Pros and Cons of Wi-Fi Calling: Evaluating the Benefits and Limitations

The rise of Wi-Fi calling has become extensive in the past decade. Improvements in Internet connectivity and advancements in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) have contributed to its popularity.

The benefits it provides are also the reason it is gaining popularity. The benefits of Wi-Fi calling include better call quality, data savings, a wide range of availability, ease of use, and no requirement for additional hardware components. 

In this article, we will further discuss the pros and cons of Wi-Fi calling. We will evaluate the benefits and limitations in detail.

Wi-Fi Calling

WiFi calling is a voice-based technology that allows users to make and receive calls through a wireless internet connection. It is a technology that is powered by Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). 

Wi-Fi calls are made by connecting to a Wi-Fi network rather than using a phone’s data plan. This will help to cut down the cost of phone services. You can use Wi-Fi calling in areas where there is no cellular coverage which is really helpful if you are traveling internationally.

Is it Safe to Use Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling is safe to use, but it depends on the specific application. Generally, encryption is used to secure communication in the Wi-Fi network. It protects sensitive data by converting plain messages into meaningless messages.

There are some factors that make sure whether Wi-Fi calling is safe are not. The Wi-Fi network itself should be secure; otherwise, the call will be at risk of eavesdropping. It is crucial to ensure that your wifi network is trustworthy and the device you are using is up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Further, you should be aware of what security features your particular phone system and carrier provide.

Pros of Wi-Fi Calling

With an internet connection, Wi-Fi calling lets you make and receive calls from any location. These are the pros of Wi-Fi calling:

1. Improved Call Quality

Calling over Wi-Fi is more stable and provides a higher bandwidth connection than calling over cellular networks. As a result, Wi-Fi calling provides more clear and consistent call quality. It reduces the background noises and minimizes disturbance while calling.

As Wi-Fi connections have higher data rates, they allow more data to be transferred per second. Static and dropped packets are reduced, resulting in smoother audio quality and making it easier to understand and communicate.

2. Wider Coverage in Areas with Weak Cellular Signals

Wi-Fi calling is beneficial for areas where there are weak or poor cellular signals. It offers wider coverage by allowing you to make calls even if you are in an area where a cellular signal is unavailable. 

Within the Wi-Fi network’s coverage area, you are able to stay connected and make calls from farther distances. Wi-Fi signals can penetrate buildings, thick walls, and metal structures easily, allowing you to have constant communication. 

3. Cost Savings for International Calls

Cost savings for international calls is one of the significant advantages of Wi-Fi calling. Here are ways Wi-Fi calling helps to save money on international calls:

• Avoid International Roaming Charges: While traveling abroad, your mobile service provider may charge you international calling rates and roaming fees, but Wi-Fi calling gives you relief from these phone-calling charges.
• Using Local Wi-Fi Connections: Most airports, hotels, restaurants, cafes, and other public places offer WiFi for free. You can enable Wi-Fi calling and make calls by connecting to these networks without using your cellular network.
• Calling Apps: Using WiFi calling-supported apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime, you can make international calls without paying long-distance fees. 

4. Seamless Call Handoff Between Wi-Fi and Cellular Networks

This feature lets you switch ongoing calls between Wi-Fi and cellular networks without any interruption or drop in the call quality. Here are some benefits of a seamless call handoff between Wi-Fi and cellular networks:

• No Dropped Calls: Your call will seamlessly be transferred from one network to another network without dropping or cutting.
• Improved Call Quality: Your phone will use the best available network for your call, resulting in improved call quality.
• Convenience: Your cell phone will manually switch your call between Wi-Fi and cellular calling.

Cons of Wi-Fi Calling

While WI-Fi calling has many advantages, as defined above, there are also a few cons. Some of them are discussed below:

1. Dependence on a Stable Wi-Fi Connection

Wi-Fi calling is a great way to make and receive calls, but it depends on a stable Wi-Fi connection. If you have a weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection, you may experience low sound quality and dropped calls.

This also affects the call handoff between Wi-Fi and cellular networks. An unstable Wi-Fi connection interrupts the handoff process, and the transition might not go smoothly as you expect. 

You have to make sure that your Wi-Fi connection is strong enough before using Wi-Fi calling to avoid these problems. 

2. Impact on Battery Life

If your phone constantly switches between Wi-Fi and cellular networks, it may drain your battery faster and impact overall battery life. It also requires more power to connect to the internet. 

Similarly, your device will continuously scan for available Wi-Fi networks to maintain a stable connection. This scanning process requires the device’s Wi-Fi radio to remain active, which leads to additional battery drain. 

Many other factors will determine how much your battery is affected by Wi-Fi calling, including your phone type, the strength of your Wi-Fi signal, and how long you are on the call.

3. Compatibility and Device Limitations

Wi-Fi calling is getting advanced and improving, but it also has device limitations and compatibility issues. Older smartphones or other communication devices may not support Wi-Fi calling due to a lack of the necessary requirements to enable this feature.

Some carriers may limit the use of Wi-Fi calling to devices they sell. This will restrict you from using Wi-Fi calling on cross-platforms. It could be a major problem if you rely on Wi-Fi calling to make calls. 

For those interested in maximizing the benefits of Wi-Fi calling, setting up wifi calling on smartphones is crucial. Understanding the intricacies of enabling this feature can empower users to make the most of this technology while being aware of its potential limitations.

4. Network and Infrastructure Requirements

Another disadvantage of Wi-Fi calling is network and infrastructure requirements. Wi-Fi calling relies on a stable and high-speed Wi-Fi network; if the connection is weak, it affects the audio quality or ends the ongoing call. 

Wi-Fi calling also requires a certain level of network infrastructure. For example, it is a technology powered by VoIP, which means it will only operate on a VoIP-supported network. 

Users who are making Wi-Fi connections from home need to make sure all the adequate network setup is done properly, the Wi-Fi router is new,  and it is properly configured and secured to maintain a good quality of call.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Wi-Fi calling has both pros and cons. It also brings various privacy and security considerations that you should know to protect your personal information. You have to recognize the potential risks and take appropriate measures.

Here are some key privacy and security considerations of Wi-Fi calling:

• Encryption and Data Security: You must ensure your Wi-Fi calling is secured with encryption such as WPA2 or WPA3 to prevent the data transmitted during your call from unauthorized access.
• Secure Wi-Fi Networks: You should avoid using public or free Wi-Fi networks for sensitive calls, as these networks are not adequately secured. 
• Carrier Security Measures: Contact your carrier to understand the security measures they have taken to protect Wi-Fi calling. Ensure whether or not they have encrypted the Wi-Fi network or taken other security measures.
• Phishing and Scams: Be attentive to online dangers like phishing and scams. Hackers and attackers may use different techniques to trick you into revealing your information and login credentials.

Traditional Cellular Calling VS Wi-Fi Calling

Traditional cellular calling and Wi-Fi calling are two different methods of calling, each having its characteristics and advantages. Let’s compare them:

Conclusion 

With the technological revolution, Wi-Fi calling is gaining popularity and adaptation over traditional cellular calling. The advantages of Wi-Fi calling are improved call quality, provides wider coverage, save costs on international calls, and provides seamless call handoff. 

However, there are also some disadvantages of Wi-Fi calling, including dependence on a stable Wi-Fi connection, impact on battery life, compatibility, device limitations, and specific network and infrastructure requirements.

Comparing traditional cellular and Wi-Fi calls is essential to leverage their benefits. However, Wi-Fi calling has more edge over traditional cellular calling.

FAQs

What are the problems with Wi-Fi calling?

Some of the problems with Wi-Fi calling are battery drain, network compatibility and coverage, security risks, call quality drops and call routing issues.

Can you use Wi-Fi calling internationally?

Yes, in most cases, you can use Wi-Fi calling internationally. It lets you make and receive calls from any location.

Does Wi-Fi calling save battery?

The impact of Wi-Fi calling on battery life depend on many factors. These factors include the strength of the Wi-Fi signal, hardware and software optimizations, and overall network condition.

Does WhatsApp use WiFi calling?

Yes, WhatsApp uses WiFi calling. WhatsApp uses Voice over Internet Protocol technology to make voice and video calls with an Internet connection.