Airtel VoWi-Fi launched: Here's how you can set it up
Airtel has become the first telecom company in India to offer VoWi-Fi service. Dubbed as Airtel Wi-Fi calling, the feature is currently available in Delhi-NCR and will gradually be rolled out across the country. The service lets you make and receive calls over Wi-Fi even if you don't have cellular connectivity, and at no extra cost. Here's how you can set up the service.
Make sure your handsets supports VoWi-Fi
Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWi-Fi) uses Voice over IP (VoIP) technology to make/receive calls. Hence, it can be activated on only those smartphones that support VoWi-Fi. Currently, Airtel's Wi-Fi Calling is supported on several handsets including all iPhone 6s and later models, Redmi K20 series, POCO F1, Samsung Galaxy J6, A10s, On6, M30s, and the OnePlus 7 and OnePlus 7T series.
How to enable Airtel Wi-Fi calling on your phone
Interestingly, Airtel VoWi-Fi does not require any additional apps and can be configured on a compatible handset. Firstly, make sure you upgrade your device to its latest software version. Now, navigate to settings and turn on Wi-Fi calling and VoLTE. It is important to activate both VoW-Fi and VoLTE so that your device can seamlessly transition between cellular and Wi-Fi calling.
At present, Airtel Wi-Fi calling works with Xstream broadband only
But, do note that the service is compatible only with Airtel's Xstream Fiber home broadband, at the moment. However, the company plans to roll out support for other broadband services and Wi-Fi hotspots.
The service is touted to offer enhanced calling experience
According to the telco, its Wi-Fi Calling feature is "designed to enhance voice calling experience for Airtel smartphone customers, especially when they are indoors." It allows you to seamlessly switch from LTE to VoWi-Fi when you are indoors, allowing for better signal quality and superior audio quality. Airtel also claims that Wi-Fi calling will use minimal data, and won't levy any additional charges.
