Is WiFi Calling Free or Costs Money?

If you are wondering how Wi-Fi calling works exactly, we have got you covered. For Wi-Fi calling, all you need is a wi-fi connection, a smartphone with a wi-fi calling feature, and a service provider offering it.
 

If you are at a place with weak or no signal but have a wi-fi connection, you can call your phone using wi-fi. You are connected to your service provider’s network over wi-fi, verifying your account and phone number. The call is then set up using the Internet VoIP.
 

Afterwards, your voice is converted into small data packets over the Wi-Fi connection to your carrier’s server, and the call is routed to the receiver. In case you move out of the wi-fi range during the call, it switches the call cellular network only if one is available.
 

The connection is closed when the call ends and resources are released. Therefore, Wi-Fi combined with cellular networks improves your call quality and does not let a call drop.

Wi-Fi calling uses a Wi-Fi network to make and receive calls, while traditional cellular calls rely on a mobile network. The table below better shows how Wi-Fi calling varies from traditional cellular calls.
 

Wifi calling costs no money as it is taken from your monthly plans. It is an alternative solution to poor cellular service. People living in an area with poor signal can easily rely on wi-fi calling and have a backup if their network goes down for an extended period.
 

Though wi-fi calling is not cost-free, it is cost-effective, and its potential costs differ based on several factors. Below are the factors influencing your calling costs, including carrier policies and whether you are making domestic or international costs. 
 

Most carriers' plans commonly cover domestic calls using Wi-Fi at no additional cost. With no unlimited plan, some service providers count domestic wi-fi calls against your regular minute payment and charge you for them.

Compared to traditional cellular networks, international calls over Wi-Fi are more cost-effective. Charges for international Wi-Fi calls also change depending on your carrier and specific plan.
 

While some providers offer packages or add-ons for affordable international Wifi calling rates, these calls might still charge, even if made over Wifi, depending on the service provider’s policy.

Each carrier charges a different price for the plan and has its policies about Wi-Fi calling, directly impacting Wi-Fi calling potential cost.
 

Carriers adding unlimited Wi-Fi calling to their unlimited talk plans make Wi-Fi calling free. However, for plans with a limited number of minutes, Wi-Fi calling counts towards your minute payment.
 

Numerous carriers offer international calling options, reducing Wifi calling prices in other countries. When you are overseas, some still claim a charge for Wi-Fi calls, especially for non-local number calls.
 

Moreover, there are also a few carriers that add Wi-Fi calling as a part of upscale plans, possibly reducing costs. For international or premium calls, they might even charge you a hidden or additional amount.
 

Therefore, you can determine if Wi-Fi calling is worth your cost and time based on your carrier plans.

Wi-Fi calling offers a cost-effective solution for making calls in areas with poor cellular reception. While domestic calls are typically free and included in your monthly voice plan, international calls may incur charges based on your carrier’s policies. Each carrier has its own set of rules and fees, so review your plan details to understand the potential costs fully.
 

For an even more affordable and versatile communication option, you can consider VoIP calling. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) offers lower rates for both domestic and international calls.