Find out what VoWiFi, also called Wi-Fi Calling, is for and learn about the benefits of this type of call.VoWiFi allows you to make voice calls over Wi-Fi networks. The main advantage of this technology is to provide good quality calls, especially when there is no cellular network coverage or the signal is very weak.To work, Wi-Fi Calling must be offered by your telephone operator. Additionally, you must have a compatible smartphone with the feature enabled.
How does Wi-Fi calling work?
- What does VoWiFi mean?
- Why does Wi-Fi Voice appear on my cell phone?
- How does Wi-Fi calling work?
- Do I need to download apps to make Wi-Fi calling?
- Can I make a call via Wi-Fi without having credit on my cell phone?
- Can I call a landline using Wi-Fi?
- What are the advantages of Wi-Fi calling?
- What are the limitations of Wi-Fi calling?
- What is the difference between VoWiFi and VoLTE?
- What is the difference between VoWiFi and VoIP?
What does VoWiFi mean?
VoWiFi is an acronym for Voice over Wi-Fi, which in Portuguese means voice call over Wi-Fi. It is a technology that allows you to make calls over the internet instead of connecting to a cell tower, and is available in various smartphones and mobile operators.
Why does Wi-Fi Voice appear on my cell phone?
If your Android cell phone displays the Wi-Fi Voice or VoWiFi icon, it means that the smartphone will use the Wi-Fi network to make and receive traditional calls, with the same number as your SIM card. This way, the cell phone will not connect to your operator’s telephone towers.
The same happens if Vivo Wi-Fi or Claro WiFi appears in the iPhone’s status bar. In this case, the device will use Wi-Fi Calling technology to make and receive calls.
Wi-Fi Calling technology indicators may appear any time the cell phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network. In some cases, VoWiFi technology is only activated when the device is outside the coverage area or has a weak cell signal .
Wi-Fi Calling symbols on smartphones with Android and iOS (Image: Reproduction/Tecnoblog)
How does Wi-Fi calling work?
How Wi-Fi calling works is very similar to a conventional call. Instead of the cell phone communicating with telephone towers, the voice is converted into data, which is sent to the Wi-Fi router. The bytes then pass through the internet connection and reach the internet operator’s servers (IMS) .
At the operator, the call is decoded and processed as in a call made via the traditional mobile network. From there, the call is forwarded to the next party, whether a cell phone or landline.
How Wi-Fi Calling technology works
Do I need to download apps to make Wi-Fi calling?
There is no need to download applications to use Wi-Fi Calling technology. You must have a compatible device and service plan and activate VoWiFi on your cell phone .
Can I make a call via Wi-Fi without having credit on my cell phone?
No. Calls made using Wi-Fi Calling technology are charged according to the user’s service plan. In situations like this, it is possible to make calls over Wi-Fi using applications such as WhatsApp and FaceTime.
Can I call a landline using Wi-Fi?
Yes. VoWiFi technology allows you to call a landline or cell phone. The caveat is for emergency numbers, such as 190 and 192, as operators are unable to determine the location in Wi-Fi Calling and forward the call to the nearest center.
What are the advantages of Wi-Fi calling?
VoWiFi has benefits for those who want to make calls in places without a cell phone signal. The main advantages of Wi-Fi calling are:
- Expanded coverage: Wi-Fi Calling allows you to make and receive calls using your number anywhere with Wi-Fi internet, useful in places where there is no coverage or the signal is weak.
- Same rate as the mobile plan: as VoWiFi works via the internet, you can make and receive calls with your number when traveling abroad and avoid international roaming charges.
- No registration required: as Wi-Fi Calling authentication is done via SIM Card, there is no need to enter passwords or create accounts.
- No apps needed: just activate Wi-Fi calling directly in your smartphone’s settings.
What are the limitations of Wi-Fi calling?
Despite the advantages in terms of coverage, VoWiFi has some disadvantages that can hinder or make its use unfeasible. The main limitations of Wi-Fi calling are:
- Compatibility: not all cell phones have the Wi-Fi Calling feature built in.
- Availability by operator: not all telcos offer VoWiFi to their customers.
- Plan segregation:some operators, such as Claro, limit Wi-Fi calling technology to customers with postpaid plans.
- Call quality: If your Wi-Fi network and internet connection are not stable, you may experience dropped calls.
What is the difference between VoWiFi and VoLTE?
VoWiFi technology allows a smartphone to connect to Wi-Fi and make conventional calls using the internet network. On the other hand, VoLTE calls use mobile networks with 4G LTE or 5G technology to establish communication.
What is the difference between VoWiFi and VoIP?
VoWiFi allows you to make conventional calls over the internet when your cell phone is connected to Wi-Fi networks , and depends on the resources provided by the operator. VoIP technology comprises all calls that pass over the internet, including calls via WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime and the like.
Conclusion
Wi-Fi calling is a powerful feature that enhances your communication capabilities by utilizing a Wi-Fi network for phone calls. With its benefits of increased coverage, cost savings, improved call quality, and seamless integration, it has become an indispensable tool for many smartphone users. By understanding how Wi-Fi calling works, you can take full advantage of this technology and stay connected wherever you go.
