In today’s digital age, we rely heavily on our smartphones for communication. Android phones offer a convenient feature called Wi-Fi Calling, which allows users to make or receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of relying solely on a cellular network. While Wi-Fi Calling can provide better call quality and reliability, there are instances where you may want to disable this feature. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to turn off Wi-Fi Calling on your Android phone.
Why Disable Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling can be a valuable feature, especially for individuals living in areas with poor cellular reception but have access to a stable Wi-Fi network. It ensures that you can make or receive calls even when the cellular network is weak. However, there are a few reasons why you might want to consider disabling Wi-Fi Calling:
Security Concerns: Some Android devices, particularly Samsung flagships with Exynos modems, have been found to be vulnerable to malicious attacks through VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling. Disabling Wi-Fi Calling can help mitigate potential security risks.
Unreliable Wi-Fi Networks: While Wi-Fi networks are generally reliable, public networks or networks with weak signals can result in dropped calls or poor call quality. Disabling Wi-Fi Calling ensures that your calls are routed through the cellular network for a more consistent experience.
Unused Feature: If you rarely find yourself in situations where Wi-Fi Calling is necessary, disabling the feature can help conserve battery life and reduce network usage.
Now that we understand the reasons why you might want to disable Wi-Fi Calling, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for different Android devices.
How to Disable Wi-Fi Calling on Stock Android Devices
Most stock Android devices offer a straightforward method to disable Wi-Fi Calling. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
- Scroll down and tap on Network & internet.
- Look for the Calls & SMS option and tap on it.
- Locate the Wi-Fi Calling option and toggle the switch next to it to disable the feature.
By following these simple steps, you can easily turn off Wi-Fi Calling on your stock Android device.
Disabling Wi-Fi Calling on Other Android Phones
If you’re using a non-stock Android device, such as Samsung or OnePlus, the process to disable Wi-Fi Calling may vary slightly. Here are the steps for popular Android phone brands:
Samsung Phones
Samsung phones provide two methods to disable Wi-Fi Calling. Let’s explore both options:
- Open thePhone app on your Samsung phone.
- Tap the three-dot menu button in the top-right corner to access additional options.
- SelectSettings from the menu.
- Tap on theCalls option.
- Locate theWi-Fi Calling feature and switch it off.
Alternatively, you can disable Wi-Fi Calling through theSettings app:
- Open theSettings app on your Samsung phone.
- Tap on theConnections option.
- Look for theWi-Fi Calling toggle and switch it off.
With these methods, you can easily disable Wi-Fi Calling on your Samsung phone.
OnePlus Phones
OnePlus phones provide a straightforward method to disable Wi-Fi Calling:
- Open theSettings app on your OnePlus phone.
- Tap onMobile Network.
- Select individual SIMs if you have a dual SIM device.
- Look for theWi-Fi Calling option and toggle it off.
By following these steps, you can disable Wi-Fi Calling on your OnePlus phone.
Considerations and Additional Information
Before disabling Wi-Fi Calling, there are a few considerations and additional information you should be aware of:
Not all carriers support Wi-Fi Calling. Contact your mobile network provider to confirm if the feature is available for your plan.
Make sure your Android device is compatible with Wi-Fi Calling. Check with your device manufacturer or refer to the device’s documentation for compatibility information.
Wi-Fi Calling can be a useful feature in areas with poor cellular reception. If you frequently experience weak cellular signals, it might be beneficial to keep Wi-Fi Calling enabled.
When using Wi-Fi Calling, your calls are usually deducted from the minutes included in your cellular plan. If you have limited minutes, be mindful of your usage.
It’s recommended to disable Wi-Fi Calling if you’re connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. This ensures the security of your calls and protects your personal information.
Conclusion
Wi-Fi Calling is a convenient feature that allows Android users to make or receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network. However, there may be instances where you want to disable this feature due to security concerns, unreliable Wi-Fi networks, or personal preferences. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily turn off Wi-Fi Calling on your Android phone. Remember to consider your specific circumstances and consult with your mobile network provider if you have any questions or concerns. Stay connected and enjoy a seamless calling experience on your Android device!