In today’s hyper-connected world, staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues is more important than ever. Mobile communication has come a long way, and one of the most advantageous features of modern smartphones is WiFi calling. This feature allows users to make and receive calls and send messages over a WiFi network rather than using their cellular network. This can be particularly useful in areas with poor cellular reception. If you own a Samsung S8 and want to leverage this feature, you’re in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up WiFi calling on your Samsung S8, discuss its benefits, and answer some common questions.
What is WiFi Calling?
WiFi calling is a feature that enables you to use a WiFi connection to make and receive phone calls, send text messages, and access other communication functionalities. This can be especially beneficial in situations where cellular coverage is weak. For the Samsung Galaxy S8, setting up WiFi calling is not only easy but also enhances your overall communication experience.
Why Use WiFi Calling?
The advantages of using WiFi calling are numerous. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider this feature:
- Enhanced Call Quality: WiFi calling can provide clearer audio quality compared to traditional cellular calls, especially in areas with weak signal strength.
- Cost Savings: Depending on your mobile plan, WiFi calling can reduce costs when making calls internationally or in remote areas.
Prerequisites for WiFi Calling on Samsung S8
Before diving into the setup process, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the following prerequisites:
Compatible Carrier
Not all carriers support WiFi calling. Verify that your mobile carrier has this feature available for the Samsung Galaxy S8. Most major carriers in the U.S. offer WiFi calling, but always check to avoid any inconvenience.
Software Update
Ensure that your Samsung S8 is running the latest software version. An updated operating system helps you avoid technical glitches and ensures compatibility with new features:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on Software Update
- Click on Download and Install to check for available updates
Setting Up WiFi Calling on Your Samsung S8
Now that you have confirmed that your carrier supports WiFi calling and your phone is updated, follow these steps to enable the feature:
Step 1: Access Settings Menu
- Open your Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on Connections.
Step 2: Enable WiFi Calling
- Within Connections, find the WiFi Calling option.
- Toggle the switch to turn it On. You may see a prompt notifying you about the service—click OK or Continue to proceed.
Step 3: Configure WiFi Calling Settings
After enabling WiFi calling, you can customize a few settings:
- Go to the WiFi Calling menu.
- Select your preferred setting for WiFi Calling preference. You can choose “WiFi preferred” or “Cellular preferred” based on your preferences.
WiFi Preferred vs. Cellular Preferred
- WiFi Preferred: Your phone will use WiFi for calls whenever it’s available.
- Cellular Preferred: Your phone will prioritize cellular networks for calls and fallback on WiFi only when the cellular signal is weak.
Step 4: Test Your WiFi Calling Setup
To ensure your setup works smoothly, make a test call:
- Connect your phone to a WiFi network.
- Dial a friend or family member.
- Verify that the call quality is satisfactory.
Managing WiFi Calling Settings
Once you have WiFi calling enabled, you might want to manage certain aspects of the feature for better control over your calling experience.
Voicemail and Call Forwarding
Ensure your voicemail and call forwarding options are set correctly to avoid missing any important calls or messages:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on Connections again
- Select more connection settings then Call forwarding
You can customize when calls should be forwarded—whether if you’re busy, if the line is unavailable, or when you do not want to be disturbed.
Data Usage Monitoring
While WiFi calling uses primarily WiFi for calls, it’s vital to monitor your data usage, especially if you have a limited data plan.
- Go to Settings
- Tap on Data Usage
- Select Mobile data usage to review the application usage and make changes if necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with WiFi Calling
Despite the straightforward setup process, some users may encounter issues while trying to utilize WiFi calling on their Samsung S8. Below are some common problems and solutions:
Signal Strength
If you experience dropped calls or poor audio quality, your WiFi signal may be weak:
- Ensure you’re connected to a reliable WiFi network. Try moving closer to your router or resetting it.
Software Glitches
If WiFi calling stopped working suddenly:
- Restart your phone. Sometimes, a quick reboot can clear temporary issues.
- Toggle WiFi calling off and back on again under the settings.
Carrier Restrictions
If you’re unable to use WiFi calling even after following the steps:
- Check with your carrier. Sometimes, your account may have restrictions or require additional activation.
Conclusion: Embrace the Convenience of WiFi Calling
WiFi calling is an invaluable tool, especially for those who often find themselves in low-signal areas. Setting it up on your Samsung S8 is a simple task that can significantly enhance your communication capabilities. With benefits such as improved call quality and potential cost savings, there’s little reason not to take advantage of this feature.
With a straightforward setup process and a few adjustments here and there, you’re ready to stay connected in the most efficient manner. Embrace the convenience of WiFi calling on your Samsung S8 and enjoy clear and reliable communication that spans geographical barriers! Now that you know how to set up and optimize this feature, you’ll always be just a call away.
What is WiFi Calling on my Samsung S8?
WiFi Calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive phone calls, as well as send and receive text messages, using a WiFi network instead of your mobile network. This is particularly useful in areas with weak cellular signals, enabling clearer calls and better connectivity. When WiFi Calling is enabled, your phone automatically switches to using a WiFi connection when the cellular signal is poor.
On your Samsung S8, WiFi Calling works seamlessly, providing you with the ability to stay connected without relying solely on the cellular network. It is especially beneficial when you are indoors or in remote locations where cellular service may be unreliable.
How do I enable WiFi Calling on my Samsung S8?
To enable WiFi Calling on your Samsung S8, start by opening the Phone app and tapping on the three dots in the upper right corner to access Settings. From there, look for the option labeled “WiFi Calling.” You may need to toggle the switch to turn it on. If prompted, agree to any terms and conditions provided by your carrier.
Additionally, ensure that your device is connected to a WiFi network. You can check your WiFi connection status by swiping down from the top of your screen. Once WiFi Calling is activated, your phone should automatically default to using WiFi for calls whenever you’re connected to a WiFi network.
Are there any fees associated with WiFi Calling?
Generally, most carriers do not charge additional fees for using WiFi Calling. Calls made over WiFi often count against your regular plan’s minutes and do not incur any extra costs. However, it is essential to check with your carrier directly to understand their specific policies regarding WiFi Calling, as this can vary by provider and plan.
While WiFi calls typically do not cost extra, international calls may still incur usage fees based on your plan. Therefore, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your carrier’s international rates to avoid any surprises while using WiFi Calling abroad.
Will using WiFi Calling affect my data usage?
WiFi Calling itself does not consume your mobile data since it operates over a WiFi network. However, if you’re on a limited data plan and use other internet-based applications or services simultaneously while on a WiFi call, those services will still use your data. Therefore, you can safely use WiFi Calling without worrying about your data allowance unless you are using additional apps or streaming services concurrently.
If you’re making calls through WiFi, ensure you have a stable WiFi connection to avoid disruptions. Since calls are transmitted over the internet instead of your cellular network, a strong WiFi signal is essential for clear, uninterrupted conversations without draining your mobile data.
What should I do if WiFi Calling is not working on my Samsung S8?
If you’re experiencing issues with WiFi Calling on your Samsung S8, the first step is to ensure that WiFi Calling is enabled in your settings. You can do this by navigating to the Phone app, accessing Settings, and checking the WiFi Calling option. If it’s enabled but still not functioning, try turning it off and then back on again.
Another troubleshooting step is to check your WiFi connection. Make sure you’re connected to a stable WiFi network with a strong signal. You might also consider restarting your device or your WiFi router. If problems persist, contacting your carrier’s customer support may provide further assistance, as they can help diagnose any service-related issues.
Can I use WiFi Calling internationally?
Yes, you can use WiFi Calling internationally, provided you have a working internet connection. This feature allows you to make local or international calls as if you were still in your home country. In fact, WiFi Calling can be an excellent solution when traveling, especially in areas with spotty cellular service.
While using WiFi Calling abroad can save you money on international calling rates, be aware that your carrier may still apply standard international call rates if you make calls to international numbers. Always check with your carrier for any specific terms and conditions regarding WiFi Calling while traveling to avoid unexpected charges.
Is my privacy protected when using WiFi Calling?
When using WiFi Calling, your calls are typically encrypted, similar to regular cell calls. This means that your conversations are protected during transmission, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept them. However, the level of security can depend on your carrier and the specifics of the WiFi network you’re using.
To enhance your privacy while using WiFi Calling, it’s advisable to connect to secure, trusted WiFi networks rather than public networks. Public WiFi can be riskier, as they are often less secure, and using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide an additional layer of protection for your data and calls.