Wi-Fi Calling and Wi-Fi Texting Guide 2025
Staying connected is essential, especially for travelers. Wi-Fi Calling and Wi-Fi Texting allow you to make calls and send texts over a Wi-Fi connection, providing an alternative to traditional cellular services. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for both Android and iOS users, explains how these features work, highlights the benefits for travelers, and provides information on compatible devices.
Table of Contents
Enabling Wi-Fi Calling and Texting: Android vs. iOS
The steps to enable Wi-Fi Calling and Texting differ slightly between Android and iOS devices. The table below outlines the process for each platform:
| Step | Android Devices | iOS Devices |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open the Settings app. | Open the Settings app. |
| 2 | Select Connections or Network & Internet. | Scroll down (go to Apps) and tap Phone. |
| 3 | Tap Wi-Fi Calling. | Tap Wi-Fi Calling. |
| 4 | Toggle Wi-Fi Calling to On. | Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to On. |
| 5 | To enable Wi-Fi Texting, open the Messages app and ensure your messages are sent over Wi-Fi. | To enable Wi-Fi Texting, go to Settings > Messages and enable iMessage. |
| 6 | To verify functionality, look for the Wi-Fi Calling dial sign when selection the phone to make a call (see photo) | To verify functionality, disable cellular data and attempt to make a call or send a text over Wi-Fi. |
Note: The exact steps may vary depending on your device model and carrier.
How Wi-Fi Calling and Texting Work
Wi-Fi Calling and Texting utilize Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to route voice calls and text messages over an internet connection. When enabled, your device connects to a Wi-Fi network to place calls and send texts, seamlessly switching between Wi-Fi and cellular networks to maintain communication quality. This integration allows users to use their native phone app without the need for third-party applications.
Benefits for Travelers
For travelers, Wi-Fi Calling and Texting offer several advantages over traditional cellular services:
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Cost Savings: Making calls and sending texts over Wi-Fi can help avoid international roaming charges, as many carriers treat Wi-Fi communications as domestic usage.
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Improved Coverage: In areas with limited or no cellular coverage, such as remote locations or underground facilities, Wi-Fi Calling and Texting ensure you remain connected as long as a Wi-Fi network is available.
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Seamless Communication: There's no need to install additional apps; Wi-Fi Calling and Texting integrate with your phone's existing dialer and messaging apps.
Enhancing Connectivity with eSIM and Portable Wi-Fi Solutions
To maximize the benefits of Wi-Fi Calling and Texting while traveling, consider the following solutions:
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eSIM Technology: An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. This is particularly useful for travelers, as it enables easy switching between carriers and plans without the need to swap physical SIM cards. Services like WiFicandy offer eSIMs with global coverage, allowing you to stay connected wherever you go. You can use the eSIM as mobile data for wifi connectivity which enables you to use Wi-Fi calling and texting.
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Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots: Portable WiFi devices provide secure, reliable internet access on the go. These devices can connect multiple gadgets simultaneously, making them ideal for group travel or multi-device connectivity. WiFicandy offers portable hotspots with unlimited data, in up to 50 destinations ensuring you have internet access wherever you travel. Using WiFicandy's portable wifi hotspot you can easily make phone calls or send texts over the wifi connection.
Devices Supporting Wi-Fi Calling and Texting
Most modern smartphones support Wi-Fi Calling and Texting. Below is a list of popular devices compatible with these features:
Android Devices:
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Samsung Galaxy S series (S6 and newer)
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Google Pixel series
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OnePlus devices (OnePlus 3 and newer)
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LG G series
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Motorola Moto series
iOS Devices:
- iPhone 5c and newer
Note: Device compatibility may vary based on the carrier and region. It's advisable to check with your carrier to confirm if your specific device supports Wi-Fi Calling and Texting.
By enabling Wi-Fi Calling and Texting, and utilizing eSIMs or portable Wi-Fi solutions, you can enhance communication quality, reduce costs, and ensure reliable connectivity, especially while traveling.