In recent times, the number of users who communicate through Wi-Fi calls. To understand how they work and how to use them, it is important to first understand how traditional calls work. When we make a traditional voice call on the phone, what we do is use the mobile network that weaves the mobile phone masts.
In case there is no coverage, it is possible to make voice calls from the Internet connection via WiFi. It is a technology called VoWiFi and allows WiFi calls on certain operators that work to make communications to both mobile and landline phones. In this article we explore how they arise, what features they have and how to get the most out of WiFi calls.
The differences between WiFi calls and WhatsApp or Telegram calls
VoWiFi is a type of coverage and call service different from calls from instant messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram. Not all mobile phone operators are compatible, and there are differences in performance and operation. Therefore, we explore how this technology works and different ways to take advantage of it to always be connected.
What is a VoWiFi call
WiFi calls from telephone operators use the technology called Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi). They use the Internet connection via WiFi to transmit the voice and keep you in touch when the conventional network does not work. VoWiFi works independently of fiber or ADSL technologies, allowing communication to be established directly with the WiFi connection whatever it may be.
The main difference is that VoLTE calls use 4G networks and do not consume megabytes, while VoIP calls use any Internet access point. This last type of calls is the one used by WhatsApp or Telegram. VoWiFi calls do not consume megabytes of the rate, like VoLTE, and allow you to connect to fixed or mobile devices without the need for them to use WiFi. It is the most indicated case when we do not have good mobile coverage but we know that the other user does.
The call is technically made over WiFi but the service applies the same restrictions as our paid service. So, there are some limitations that can appear:
- We called using our phone number.
- They are charged at the same price as a normal call.
- Emergency calls can be made.
- Special rate numbers and international calls are charged as normal.
- Each operator determines or not the use of roaming.
In Spanish territory, not all telephone operators have support for WiFi calls. The list will let you know if you are among those who can make use of this service if necessary.
Telephone operators in Spain with WiFi call support
The operators that already offer the service are: Orange, Movistar, O2 and Amena. At the moment, Vodafone and Grupo MásMóvil do not have this support, at least for now. In any case, each operator has its own peculiarities when it comes to providing the service. .
Orange
The VoWiFi service is already included in the residential use contracts. For business customers, the system is enabled for freelancers and companies with less than five lines. Eco card users do not have the service and neither do prepaid customers. On the other hand, Orange does not allow the use of VoWiFi outside Spanish territory.
Movistar
In the case of Movistar, WiFI calls are included in the lines at no additional cost. Any contract customer can make these calls, but prepaid customers are excluded.
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In the case of the operator Amena, the conditions of use for WiFi calls are the same as Orange. The service is included free of charge in the rates and does not work outside of Spanish territory.
o2
Another telephone operator that has the WiFi calling service included at no additional cost. Regarding roaming, the same rules apply as in traditional calls, with the cost depending on the country to which the number we are calling belongs to.
Are all phones compatible with VoWiFi?
In case your mobile phone operator includes VoWiFi support, you already meet the first requirement to make WiFi calls. However, we must also confirm that our mobile has the WiFi Calls function activated.
This is done from Settings – Connections – WiFi calls on phones with the Android operating system. The route may have some change in manufacturers with some layer of customization. But it should show up as an option. Otherwise, your phone may not yet have an operating system that supports this technology.
Try Wi-Fi Calling to start trying a different way to stay in touch. Ideal for those moments when traditional telephony has no signal or works very weakly, but we have access to a WiFi connection.