Wi-Fi calling can help you make calls without worrying about bad cellular service. While the best encrypted messaging apps support Wi-Fi calls, your recipient must have the same app. Wi-Fi calling lets you call any number, even if they're only connected to a cellular network.
While not every carrier and Android phone support Wi-Fi calling, the major U.S. carriers support it, and most modern Android phones, too, including the best budget phones. We show you how to check if Wi-Fi calling is supported and how to activate it on any supported Android phone.
What carriers support Wi-Fi calling?
All major U.S. carriers support Wi-Fi calling. Outside the major carriers and their postpaid plans, support for Wi-Fi calling is inconsistent. If you're on a cheaper prepaid plan, it's worth checking your carrier's support pages to learn more about Wi-Fi calling. While your carrier may support Wi-Fi calling, the feature may not work outside the U.S. or on phones not certified on your network.
Even if your device and carrier support Wi-Fi calling, it may not work when traveling outside your carrier's network.
How to enable Wi-Fi calling
For this guide, we use a Google Pixel 6 with Android 13. But these steps should be identical on any Android phone with Android 13. If you can't find the relevant menu, search for "Wi-Fi calling" in your Settings app's search bar.
You must set up an address on your line if you wish to use Wi-Fi calling in the U.S., as carriers must keep an address on file for 911 emergency response calls.
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot button in the upper-right corner of your screen.
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Tap Settings.
- Tap Calls.
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Tap Wi-Fi calling.
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Turn on Use Wi-Fi calling.
When Wi-Fi calling is enabled, the Call settings menu shows how your call will be made under the Wi-Fi calling heading.
How to make a Wi-Fi call
Wi-Fi calls are handled like regular calls, so you won't need to do anything when making one. Your phone compares the strength of your Wi-Fi and cellular networks and automatically routes your call through the strongest one.
Do Wi-Fi calls cost more?
There are no additional charges for making Wi-Fi calls, but if you're not on a plan with unlimited calls, Wi-Fi calls are counted against your regular calling limits. It isn't a way to get around calling limits. However, Wi-Fi calls can save you money when traveling.
U.S. carriers treat all Wi-Fi calls as originating from the U.S. This means that even if your plan doesn't include international calls, you can make calls to the U.S. from other countries at no additional charge. However, you will be charged more if you call an international number.
Make calls from more locations
Wi-Fi calling can significantly improve your mobile connectivity. Even in areas that usually receive good reception, Wi-Fi calling can help when things go wrong. However, if you consistently have connectivity issues, you may wish to consider the benefits of a different carrier.