is calling a service exclusively for Moscow?
MTS has just started to implement the technology, and Moscow has been chosen only as a starting region. Expansion of Wi-Fi calling geography is just around the corner.
What is the difference Wi-Fi calling from MTS Connect?
- an application with rich functionality, especially when communicating between program users. MTS Connect, in particular, allows you to exchange files and correspond in group chats. Calls via Wi-Fi to MTS Connect are just a detail.
At the same time, Wi-Fi calling is an easier-to-use feature that, again, you just need to enable on your phone.
Billions of dollars have been spent by mobile operators in recent years to improve cellular coverage. Despite this, there are still places in our country where mobile communication leaves much to be desired. Fortunately, most carriers are offering a new Wi-Fi calling feature that allows you to make calls or receive messages from almost anywhere a Wi-Fi connection is available.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Wi-Fi calling and smartphones that support the new technology. You will also learn how to enable and use this feature.
What are Wi-Fi calling?
The first thing to know about Wi-Fi Calling is that it doesn't require special hardware or applications. It is a free service offered by many mobile operators around the world.
For many people, their first acquaintance with Wi-Fi calling was through the Skype, WhatsApp or Google Hangouts applications. Mobile operators have decided to keep up with third-party applications, so they offer a built-in function in smartphones for making Wi-Fi calls.
Benefits of using Wi-Fi calls through an operator
There are several advantages to using Wi-Fi calls from your mobile operator. Unlike a third party provider like Skype, WhatsApp, and others, you can use your phone's phone pad and contact list to make Wi-Fi calls.
In addition, there is a smooth transition between cellular and Wi-Fi calls. When your smartphone loses cellular signal, the device automatically switches to Wi-Fi.
When to use Wi-Fi calling
Of course, the most obvious option for using Wi-Fi calling is when you're in a cellular dead zone. Also, Wi-Fi calls will be useful in places with poor coverage.
For example, there is a coffee shop near my house with amazing Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, the building it is in has poor cellular coverage. In this case, Wi-Fi calls are a great way to connect with another person.
How to turn on Wi-Fi calling
To enable Wi-Fi calling on an iOS device, open “ Settings\u003e Phone\u003e Wi-Fi Calling". On this screen, switch " Wi-Fi calls on this device"To position" On". It's worth noting that Wi-Fi calling is disabled by default on iOS devices.
The activation of Wi-Fi calling on Android depends on the device manufacturer. In most cases, you can find Wi-Fi calling in wireless and network mode of your smartphone under “ Additionally».
How do I know if my Wi-Fi calls are enabled?
After you have turned on Wi-Fi calling in the settings, your smartphone will independently determine the best moment to use it. When your smartphone uses Wi-Fi calls, you should see a “Wi-Fi” icon next to your carrier name at the top of the screen.
Summarizing
Thanks to the new Wi-Fi calling technology, cellular dead zones are no longer a problem. As long as you have access to a Wi-Fi network, you can make calls.
The technology is currently under development, so you should check with your carrier if they support Wi-Fi calling. If so, then be sure to enable this feature in your smartphone settings.
