How to enable and use Wi-Fi calling on your Android or iPhone to make calls without cellular service

• You can use Wi-Fi calling on your Android or iPhone to make calls using Wi-Fi rather than your cellular network.
• Wi-Fi calling is useful in cell service dead zones or buildings with spotty service.
• Wi-Fi calling isn't automatically enabled on all phones — you'll have to make that change manually.

If you've struggled with spotty cell service in your office or apartment, there's a simple solution called "Wi-Fi calling."

Wi-Fi calling is exactly what it sounds like: Making calls and sending messages through your internet connection rather than your cell service. But first, you'll have to enable the feature on your iPhone or Android device.

While all major carriers including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer Wi-Fi calling, the cost to you depends on your plan. Wi-Fi calling isn't a sneaky method for saving money or minutes: The same rates and monthly limits apply.

Once you turn on Wi-Fi calling, you don't have to do anything special to enable it. It's automatic.

You can set up Wi-Fi calling in just a few easy steps.

How to enable Wi-Fi calling for iPhone

Wi-Fi calling is not automatically enabled on your iPhone, but once you change the settings, you'll make Wi-Fi calls when connected to the internet.

1. Open the Settings app on your device.

2. Tap "Cellular."

3. Scroll to "Wi-Fi Calling" under your carrier info.

4. Toggle on "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone."

5. Tap "Enable" in the pop-up menu.

6. A pop-up page will appear notifying you about 911 calling - tap "Continue." Update your emergency address, which lets emergency services know where your home is if you make a 911 call. If cellular service is available, your phone will bypass the Wi-Fi signal for your own safety.

7. You'll know it's working if there's a Wi-Fi signal next to your carrier name at the top of your screen.

How to enable Wi-Fi calling for Android

Your phone will bypass a poor cell signal for a Wi-Fi signal, but you can set your preference between either one. Since Android phones are variable, no one set of steps is going to apply to every phone. You can always just search for "Wi-Fi Calling" in your search bar to adjust the settings.

1. Open the Settings app on your device.

2. Tap "Networks & Internet" or "Connections," depending on your Android device.

3. Tap "Mobile network." Depending on your device, "Wi-Fi Calling" may be an option here, without the need to first go to "Mobile network."

4. Tap "Advanced."

5. Tap "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle it on.

6. Update your emergency address, which lets emergency services know where your home is if you make a 911 call. If cellular service is available, your phone will bypass the Wi-Fi signal for your own safety.

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