What Is Wi-Fi Calling? Everything You Need To Know

Wi-Fi calling is becoming as commonplace as relying on phone networks such as 4G/5G to make calls. It’s no surprise, given that the benefits you receive with Wi-Fi outperform that of mobiles for consumers and businesses.

The reliability of Wi-Fi promises users a generally stable signal, plus you can avoid international charges, as calling is usually free and won’t eat into your minutes.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about WiFi calling. We’ll also explain how it works and compare it with VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calling. Read on to determine which communication solution is best for your business in 2024.

How Wi-Fi Calling Works

Wi-Fi calling converts voice data into packets that are transmitted via the internet instead of radio waves.

Here is a simple step-by-step overview of the process:

1. You place a regular call from your smartphone (this can be a mobile or traditional landline number).

2. Your phone detects a Wi-Fi connection and transfers the call to the Wi-Fi network.

3. Voice data is transmitted between your phone, a router, and, finally, to your network via the internet.

4. The call connects (as normal) via your mobile network. It will seem like a regular call for the recipient.

5. When the call ends or a Wi-Fi connection is lost, your phone will switch back to the cellular network.

Wi-Fi functions as an intermediary for the call. The main difference most users notice is improved connectivity in areas where cellular access is usually limited.

How To Turn On Wi-Fi Calling

The process to enable Wi-Fi calling will differ between an iPhone user and an Android user. However, it only requires a few quick adjustments in your settings on both brands.

On iPhone:

1. Open Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Enable Wi-Fi Calling

On Android:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi Calling
2. Toggle on Wi-Fi Calling

As long as you have mobile service through a participating network, your device will automatically route calls over trusted Wi-Fi signals when available. No secondary app, account, or specialised equipment is needed.

Benefits of Wi-Fi Calling

There are several advantages Wi-Fi calling offers modern business users:

1. Cost Savings – Any calls placed over Wi-Fi don’t count against your monthly minutes allowance. This can really add up over time for businesses with a high call volume, like those working in sales or customer service.
2. Filling Cellular Coverage Gaps – Avoid constantly dropped calls in buildings, hotels, conference centres, and other areas with poor reception but have robust Wi-Fi networks.
3. Freedom and Flexibility – Not being tethered to cellular signals enhances mobility around offices, customer sites, and while travelling domestically or internationally.
4. Call Clarity – Wi-Fi data transmission often delivers higher-quality voice calls with less background noise or distortion.
5. Easy Integration – Maintaining just one phone number across cellular and IP networks simplifies communication. You won’t need any secondary apps or specialised hardware to get going.

Disadvantages of Wi-Fi Calling

Of course, Wi-Fi calling has some drawbacks and limitations as well:

1. Internet Dependence – A stable, high-speed internet connection is required for reliable functionality. Calling over public Wi-Fi networks can sometimes reduce call quality if too many people are using the network at once.
2. Device or Network Restrictions – Not all smartphones or mobile plans support Wi-Fi integration yet – especially older models. It’s important to confirm that your devices are compatible before opting to switch over to Wi-Fi calling.
3. Security Concerns – Public Wi-Fi hotspots are notoriously vulnerable to data theft by hackers. Everyone should be mindful, but you should be especially cautious if your business deals with sensitive client data when sharing private information over these networks.

Is VoIP Better Than Wi-Fi Calling?

While Wi-Fi calling and Voice Over IP (VoIP) systems may seem similar, but there are a few key differences:

Wi-Fi calling specifically refers to a service offered by mobile phone networks using your existing number. It allows a standard cell phone to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of via a traditional cellular network.

VoIP is a broader technology that enables voice communication over the Internet. It is not tied to a mobile phone network and can be used on various devices, including smartphones, computers, and VoIP-specific handsets.

Does Wi-Fi or VoIP better serve businesses?

The answer depends on the specific requirements you have for your business phone number.

For maximum mobility, on-the-go convenience, and to keep monthly mobile data costs down, Wi-Fi calling shines. It piggybacks off your smartphone’s native dialer so no new devices or numbers are needed.

However, the benefits of VoIP include advanced call routing, mass scalability, designated business numbers, detailed analytics, and a deep integration with software systems. This means a full-featured VoIP platform, like RingCentral or 8×8, offers more versatility.

For business purposes, the added features offered by VoIP systems mean that they can outperform simple Wi-Fi calling due to the efficiency that they bring to your everyday workflows.

As adoption grows exponentially due to its efficiency and versatility, VoIP offers a complete telephony solution, while Wi-Fi calling serves as a supplemental mobile service to maintain connectivity in areas with poor signal.