You have probably used virtual communication platforms like Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp many times. They all use WiFi to connect you to the ones you love. A few years ago, these platforms were seen as a threat to normal cellular network calls. Because most people preferred calling over WiFi and that saved a lot of money. Moreover, VoIP technology also helped in making wifi calling a reliable way to communicate. But now, things have progressed even further with the advent of carrier-branded Wifi calls.
They are the modern way to communicate over phone calls. All you need is a cellular network that supports Wifi calls and a reliable internet connection. You can Call Cox to get more information about carrier charges for such types of calls. You can enjoy a reliable call line and might not even have to pay anything extra than your internet bill.
So, what is this new way of calling over the internet? And does it provide the same quality of voice? Find out this and a lot more about what it means for your cellular bill.
Table of Contents
What Is WiFi Calling?
If you consider things from the user’s perspective, a Wifi call is the same as a regular cellular call. You won’t feel any difference in how you connect to someone. Moreover, the voice quality is also the same (or better) in most cases. The only difference is that instead of using the cellular network, you would connect through a call over Wifi. You can dial a number from your phone normally, use the speaker, call-forwarding, and other similar features.
So, the difference only means something behind the scenes. Your call data would be routed through your Wifi cellular network. So, even if your cellular network’s coverage is weak, you could still connect to it. As long as your Wifi is working, you are good to go.
Call Over WiFi Vs VoIP
VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) has been around for a while now. With VoIP, we can enjoy free Wifi calling but we need a platform for it. For instance, all virtual calling applications such as WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, Zoom, etc., all use VoIP technology. It has become very popular around the world as one of the most convenient ways to connect.
Wifi calling and VoIP sound very similar, but they aren’t the same thing. With VoIP, people normally refer to standalone platforms or apps. From a user perspective, you probably won’t feel a thing when you are on the call. Most of the features are similar and you would still be using a Wifi connection. However, with Wifi calls, you don’t need to download or install a separate platform. You can use the regular calling method from your phone.
There is a prominent setting in most newer phone models. It isn’t very common for now however you can still use it for free Wifi calling. Depending upon your phone model, you can go to the cellular network settings and change the default option. As a result, whenever there is a Wifi connection available, your phone will automatically shift your call over to it.
Perks of Free Wifi Calling for Homes and Businesses
When you call through Wifi, the most evident advantage is the reduction in your phone bill. You won’t have to pay for your cellular network, even for overseas calls. You can just do it over Wifi. Moreover, it is reliable and accessible for all, even in remote areas. Here are some of the most evident advantages:
1. An Effective Plan B
Wifi calling might be one of the best ways to call someone when your cellular network is weak. So, no matter where you
are, if you have Wifi, you will always stay connected. If you are the kind of person who likes to have contingency plans, then you should activate Wifi calls.
2. No Additional Requirements
You need to install VoIP applications or platforms on your phone. They can take up space on your phone and their data backups could also hog most of your cloud storage. But if you are calling with carrier-branded Wifi calls, you don’t need any extra apps. Just get in touch with your ISP like the Cox call center, and ask for details. It is a built-in feature on most phones so you don’t have to download anything.
3. Reliable Connection
If you’re home, you’re probably using your home WiFi to make the call. So, the connection can be one of the most reliable and effective. You are probably a lot closer to the WiFi router than you are to the cellular network tower. Moreover, you can also avoid congestion because you’ll be using a private network.
4. Cost-Effective
When you use the call over Wifi feature, you aren’t paying anything to your cellular network. So, it can be very affordable for people who have to make long work calls. Or for those who live away from their families. So, instead of paying hefty amounts as cellular bills, and can rely on your internet connection.
Conclusion
Any service can’t be perfect and there are some potential drawbacks to Wifi calling as well. For instance, if you are in a public setting such as a library, you can’t trust the public network. The signal could be weak or the WiFi hotspot could be unavailable. But in either case, this technology can be a great way to save money in a much more convenient way. So, you should weigh the pros and cons according to your situation and make an informed decision.
