Have you ever wondered what WiFi calling is and how it can benefit you? With an increase in the number of remote workers worldwide, understanding WiFi calling is essential for maintaining high-quality communication with your remote teams.
You’ll be happy to know that both Apple and Android devices support WiFi calling. And the best part? They don’t require the help of your phone service provider either. The feature allows you to make calls indoors with a strong WiFi network coverage, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality using HD Voice over a cloud phone system.
Needless to say, WiFi calling offers a lot of benefits, but it also has its fair share of limitations. That makes it incredibly important to understand the nitty-gritty and assess both the advantages and the drawbacks.
If you’re still deciding whether or not to head down this route, we’ve listed down the main pros and cons of WiFi calling and other relevant information to help you make an informed decision. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it!
What is WiFi Calling?
Simply put, WiFi calling is the process of making and receiving calls using WiFi signals instead of relying on a cellular phone network. Developed by the WiFi Alliance and IEEE, this innovative development in telecommunications technology has become a popular choice for those who desire uninterrupted communication without being confined to their mobile provider’s coverage.
In terms of user experience, WiFi calling works similarly to a regular phone call. Simply ring a contact number as you normally would, and enjoy all of your device’s usual features, the likes of which include three-way calls and the speakerphone.
But wait, it gets better. Even if you’re not near a mobile network or have weak signal strength, you can still make calls using your WiFi hotspot or home broadband connection. Isn’t that a relief?
All in all, WiFi Calling is an economical and advantageous approach to make phone calls without using your mobile data, but whether or not it’s the best option for you is up for discussion.
What Are the Pros of WiFi Calling?
As businesses strive to remain competitive in a digitally connected world, WiFi calling offers an array of advantages that can bolster their communication strategy. Here are some of the major perks.
Reliable Connection Opportunities
One major advantage of WiFi calling is its ability to provide reliable connection opportunities when cellular signal strength is weak or unavailable. If you have a reliable internet connection, WiFi calling offers an alternative for placing and receiving calls without relying on traditional cell service.
No Extra Hardware Needed
Gone are the days when businesses needed clunky office phone systems to communicate with clients and colleagues. With WiFi calling, all you need is a PC, Mac, or mobile device connected to VoIP phone services like MonsterVoIP. This eliminates the need for outdated hardware while also streamlining your business’ communications process.
Battery Life Extension
A common issue faced by smartphone users is battery drain due to the constant search for cellular connections. With WiFi calling, your phone can potentially extend its battery life since it won’t be constantly hunting for network coverage.
Ease Beyond Phone Calls
- Messaging: Many VoIP platforms offer integrated messaging capabilities alongside voice calls so that teams can stay connected through multiple channels.
- Simplicity: Most modern smartphones support built-in WiFi call functionality, making it easy for employees and customers to use.
- Scalability: VoIP services can easily be scaled as your business grows, ensuring that you have the right level of communication support at all times.
Cost Savings
Last but not least, WiFi calling can provide significant cost savings for businesses. Depending on your particular phone plan, using cellular data for calls can be considerably more expensive. On the other hand, WiFi is generally cheaper and more accessible in many locations, thus saving you money while still allowing you to maintain high-quality communication with other teams and clients.
What Are the Cons of WiFi Calling?
While WiFi calling offers numerous benefits, it is essential to consider its drawbacks before fully relying on this technology. Here are some limitations to keep in mind.
Unpredictability in Public Spaces
At times, public WiFi networks can be unpredictable and may not be able to handle sudden increases in usage. Plus, you might lose coverage if you’re moving between different internet connections. Consider utilizing a WiFi hotspot in such scenarios.
Limited Availability
Unfortunately, WiFi coverage is not universally available as of now. Despite the widespread proliferation of public WiFi, some regions may still experience difficulty obtaining reliable connections. However, as technology advances and availability expands further, this drawback should become less significant. If the location you need to make calls from has the internet, then it can make calls over a VoIP system so, while there are some areas that don’t have the internet, the majority of places do.
Incompatibility with Some Devices
To use standard mobile carrier-based WiFi calling services, you need a compatible smartphone, which typically includes newer iPhone models or most Android devices. However, if you opt for a business phone service like Monster VoIP that uses VoIP technology, any computer or tablet connected to the internet can make and receive calls without compatibility issues.
Potential Data Usage Fees
If you’re new to WiFi calling features and unaware of your device’s settings while roaming outside your WiFi network range, it could inadvertently switch back to cellular data, resulting in unexpected charges on your bill. To avoid such scenarios, be sure to keep track of whether you’re connected to WiFi or using cellular data, and ensure that your device settings are configured to prevent automatic switching.
What Are the Differences Between VoIP and WiFi Calling?
The terms “WiFi calling” and “VoIP” are often used interchangeably, but they have some key differences. While both technologies allow users to make calls over the internet, their underlying mechanisms and user experiences can vary.
Understanding WiFi Calling
Available on most modern smartphones, WiFi calling is a feature that allows users to make voice calls using a WiFi network instead of their cellular service provider’s network. This can be particularly useful in areas with poor cellular coverage or when traveling internationally with roaming charges. To use WiFi calling, all you need is a compatible device and an active WiFi connection. That’s right! No additional software or setup is required.
Exploring VoIP Technology
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), on the other hand, refers to the broader technology that enables voice communication over IP networks such as the Internet. Unlike WiFi calling, which relies solely on your smartphone’s built-in capabilities, VoIP services typically require separate applications or platforms like Skype, Zoom, or MonsterVoIP’s cloud-based business phone system.
- User Experience: With WiFi calling enabled on your smartphone, making a call feels just like using traditional cellular service. All you need to do is dial a number from your contacts list or keypad. However, when using VoIP services through third-party apps/platforms, you’ll need to open those specific applications to make calls.
- Device Compatibility: WiFi calling is typically limited to smartphones, while VoIP services can be used on a wider range of devices like computers, tablets, and even dedicated IP phones.
- Feature Set: While both technologies allow for voice communication over the internet, VoIP services often come with additional features such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and integration with other business tools, thus making them more versatile than WiFi calling alone.
How to Enable WiFi Calling
If you’re looking to improve your call quality and stay connected even in areas with poor cellular reception, enabling WiFi calling on your smartphone is a great solution. iPhone and Android users, this is how you can effortlessly set up WiFi calling.
For iPhone Users
Enabling WiFi calling on an iPhone is quick and easy. Just follow these simple steps.
- Navigate to Settings > Phone > WiFi Calling.
- Toggle the switch next to “WiFi Calling on This iPhone” so that it turns green.
- Acknowledge any pop-ups related to data collection by your carrier.
Congratulations. You’ve successfully enabled WiFi calling on your iPhone. Now, your calls will automatically be routed over WiFi, thus eliminating the need for cellular service.
For Android Users
The process for setting up WiFi calling on an Android device may vary slightly depending on the specific model or manufacturer. However, here’s a general outline of how it can be done.
- Navigate to Settings > Networks & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > WiFi Calling. (You can also use the search tool to look up “WiFi Calling.”)
- Toggle the switch next to “WiFi Calling” to activate the feature.
And that’s it! You’ve now enabled WiFi calling on your Android phone. By leveraging a strong WiFi connection, you can route your calls over the internet instead of using cellular service.
WiFi Calling FAQs
Still have queries? Not a problem! Carefully look at the different FAQs below to determine whether or not you should use WiFi calling for your communication needs.
1) How can I make WiFi calls using MonsterVoIP?
To call using MonsterVoIP, simply connect your device to a strong WiFi network and dial the number as you normally would. Your call will be routed through the internet instead of traditional cellular networks.
2) Can I make emergency calls if needed?
Yes, most smartphones allow users to place emergency calls even when connected to WiFi. It is important to be precise about your location in such cases since the accuracy of the locations may not match that of cellular networks.
3) Can I register an address to my phone while I make WiFi calls?
You can typically register an address with your carrier or VoIP service provider for E911 services while making WiFi calls. This ensures that emergency responders have accurate location information in case of emergencies.
4) Which devices support WiFi calls?
- iPhones running iOS version 9 or later
- Newer Android smartphones from major manufacturers like Samsung, Google Pixel, LG etc., which support WiFi calling features
- Laptops and desktop computers equipped with microphones and speakers/headsets along with appropriate software applications (e.g., Skype)
5) Does WiFi calling require data?
No additional data usage occurs when using WiFi calling on a WiFi network. However, if your device switches to cellular data during the call due to weak or lost WiFi signals, standard data charges may apply.
6) Can I use WiFi to call internationally?
Yes, you can make international calls using WiFi calling and potentially save money compared to traditional carrier rates. It is essential to check with your service provider for specific details about their international calling rates when connected via WiFi.
7) Is WiFi calling secure?
In general, WiFi calling is considered secure as it uses encryption protocols like Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP). However, public WiFi networks may pose security risks, which is why we recommend connecting through secured private networks or VPNs while making calls.
8) Do WiFi calls drain or conserve battery?
WiFi calling can actually conserve battery life by reducing the need for the constant search for cellular signals. In general, VoIP requires less energy than calls made through cellular networks.
9) Can I leave this feature on all the time?
Feel free to enable or disable this feature according to your preferences and needs. Leaving it enabled ensures seamless connectivity in areas with poor cell reception but strong WiFi coverage. However, if security is a big priority for you, you can also turn off this feature when using public WiFi networks.
Ready to Try WiFi Calling?
If you’re ready to embrace the benefits of modern communication, it’s time to explore WiFi calling. This modern technology is a cost-effective method for companies to remain in contact with the team and streamline communication as a whole. If you’re ready to take your communication game up a notch, contact Monster VoIP today to learn more about how we can help you leverage technology solutions to enhance your business communications! Thanks to HD Voice technology and seamless integration with popular CRM apps, team collaboration will become more efficient than ever before.
