WiFi calling lets you make and receive calls using a wireless internet connection instead of relying on your mobile network. It’s a game-changer if you’re stuck in a building with poor cell signal, live in a rural area, or simply want more reliable calls when loadshedding knocks out local cell towers.
At its core, WiFi calling uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to transmit your voice as data over the internet. Unlike standard VoIP apps (like WhatsApp or Zoom), WiFi calling works natively through your phone’s dialer—no need to open another app or dial differently.
Why WiFi Calling Is Worth Enabling
Better call quality in low-signal areas
If your cell signal disappears indoors or in rural zones, WiFi calling fills the gap by routing your calls through your home, office, or public WiFi network.Loadshedding-proof (almost)
When loadshedding causes cellular towers to reduce capacity, your LTE signal can drop out. If you have fibre or a backup-powered router, WiFi calling keeps you connected even during blackouts.No extra charges or data usage
WiFi calls typically don’t use your mobile airtime or data—though it’s best to double-check with your provider. Calls behave exactly like regular cellular calls, just over WiFi.Improved battery life
Your phone uses less power when it’s not constantly hunting for a stable cell signal. On WiFi, your device can idle more efficiently.
What You Need to Know About the Limitations
While WiFi calling is convenient, it’s not flawless. Here are some potential pitfalls:
Call quality depends on your internet
Weak or congested WiFi will lead to jittery, delayed, or dropped calls. Fibre offers the best experience; mobile routers (LTE/5G) can work, but may struggle during loadshedding or when signal is weak.Not all devices or networks support it
Most modern Android and iOS phones support WiFi calling, but you’ll need to check if your carrier offers it and whether your device is on their supported list.Calls may drop if you leave WiFi range mid-call
Most phones won’t hand off the call from WiFi to cellular smoothly. Walk too far from your router during a call, and you’ll likely be cut off.Emergency services location tracking may be limited
Some mobile networks can’t automatically transmit your exact location to emergency responders during WiFi calls. Carriers are working on improving this with next-gen emergency call routing.
Pro Tip: Optimise Your Setup for the Best Experience
Use a fibre-based internet connection for stable, high-quality calls.
Place your WiFi router in an open central spot to reduce signal drop.
Enable WiFi Calling in your phone settings (look under Network > Mobile Network or Calls).
If your WiFi is backed by a mobile router (LTE/5G), invest in a UPS or power bank to keep it online during loadshedding.
Consider using a dual-SIM phone to switch between networks for coverage and flexibility.
The Bigger Picture
WiFi calling has pushed mobile carriers to up their game. Most now offer it as a standard feature—and it’s become an essential tool for both business and personal communication, especially in connectivity-challenged regions.
While it doesn’t replace mobile coverage entirely, WiFi calling adds a powerful layer of reliability. It’s especially valuable in South Africa, where electricity disruptions and rural coverage gaps make flexible communication options more important than ever.
Bottom line? If your phone and provider support WiFi calling, it’s worth turning on. It costs nothing extra, runs quietly in the background, and could save you from missed calls when you need to stay connected most.
