In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying connected is paramount. With the Samsung S20, you have a versatile device that allows you to utilize various features to enhance your communication experience. One of the most practical features available is WiFi calling. This functionality not only ensures that you enjoy uninterrupted calls even in areas with weak cellular signals but also saves you money on your monthly phone bill. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the steps required to turn on WiFi calling on your Samsung S20, explore the benefits of using this feature, and address common concerns users may encounter.
Understanding WiFi Calling
Before diving into the setup process, it’s essential to understand what WiFi calling is and why it’s beneficial.
What is WiFi Calling?
WiFi calling refers to the ability to make and receive phone calls over a WiFi network instead of relying solely on your mobile network. This can be particularly advantageous in areas where the cellular network coverage is poor, such as basements, rural areas, or densely populated urban environments.
Benefits of WiFi Calling
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Improved Call Quality: WiFi connections typically offer more stable and clearer audio quality compared to traditional cellular networks, especially in areas with weak signals.
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Cost Savings: If you have a limited mobile plan, using WiFi calling can help you avoid unnecessary charges for minutes. This is especially useful for long-distance and international calls.
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Seamless Connection: You can make and receive calls even when your mobile signal is weak, provided you have a strong WiFi connection.
How to Enable WiFi Calling on Samsung S20
Now that you understand what WiFi calling is and its benefits, let’s walk through the steps to enable this feature on your Samsung S20.
Preliminary Steps
Before you can turn on WiFi calling, ensure the following:
- Your Samsung S20 is updated to the latest software version.
- You have a WiFi connection that is stable.
- Your carrier supports WiFi calling (most major carriers do).
Step-by-Step Guide to Activate WiFi Calling
Follow these steps to easily enable WiFi calling on your Samsung S20:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Unlock your Samsung S20 device and locate the Settings app, which is represented by a gear icon. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 2: Navigate to Connections
Inside the settings menu, scroll down until you find the Connections option and tap on it. This section covers all connectivity features, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile networks.
Step 3: Select WiFi Calling
Within the Connections settings, you will see an option labeled WiFi Calling. Tap on it to access the WiFi calling settings.
Step 4: Turn on WiFi Calling
You will find a toggle switch next to the WiFi calling option. Switch it to the right to enable this feature. Once activated, you may see an on-screen prompt informing you that your device might share your phone number and call usage data with your carrier.
Step 5: Configure Additional Settings (Optional)
Depending on your preferences and your carrier, you might see additional options such as the ability to set WiFi calling as your preferred method for placing calls or managing emergency call location settings. Customize these options according to your needs.
Verifying WiFi Calling Activation
Now that you’ve activated WiFi calling, it’s essential to verify that it’s working correctly.
Checking Status
Once WiFi calling is enabled, you should see a WiFi calling icon (usually represented as “WiFi” or a small phone symbol with “WiFi”) in the notification bar at the top of your screen.
Making a Test Call
To ensure everything is functioning properly, make a test call. Switch your WiFi off and then attempt to call another phone number. If the call connects and you’re still able to converse clearly, your WiFi calling is successfully operational.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with WiFi Calling
While WiFi calling is designed to be a seamless experience, users may occasionally encounter issues. Below are common problems and their respective solutions.
1. WiFi calling not showing in settings
If you don’t see the WiFi calling option in your settings, it may be due to:
- Your carrier not supporting WiFi calling.
- Your phone software being outdated. Check for any available updates in the Software Update section under Settings > About Phone.
2. Poor call quality
If you experience poor audio quality while using WiFi calling:
- Ensure that your WiFi connection is stable and strong. A weak WiFi signal can degrade call quality.
- Restart your router.
- Move closer to your WiFi router for better connectivity.
3. Calls dropping or failing
If your calls are dropping or failing to connect, try the following solutions:
- Make sure your phone is not in Airplane mode.
- Reboot your Samsung S20 to refresh the network settings.
- Disable and re-enable WiFi calling in settings.
Other Considerations for WiFi Calling
While WiFi calling is a great feature, here are some additional points to consider:
Security Concerns
When using WiFi calling, your voice calls are transmitted over the internet. This can raise privacy concerns, especially on unsecured public WiFi networks. If you plan on using WiFi calling in public places, consider using a reliable VPN service to encrypt your data.
Emergency Calls
Keep in mind that emergency calls (like 911) may behave differently when using WiFi calling. Depending on your carrier’s policies, your location may not be accurately transmitted during an emergency call made via WiFi calling. It is advisable to communicate your address and location to emergency responders clearly.
International Usage
If you’re traveling abroad and want to use WiFi calling, check with your carrier regarding international charges and if your plan covers international WiFi calls. Some carriers may require you to enable a specific international plan.
Conclusion
Now that you have a thorough understanding of how to turn on WiFi calling on your Samsung S20, you can enjoy seamless communication, even in the most challenging environments. Whether it’s for enhancing call quality, saving money, or ensuring connectivity in low-signal areas, WiFi calling is a feature that can significantly elevate your experience.
By following the outlined steps and troubleshooting tips provided in this guide, you can confidently take full advantage of this fantastic feature on your Samsung S20. Embrace the power of WiFi calling today, and make every conversation a crystal-clear experience!
What is WiFi Calling on Samsung S20?
WiFi Calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive phone calls using your WiFi connection instead of your cellular network. This is especially useful in areas with poor cellular reception. With WiFi Calling enabled on your Samsung S20, you can stay connected to friends and family without worrying about dropped calls or weak signals.
Using WiFi Calling can also save you from incurring extra charges for international calls, as it uses your internet connection. It’s a seamless way to enhance your communication capabilities by leveraging WiFi networks available at home or in public spaces, making it an essential feature for many users.
How do I turn on WiFi Calling on my Samsung S20?
To enable WiFi Calling on your Samsung S20, start by opening the “Settings” app from your home screen or app drawer. Scroll down and tap on “Connections.” Within the Connections menu, you will find an option labeled “WiFi Calling.” Simply toggle the switch to the “On” position.
Once the feature is enabled, you might need to follow a few prompts to complete the setup. This could include confirming that you want to use your WiFi network for calls and possibly entering an emergency address or other pertinent information for emergency services.
Will WiFi Calling work with any WiFi network?
Yes, WiFi Calling can generally work with any WiFi network that offers a stable internet connection. This includes home networks, public WiFi hubs, and more. However, it’s essential to ensure that the network provides sufficient bandwidth to support voice calls. A slow or unstable connection can lead to poor call quality or dropped calls.
Keep in mind that while most carriers support WiFi Calling, you should check with your specific mobile carrier to confirm compatibility. Some networks may have restrictions or specific requirements regarding the use of this feature on third-party networks.
Can I use WiFi Calling internationally with my Samsung S20?
Yes, you can use WiFi Calling internationally as long as you have a stable WiFi connection and your carrier supports this feature. When connected to a WiFi network, your calls will be routed through that connection rather than incurring international roaming charges. This can save you significantly on call costs compared to traditional international dialing methods.
However, it’s wise to check with your mobile carrier regarding any specific rules about using WiFi Calling when abroad, as some carriers might have different policies or service limitations that could affect your experience.
Will I be charged for WiFi Calls on my Samsung S20?
Typically, calls made via WiFi Calling are billed the same as regular calls, meaning they will count against your monthly calling plan. However, if you are using WiFi Calling to reach someone internationally, you may be subject to international rates set by your carrier. It’s essential to clarify with your mobile service provider about any charges that may apply.
Additionally, if you’re using WiFi Calling to make calls to numbers that are toll-free or premium, the same billing rules would apply. Always check your provider’s policies to avoid unexpected charges when utilizing WiFi Calling on your Samsung S20.
What do I do if WiFi Calling is not working on my Samsung S20?
If WiFi Calling is not functioning on your Samsung S20, first ensure that the feature is enabled in the settings. Go to “Settings,” select “Connections,” and then check the “WiFi Calling” option. If it’s already turned on, you might want to turn it off and back on again to reset the feature.
Next, verify that your device is connected to a working WiFi network. Poor connectivity may affect the ability to make or receive calls. If problems persist, restarting your device or contacting your mobile carrier for further assistance may be necessary to diagnose any account or service-related issues.
Do I need a special plan to use WiFi Calling on my Samsung S20?
Generally, you do not need a special plan to use WiFi Calling on your Samsung S20, as it is usually included in standard voice plans offered by most carriers. However, there may be exceptions depending on your mobile provider, so it’s a good idea to confirm with them if any additional requirements or settings need to be in place.
If your mobile carrier has specific plans or features required to enable WiFi Calling, they will provide detailed instructions on how to proceed. Be sure to inquire about any additional costs that may arise from using WiFi Calling, particularly if you frequently make international calls.