AT&T has Wi-Fi calling, which is specifically designed for people using the unlocked phone. Also, Android and iPhone devices have an inbuilt voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) that enables their use for calls during conference meetings. It also provides clear and quality sounds during such meetings.  You may wonder, why is it that Wi-Fi calling is not supported by some unlocked phones and how does AT&T support Wi-Fi calls on unlocked phones? The following sub-topics will clarify that.

Reasons for some unlocked phones do not support the Wi-Fi calling system

Due to the unlocked phone’s default factory settingsThe Wi-Fi calling may not be supported by the operating system, such as the Android operating system.  

Ways AT&T supports Wi-Fi calling on unlocked phones

AT&T provides its customers with features that enable them to use Wi-Fi calling on their unlocked phones. This is possible when you purchase family phone packages from the company.

How to avail of Wi-fi calling by AT&T?

The following are what you should do to enjoy Wi-fi calling by AT&T services.

Easily set up Wi-fi calling with your AT&T mobile line.  It only requires a smart mobile device and a Wi-fi network.  Then, you need to enable Wi-fi calling on your devices, which starts working immediately.  The AT&T Wi-Fi calling allows you to call and receive messages.  

Cost of Wi-fi calling plans/billings by AT&T

AT&T charges or bills are dependent on the line you call in the United States. The following is what you need to know about the billings of AT&T Wi-Fi calling.

Local calls in the United States are not charged using AT&T Wi-Fi calling. Calling premium lines (for example, 411) are charged at standard premium prices.  International calls are charged based on the distance from the US, using an international roaming package.

How does Wi-Fi Calling work?

Enabling Wi-fi calling on your device requires the use of a voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) system. The system allows your phone lines to easily connect to the internet. Wi-Fi calling works well in mobile phone applications (such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger), which uses a voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) system. 

Charges for Wi-Fi calling

Using Wi-Fi calling does not incur any extra charges except the one charged from your monthly data/voice plans, just the same way calls made from cellular network connections are charged from the monthly plans. This means that the data is utilized from your subscribed internet plans. With a call from apps like WhatsApp, Facebook messenger e.t.c it is much easier to make international calls without spending roaming costs.

Importance of Wi-Fi Calling

As earlier stated, Wi-Fi calling has several benefits, especially for those working remotely. The benefits include: 

With access to a Wi-Fi connection, you can call and text from any part of the world.  Secondly, with poor internet coverage Wi-Fi calling can improve voice call quality.  International calls can be made using a Wi-Fi calling system without incurring extra charges (i. e. no international calling rate) like the conventional cellular network calls.  There are no additional charges involved while using this system for everything is being charged from the existing voice and monthly internet plans without any add-on services. With Wi-Fi calling, you do not need any separate applications because it is a built-in feature.

Technical challenges of Wi-Fi calling using AT&T

The connectivity of Wi-Fi calling lies in the strength of the AT&T Wi-Fi network. This is usually experienced in a crowded environment.  Not every phone supports Wi-Fi calling. For example, Samsung phone users can not benefit from this advancement in technology because they are yet to pay for certification. However, there are chances that Wi-Fi calling may be possible on unlocked Samsung phones and Verizon using apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook messenger e. t. c AT&T Wi-Fi calling networks in some countries have restrictions for calling international lines.  

Bottom Line

In recent times, improvements in technologies have been noted, in the use of Wi-Fi calling system services. The services include calling and texting from the comfort of your home to any location of your choice, which would not have been possible for ordinary calls. AT&T provides its customers with features that enable them to use Wi-Fi calling on their unlocked phones, through their family bundle package. Enabling Wi-fi calling on your device requires the use of a voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) system, which will allow you to use mobile phone applications (such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger) for such calls.

Can a Wi-Fi call be made using unlocked phones through AT&T?

Yes, it can. Once you have a stable internet connection. However, this feature is not allowed on Samsung phones because of certification issues but this doesn’t rule out the tendency of Wi-Fi calling on Verizon and Samsung phones.

How can I use Wi-Fi on my unlocked Android phone?

Wi-Fi Calling can be enabled on any Android Phone through this simple procedure; Firstly, tap on the notification shade and then press-hold the Wi-Fi icon to pop out the Wi-Fi settings. Secondly, scroll towards the bottom, select Wi-Fi Preferences then Advance setting. Choose Wi-Fi Calling and flip to switch it on.