WiFi calling: how to turn it on and make calls over WiFi

Key takeaways

• WiFi calling lets you make and receive normal phone calls over a WiFi connection instead of the mobile network, which helps when your signal is weak or missing indoors.
• WiFi calling on SMARTY is included with all plans and billed like standard calls and texts, so there’s no extra cost. Premium-rate numbers and international calls are the exceptions.
• To make calls over WiFi, switch on WiFi calling in your phone's settings, connect to WiFi, and dial as normal. WiFi calling needs a compatible phone.

 

---

One bar in the kitchen, nothing in the back bedroom, and WiFi that works perfectly. WiFi calling lets that WiFi handle your calls instead. Here's what it is, how to switch it on, and how to check it’s working.

What is WiFi calling?

WiFi calling (also called Wi-Fi calling) lets you make and receive voice calls over WiFi instead of the mobile network. You use your usual number and phone app. WiFi calling is built into most phones, so you don't need to download anything.

How does WiFi calling work?

Your phone sends the call over WiFi rather than the mobile network. You dial and talk as normal. Call quality depends on your WiFi, so a patchy connection can lead to a patchy call. What happens next depends on where you are:

Where you are	What happens to your call
At home, or anywhere with WiFi	Your call goes over WiFi when WiFi calling is available.
You leave WiFi range but still have mobile signal	If your phone and network support it, the call may continue over the mobile network. Otherwise, it may cut off.
No WiFi and no mobile signal	The call won't connect.

Is WiFi calling free?

Yes. WiFi calling on SMARTY costs nothing extra: calls count towards your unlimited calls and texts. Premium-rate numbers and international calls are the exceptions.

How to turn on WiFi calling

First, check that your phone supports WiFi calling. Our list of compatible devices shows the phones we've tested. A phone not on the list may still work, but we can't guarantee it. Then make sure your phone's software is up to date.

Menus vary by phone make and software version, so yours may look slightly different.

iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Mobile Service (or Mobile Data).
3. Tap WiFi Calling and switch it on.

Samsung (Android)

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Connections.
3. Tap WiFi Calling and switch it on.

Google Pixel and similar Android phones

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Tap SIMs (or Mobile Network).
4. Tap WiFi Calling and switch it on.

How to make phone calls over WiFi

Once WiFi calling is enabled and you're connected to WiFi, make calls as you always do. Open the Phone app, select a contact or dial a number, then press call. There’s no separate app or number to remember.

To check WiFi calling is working:

1. Check that WiFi is switched on and connected.
2. Look for a WiFi calling label or icon at the top of your screen, usually near the network name. The exact wording depends on your phone.

Can I use WiFi calling abroad?

Whether WiFi calling works abroad depends on your network provider. Check with your provider before travelling. If you keep costs down, using a messaging app such as WhatsApp or Messenger over WiFi may be a better option.

Can I call 999 with WiFi calling?

Calls to 999 should work over WiFi calling, but your phone may not be able to share your exact location. If you call 999, tell the operator where you are.

WiFi calling on SMARTY

With SMARTY, WiFi calling is included with every plan, so there's nothing to add and no extra to pay. If a patchy signal at home brought you here, take a look at our one-month rolling SIM-only plans. And if your phone supports eSIM, you can get started without waiting for a SIM in the post.

FAQs

1. Should I leave WiFi calling on or off?

Leaving WiFi calling on is fine for most people in the UK, because the phone can use WiFi whenever the mobile signal is weak. Switching WiFi calling off only makes sense if you'd prefer your phone to always use the mobile network.

2. Does WiFi calling use my mobile data?

WiFi calling runs over your WiFi connection, so it shouldn't use your mobile data allowance. A call uses a small amount of WiFi data, which only matters if your WiFi has a data limit.

3. Does the person I'm calling need WiFi calling too?

No. The person you're calling doesn't need WiFi calling switched on to receive your call.