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How to make a call with Wi-Fi calling
Wi-Fi calling offers a partial solution to spotty cellular service. Once set up, you can make calls when connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network. The best encrypted messaging apps also offer voice and video calls through Wi-Fi, but you and your contact must have the same app.
Most modern Android phones support Wi-Fi calling, including the best budget phones. This guide shows you how to activate Wi-Fi calling and how to make Wi-Fi calls.
What carriers support Wi-Fi calling?
All major U.S. carriers support Wi-Fi calling. Outside the major carriers and their postpaid plans, support for Wi-Fi calling is inconsistent. If you're on a cheaper prepaid plan, it's worth checking your carrier's support pages to learn more about Wi-Fi calling. While your carrier may support Wi-Fi calling, the feature may not work outside the U.S. or on phones that are not certified on your carrier's network.
How to enable Wi-Fi calling
For this guide, we use a Google Pixel 6 with Android 13. But most of these steps should be identical regardless of your Android phone. If you cannot find the setting, search for "Wi-Fi calling" in your Settings app's search bar.
You must set up an address on your line if you wish to use Wi-Fi calling in the U.S. This is because carriers must keep an address on file for 911 emergency response calls.
Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot button in the upper-right corner of your screen.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Calls.
- Tap Wi-Fi calling.
- Turn on Use Wi-Fi calling.
When Wi-Fi calling is enabled, the Call settings menu shows how your call will be made under the Wi-Fi calling heading.
How to make a Wi-Fi call
Wi-Fi calls are handled the same way as regular calls, so you won't need to do anything when making a Wi-Fi call. Your phone compares the strength of your Wi-Fi and cellular networks and automatically routes your call through the strongest one.
Do Wi-Fi calls cost more?
There are no additional charges for making Wi-Fi calls, but remember that if you're not on a plan with unlimited calls, Wi-Fi calls are counted against your regular calling limits. It isn't a way to get around calling limits. However, Wi-Fi calls can save you money when traveling.
U.S. carriers treat Wi-Fi calls as originating from the U.S. This means that even if your plan doesn't include international calls, you can make calls to the U.S. from other countries at no additional charge. However, you will be charged more if you call an international number.
Make calls from more locations
Wi-Fi calling lets you make phone calls in more locations and can result in a better connection. Even in urban areas, there are spots where coverage is patchy, towers are at capacity, or tall buildings may create interference. Wi-Fi calling helps alleviate many of these problems.
