What is Wi-Fi calling, how does it work, and what are its pros and cons?

What is Wi-Fi calling?

Wi-Fi calling is a handy feature that lets your phone make and receive calls over the internet instead of relying on cell towers. It’s especially useful when you’re dealing with spotty mobile coverage or want to avoid pricey call charges while abroad.

Popular apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime have let people call over the internet for years. But Wi-Fi calling works a bit differently — it uses your existing phone number and blends right into your phone’s built-in calling app, so you don’t need to switch between separate apps.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi calling and regular calling? 

Wi-Fi calling and regular calling will get your voice to the other person in two entirely different ways. Regular calls travel through cellular towers — those tall antennas you’ve seen scattered across the landscape. Your phone connects to the nearest tower, which then routes your call through the mobile network to reach the person you’re calling.

Instead of the towers, Wi-Fi calling uses your internet connection. From your perspective, both feel the same. You dial the same way, use your phone’s regular calling app, and the person you’re calling sees your usual number. The only difference you might notice is a slight change in call quality, depending on how strong your internet is.

How does Wi-Fi calling work?

As we've learned by now, Wi-Fi calling lets your phone send voice calls through the internet instead of relying on cellular towers. When you speak, your phone converts your voice into tiny digital data packets, sends them over the internet, and reassembles them into audio on the other end — it's similar to sending a voice message in real time.

There are two main types of Wi-Fi calling. Carrier-based Wi-Fi calling works through your mobile provider’s network. Once you turn it on, your phone will automatically switch between cellular towers and Wi-Fi depending on which signal is stronger — giving you a seamless calling experience.

App-based Wi-Fi calling uses internet calling services that operate independently from your carrier. Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Zoom build their own calling networks, so they only need a solid internet connection.

Each method has its perks. Carrier-based Wi-Fi calling blends into your phone’s regular calling experience, while app-based options often offer cheaper international rates and extra features.

If you’re planning to travel, using an eSIM can make having an internet connection abroad even easier. The Saily eSIM app will provide you mobile data so you can use Wi-Fi calling and stay connected wherever you go.

Pros and cons of Wi-Fi calling

Wi-Fi calling has changed how we stay in touch, making it easier to call when cellular signals are weak. The ability to move between Wi-Fi and cellular networks in the background has solved problems that frustrate travelers and remote workers alike.

Still, like any technology, it isn’t perfect — and knowing its advantages and disadvantages can help you decide if it’s right for you:

In short, Wi-Fi calling can be a game changer if you often face poor coverage or want to save on international calls — just make sure you have a reliable internet connection to get the most out of it.

How much does Wi-Fi calling cost?

The cost of Wi-Fi calling depends on how you use it and who your provider is, but it’s often far more affordable than people expect. Most mobile carriers include Wi-Fi calling at no extra charge when you’re calling numbers within your usual plan coverage. So if you have unlimited minutes, those calls stay unlimited, even over Wi-Fi. Charges only start to climb if you’re making international calls, and even then, the rates are usually the same as your carrier’s regular international calling fees, which can range from about US$0.50 to a few dollars per minute depending on the country.

If you’re using app-based services like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype, calls between users are typically free, while calls to regular phone numbers abroad are often much cheaper than carrier rates — sometimes just a few cents per minute.

The only hidden cost to consider is data usage. Wi-Fi calling uses a small amount of data (usually less than 1 MB per minute for audio), so it won’t affect you if you’re on Wi-Fi, but it can add up if you accidentally use mobile data instead.

However, Wi-Fi calling is one of the simplest and most budget-friendly ways to make calls, especially when traveling.

How to enable local carrier Wi-Fi calling on your phone

If Wi-Fi calling is off, your phone will default to using nearby cell towers, which can mean dropped calls or no service in low-signal areas.

You don’t need special equipment — just a Wi-Fi connection, a compatible device, and a mobile plan that supports Wi-Fi calling. The person you’re calling doesn’t need to be on Wi-Fi themselves, and they don’t even have to have Wi-Fi calling turned on. But if you’re unsure if it’d work for you, it’s worth checking your phone’s specs and carrier’s plan details to confirm support before starting.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on an iPhone

These steps will turn on local carrier Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone:

1. Open the "Settings" app.

2. Go to "Apps," then tap "Phone" and select "Wi-Fi Calling."

3. Toggle on "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone."

4. Read and accept any terms or emergency address prompts from your carrier.

Once it’s on, your phone will automatically use Wi-Fi for calls whenever your cellular signal is weak.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on Android

Here’s how to enable local carrier Wi-Fi calling on Android devices (exact labels may vary by model):

1. Open "Settings."

2. Go to "Connections" or "Network and Internet."

3. Select "Mobile Network" or "SIMs", then tap "Wi-Fi Calling."

4. Toggle it on and follow any on-screen prompts from your carrier.

Your phone will now switch between Wi-Fi and cellular networks based on which has the stronger signal.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on VoIP apps

If your carrier doesn’t support Wi-Fi calling, or you prefer an alternative, you can use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom. These work entirely over the internet and don’t rely on your mobile provider.

1. Download your chosen app from the "App Store" or "Google Play."

2. Create an account and give the app permission to use your microphone and contacts.

3. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.

4. Start a call directly through the app interface.

These apps are handy for international calls, as most offer free or very low-cost rates when calling other users on the same platform.

Common Wi-Fi calling issues and how to fix them 

Wi-Fi calling is usually simple to set up, but like any tech feature, it can sometimes be a bit temperamental. Here are a few of the most common issues you might run into — and how to get things working again:

• The Wi-Fi calling option isn’t showing up. Make sure your phone and mobile plan actually support Wi-Fi calling. On iPhone, check "Settings" > "Phone" > "Wi-Fi Calling." On Android, go to "Settings" > "Connections" or "Network and Internet" > "Wi-Fi Calling." If you don’t see it, contact your carrier to confirm support.

• Wi-Fi calling is enabled, but calls still use cellular. This often happens when your cellular signal is stronger than Wi-Fi. Try putting your phone in airplane mode, then manually turn the Wi-Fi back on. It will force the device to use Wi-Fi for calls.

• Poor call quality or dropped calls. Wi-Fi calling depends on your internet connection. If your calls sound choppy or keep dropping, move closer to your router, switch to a faster Wi-Fi network, or restart your router to refresh the signal.

• Calls are not going through at all. Restart your phone to clear any temporary glitches. Also, double-check that data roaming is turned on if you’re traveling, as some carriers require it for Wi-Fi calling to work abroad.

• Emergency location info is missing. Some carriers require you to add an emergency address before you can make Wi-Fi calls. If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to register your current address — it only takes a minute.

Tips for effective Wi-Fi calling

A few minor tweaks can make a big difference in how well Wi-Fi calling works. Keep these simple tips in mind for a smoother experience:

• Stick to a strong, stable Wi-Fi connection. The clearer your connection, the clearer your call. Stay close to your router and avoid networks that drop out frequently.

• Prioritize private networks over public ones. Public Wi-Fi in cafes or airports can be slow and crowded. Whenever possible, use home, hotel, or office networks for better reliability.

• Keep your phone’s software up to date. Regular updates often include improvements for network performance and Wi-Fi calling features, so don’t skip them.

• Enable Wi-Fi calling before you need it. Turn the feature on in your phone settings ahead of time so it’s ready to go when your cellular signal disappears.

• Switch to airplane mode if the cellular signal interferes. If your phone keeps defaulting to a weak mobile network, enable airplane mode and then turn Wi-Fi back on to force Wi-Fi calling.

Wi-Fi calling — some key takeaways

Wi-Fi calling is a simple way to stay connected when cellular coverage drops — or when you just want to cut down on roaming costs. It routes your calls through the internet instead of cell towers, which can save money and boost reliability in low-signal areas.

Like any technology, it has its trade-offs. It works best with a stable, high-speed connection, and call quality can suffer on crowded or slow networks. Still, for most travelers and anyone who often deals with spotty service, it’s a handy backup that can make staying in touch far less stressful.

Think of Wi-Fi calling as one more tool in your travel toolkit: easy to set up, reliable when you need it, and ready to keep your conversations going no matter where your adventures take you.