In this article, we will go through how you can benefit from VoLTE or Wi-Fi calling, and how to activate VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling on an iOS mobile phone and an Android mobile phone.
What is VoLTE?
VoLTE (Voice over LTE): Allows your phone to make calls over the 4G/5G network instead of dropping down to 2G or 3G. This results in HD voice quality and lets you browse the web at high speeds while talking being in a call.
Note
In countries where 2G and/or 3G still exist: for good quality calls, we recommend using VoLTE.
VoLTE for Android
The steps may vary slightly depending on your manufacturer (Samsung, Pixel, etc.), but the logic remains the same.
How do I activate VoLTE on my Android phone?
Make sure you have updated your phone to the latest software version. This will automatically enable VoLTE when you have 5G.
For VoLTE to work on Samsung, you need to install One UI 6.1 or later. If you have an Android from a brand other than Samsung, you need the latest version of Android (at least 16).
Update to One UI 6.1
Your internet and MMS settings will be automatically entered if you are running One UI 6.1 or later, to update to One UI 6.1.
Follow the steps below to update your phone to One UI 6.1:
- Go to Settings on your phone
- Select Software Update
- Click Download and Install
- Then click Download
- When the update is complete, it should look like this:
Call waiting
To get full call waiting functionality, the feature needs to be activated in the Telavox app on your mobile phone. This is done in the Telavox app under Settings > General > Call Waiting.
If you do not want any call waiting functionality at all, make sure that the feature is not activated in the Telavox app and also make sure to disable call waiting in the phone itself. To disable call waiting, navigate to the settings in the phone itself.
If you can't find the setting in the menus, you can also deactivate call waiting by dialing #43# from your phone.
VoLTE for iOS
Good to know
Most modern iPhones (iPhone 6 and later) are compatible with VoLTE. If you are on iOS 17 or later, VoLTE is often enabled by default.
How do I activate VoLTE on my iPhone?
Ensure you have updated your phone to the latest software version.
After restarting the phone, please follow the below steps to activate VoLTE:
- Open the Settings app and choose Mobile Data
- Choose Mobile Data Options
- Choose Voice & Data
- Choose 4G or 5G and activate VoLTE
Keep in mind that the steps may vary depending on phone model, double SIM-cards etc.
Good to know
If you cannot see the VoLTE option anywhere, it means it has been enabled automatically.
How do I know VoLTE works?
If you're calling with VoLTE it means that you're using the 4G (LTE) network during the call, instead of 2G or 3G. Because of this, you should be able to see the 4G symbol on your phone while being in a call. You should also be able to use your mobile data during the call.
Keep in mind that the phone automatically switches between 2G/3G and 4G (LTE) depending on your current connection to each network.
Call waiting
To get full call waiting functionality you'll need to activate it in the Telavox mobile app. This is done in the Telavox app below Settings > General > Call waiting.
If you do not want any call waiting functionality at all, make sure to disable it on both your phone and in the Telavox app.
Follow the below steps to adjust call waiting on iPhone:
- Open the Settings app
- Choose Phone
- Choose Call waiting
If you can't find the setting in the menus, you can also deactivate call waiting by dialing #43# from your phone.
How do I activate WiFi-calling?
- Open the Settings app and choose Mobile Data
- Choose Wi-Fi
- Then turn on Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone
What is Wi-Fi calling?
Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi): Uses a Wi-Fi connection to make and receive calls when the cellular signal is weak. It is a lifesaver for buildings with thick walls or poor indoor reception.
Wi-Fi calling for Android
The steps may vary slightly depending on your manufacturer (Samsung, Pixel, etc.), but the logic remains the same.
How to Activate Wi-Fi Calling
- Method A (Settings): Go to Settings > Connections > Toggle Wi-Fi Calling to On
- Method B (Phone App): Open the Phone app > Tap the three dots (top right) > Settings > Toggle Wi-Fi Calling
Tip for Samsung users
For the best experience, ensure you have updated to at least One UI 6.1, as Telavox optimizes its network settings with the latest software versions.
Wi-fi calling for iOS
How to Activate Wi-Fi Calling
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data
- Tap Wi-Fi Calling
- Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to On
- Confirm any prompts regarding emergency address registration if requested
Troubleshooting & optimization
Feature |
How to check if it is working |
VoLTE |
During a call, look at your signal bar. If it still says 4G(LTE) or 5G (and has not dropped to 3G/H+), VoLTE is active. |
Wi-Fi Calling |
Pull down your Control Center/Notification shade. You should see "Telavox Wi-Fi" or a Wi-Fi icon next to the carrier name. |
Still having trouble?
If you have no cellular signal and no Wi-Fi, remember you can always use the Telavox Mobile App to make calls via mVoIP (Mobile Voice over IP) using any available data connection.
- Open the Telavox App
- Go to Settings > General > Dialing Method
- Select VoIP (uses data)