Wi-Fi calling allows users to make phone calls over a Wi-Fi network, prioritizing speech over data in real-time voice environments. It can only be used with dual-mode phones that are supported by both the phone and carrier network. This technology was developed to prevent dropped calls in areas with poor cellular reception and can also benefit those with limited monthly minutes on their carrier plan. Also known as Vo-WLAN, Wi-Fi calling is a form of wireless VoIP or wireless telephony.
What is Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling is a technology that enables users to make phone calls using a Wi-Fi network rather than the cellular network. It has been developed to avoid dropped calls and poor reception in low-signal areas, and it benefits users with carrier plans that include a fixed number of monthly minutes. Wi-Fi Calling must be supported by both the phone and the carrier network.
How does Wi-Fi Calling Work?
Wi-Fi Calling uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to enable phone calls over a Wi-Fi network. When using Wi-Fi Calling, the user’s phone signals to the carrier that it is connected to a Wi-Fi network, and the Wi-Fi network becomes the primary source of connectivity. As the phone is connected to the internet, a voice call is treated as data traffic, and speech is given priority over other activities to ensure that the call quality isn’t compromised.
What are the advantages of Wi-Fi Calling?
The benefits of Wi-Fi Calling are:
- Avoiding dropped calls in areas of poor mobile reception
- Better coverage in homes, offices, or public places with Wi-Fi coverage
- Keeping calls within the monthly minutes limit of carrier plans, allows users to save money
- VoIP provides improved call quality due to the prioritization of speech over other internet activities
What are the disadvantages of Wi-Fi Calling?
The disadvantages of Wi-Fi Calling are:
- A Wi-Fi network is required for Wi-Fi Calling to work, and if you don’t have access to one, the feature can’t be used
- Wi-Fi Calling requires a stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection since Wi-Fi Calling uses VoIP
- Using Wi-Fi Calling drains a mobile phone’s battery faster than when using cellular networks
- Wi-Fi Calling does not support emergency calls being made to 911 or other emergency services numbers in some countries
The conjecture
Wi-Fi calling is a valuable technology that offers better connectivity and improved call quality, particularly for those who work or live in areas with low mobile signal reception. It can prevent missed and dropped calls and can be cost-effective for those with limited monthly minutes. Nonetheless, users must be aware of its disadvantages, such as the requirement for a Wi-Fi network, no emergency services support in some countries, battery drainage, and a stable Wi-Fi connection requirement.
