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 growing, and the final price of a conversation is usually significantly lower than for a call over a cellular network, or is completely absent.
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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" → "Telephone" → ... 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 "Telephone".
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" → "Telephone" 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:
Check if features are enabled on iPhone and "Allow calls"... Also make sure the device you are using appears under "Allow calls on devices".
April 2018 was marked by a pleasant innovation for MTS subscribers, thanks to which it became possible to make calls via Wi-Fi networks. And today in our article we will look at information about the possible use cases of the new offer, and also talk about who it is available to.
Calls over the Internet using VoLTE technology on MTS
This technology allows making voice calls over 4G / LTE networks, in which the sound quality is at the HD level. In addition, such calls can be made in conjunction with the use of the mobile Internet. This means that you can, for example, conduct a conversation over a speakerphone or through a headset, while surfing the network, launch videos or audio recordings in various online services. Another advantage of the technology is almost instant dialing, even faster than in today's popular instant messengers.
The option of making calls via VoLTE to MTS is available for use on all modern sim-cards, and Internet traffic when making calls is not consumed from the prepaid quota.
The disadvantages of the technology are, perhaps, only the following points:
- Inability to use the service in international roaming;
- Temporary work of the service only on the territory of the capital and the Moscow region, St. Petersburg, Voronezh and their regions (the zone is constantly expanding);
- Outgoing calls are provided for a fee (according to the tariffication terms of the used TP);
- The service is available only on relatively new devices, starting with SamsungS7, iPhone6 \u200b\u200b/ SE and newer.
How to connect or disconnect VoLTE on MTS
- USSD combination *111*6# connects VoLTE calls;
- Combination *111*6*01# disables;
Calls over the Internet via Wi-Fi Calling on MTS
The Wi-Fi Calling service allows MTS subscribers to make calls via Wi-Fi networks even if there is no coverage of the operator's network. It is noteworthy that for this you do not need to install any applications analogous to instant messengers, and the service works even abroad.
In order to make a call using Wi-Fi Calling technology, subscribers need to do the following:
- Activate the Wi-Fi Calling service on the smartphone (for example, on the iPhone, this is done as follows: Settings\u003e Phone\u003e Wi-Fi Calling)
- Connect to any Wi-Fi network (be it a home router or a guest network in a hotel, cafe, train station, airport).
- Check the activity of the Wi-Fi Calling icon, and then make a call the way you used to do it over cellular networks (that is, absolutely normal).
Outgoing calls within the Wi-Fi Calling service are charged according to the standard conditions of the tariff plan used. Incoming calls are available free of charge.
As for connecting the service, the activation / deactivation procedure is performed using the same commands as in the case of VoLTE ( *111*6# and *111*6*01# to enable and disable respectively).
Calls over the Internet using "MTS Connect"
The third version of the service of making calls to MTS via the Internet implies the need to use a special application "MTS Connect". The application is almost a complete analogue of today's popular instant messengers. Its functionality includes the following main features:
- Text correspondence tete-a-tete and in group chats;
- Making calls via the Internet;
- Sending files;
- Geo-position exchange;
- Setting statuses, avatars and photos;
- Possibility of using in international roaming.
You can download the corresponding version of the application today for iOS and Android devices using the following links:
- For iPhone (works on iOS 8.0 and above);
- For Android devices (runs on Android 4.0 and above).
Cost of calls through the "MTS Connect" program
- Outgoing calls to MTS numbers from any country in the world at all tariffs are free and unlimited. If you have a tariff with packages of minutes, then calls through MTS Connect do not spend this limit.
- Incoming calls are free and unlimited at all tariffs.
- Outgoing calls to numbers of other operators are charged according to the terms of the tariff for calls in the home region (there is no extra charge for roaming).
The cost of using traffic when making calls via "MTS Connect"
- On tariff "X" ("IKS", formerly "Hype") or when the "VNets" option is activated - traffic for calls to the Russian Federation and abroad is free and does not consume the package in the tariff;
- On other tariff plans, when calling in Russia, the traffic is not charged and is not consumed, when calling when the subscriber is abroad, the traffic is paid, according to roaming rates for each country.
It is recommended to make calls via MTS Connect while abroad via Wi-Fi networks.
Eventually
Summarizing the considered information about calls via the Internet from MTS, it can be emphasized that the operator does not stand still, and tries to quickly pick up all modern trends in technology, and this is commendable. However, in a specific case, speaking about making calls via the Internet, neither VoLTE, nor Wi-Fi Calling, nor, moreover, MTS Connect, cannot be called full-fledged competitors such messengers as Viber, WhatsApp and Telegram. Especially when it comes to the need to make calls while staying outside Russia.
Therefore, before starting to use the new offers from MTS, I recommend that you carefully weigh the pros and cons in order to understand how rational such services are in your particular case.
Recently, mobile operators have begun to actively implement a new technology called Wi-Fi Calling (in some cases also called VoWiFi or VoWLAN). In their short explanations, mobile operators usually report that Wi-Fi Calling will allow you to make calls over a wireless Wi-Fi network without really explaining why it is needed and what it does for the end user. In this article we will try to explain in more detail the essence of this technology.
Wi-Fi Calling is a technology that allows any Wi-Fi network to be used as an alternative to the cellular operator's core network. Using Wi-Fi Calling, you can make and receive voice and video calls, as well as send and receive SMS messages, in any place where there is Wi-Fi with Internet access, even if there is no cellular operator coverage or very weak. Such calls and messages work in the same way as when using a regular cellular connection. The only difference is how the phone communicates with your mobile operator. During a regular call, the operator's base stations are used for this, and when using Wi-Fi Calling, communication is carried out via a wireless Wi-Fi network and the Internet.
In addition to being able to make calls from locations with poor signal strength, Wi-Fi Calling provides other benefits. For example, it allows you to save money, because such calls are usually paid at the subscriber's home tariff. But, this moment depends on the specific mobile operator and the tariff plan used.
It should be noted that Wi-Fi Calling does not require any additional applications. This is not just another Viber for which both subscribers must have an application installed. Wi-Fi Calling is a feature that is supported at the phone level and works completely transparent to the user. After turning it on, the phone will decide for itself how to communicate with the mobile operator, using base stations or using a wireless Wi-Fi network.
Wi-Fi Calling is also sometimes called VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) or VoWLAN (Voice over Wireless Local Area Network). This name has something in common with another similar technology -. VoLTE technology solves a similar problem, it provides voice calls over the LTE network, but its operation requires a network of base stations of the mobile operator, while Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi, VoWLAN) provides communication wherever there is Wi- Fi and Internet.
How Wi-Fi Calling works
In order for the Wi-Fi Calling technology to work, several conditions must be met. First, this technology must be supported by your mobile operator. Operators usually implement this technology in conjunction with VoLTE because the technologies are very similar. Secondly, Wi-Fi Calling must be supported by your phone. Nowadays, calls over the wireless network are mainly supported by flagship smartphones. Here is a list of models that can work with Wi-Fi Calling at the moment:
- Apple iPhone 5c, 5s, 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X
- Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL
- Samsung Galaxy S9, S9 +, S8, S8 +, S7, S7 edge, S6, S6 edge, S6 edge +, A3 (2017), A5 (2017), Note 8
- Nexus 5X, 6P
- Nokia 3, 5, 8
- Lumia 550, 650, 950, 950XL
- Sony Xperia XZ1, Xperia XZ1 Compact
- HTC 10, U11, U11 Life
- BlackBerry Priv, Dtek 50, Dtek 60, KEYone
- Huawei P10, P10 Lite, P10 Plus, P Smart
In addition, the Wi-Fi Calling function must be enabled in the smartphone settings. We will describe how this is done below. After enabling this feature, the phone starts to automatically switch between using Wi-Fi and base stations, depending on where the connection is better. In this case, the very moment of switching occurs almost imperceptibly for the user.
For example, if you are in an open space with good signal reception from a base station, then the base station of the mobile operator will be used for communication. And when you enter the room, the phone will automatically switch to Wi-Fi, since the quality of communication through the wireless network, in this case, will be much better. The fact that the smartphone has switched to using Wi-Fi Calling can be recognized by the Wi-Fi inscription, which will appear at the top of the screen.
How to enable Wi-Fi Calling
If you have an Android smartphone, then you need to open the "Phone" application, click on the button with three dots in the upper right corner of the screen and go to "Settings". Then you need to go to the "Calls" section and enable the "Calls over Wi-Fi" function there. Also, in some cases, the "Wi-Fi Calling" function can be enabled through the "Settings" application, in the section with the wireless network settings.
And on Samsung smartphones there is a special icon in the top curtain that allows you to enable and disable Wi-Fi Calling with one click.
If you have an iPhone, then to enable this function you need to open the "Settings" application and go to the "Phone" section. Here you need to enable the function "Calling over Wi-Fi"
After enabling Wi-Fi Calling, your phone will start using Wi-Fi Calling.
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 virtually 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, the first acquaintance with Wi-Fi calls 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 enable 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 I have Wi-Fi calls 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.
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 not be available for unsupported operators.
- We activate the slider.
After that, all calls will be made using the current Wi-Fi network.
