Can I Use WiFi Calling in Airplane Mode? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is yes, you can use Wi-Fi calling in airplane mode, but with a few important caveats. While airplane mode traditionally disables all wireless communication, including cellular service, it doesn’t necessarily shut down Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This means you can still connect to Wi-Fi networks and, consequently, make and receive calls through Wi-Fi calling, provided your phone and carrier support it. This capability offers a great way to stay connected without relying on cellular networks, especially in areas with poor service or when traveling internationally. This article will delve deeper into how this works and what you need to know about using Wi-Fi calling in airplane mode.
How Does Wi-Fi Calling in Airplane Mode Work?
Understanding Airplane Mode
Airplane mode is a setting designed to quickly disable all wireless communication on your device. This includes cellular service (making and receiving calls and texts, and mobile data), Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The primary purpose of this setting is to prevent potential interference with aircraft navigation systems. However, modern devices and regulations have evolved. Most smartphones now allow you to re-enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth manually after turning on airplane mode.
Enabling Wi-Fi After Turning on Airplane Mode
Once you enable airplane mode, your phone will sever all wireless connections. But you can simply go into your settings and manually turn Wi-Fi back on. The process is slightly different on iOS and Android but equally straightforward. This setting will not re-enable cellular. It’s key to understand that with airplane mode on, you will not be connected to cellular data.
The Magic of Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi calling, also known as Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), enables you to make and receive phone calls using a Wi-Fi connection instead of your cellular network. When your phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network and Wi-Fi calling is enabled, it treats calls much like regular internet data, routing your voice through the network. This is particularly useful in areas with weak cellular coverage, such as inside some buildings, basements, or while traveling in remote areas. It’s also crucial for saving on roaming charges when traveling internationally.
The Combination: Airplane Mode, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi Calling
When you put your phone in airplane mode, then manually enable Wi-Fi, your phone will connect to a Wi-Fi network. If you also have Wi-Fi calling enabled, your phone will route your calls through the Wi-Fi network. Essentially, you’re telling your phone to operate solely on Wi-Fi for both data and calls, while completely bypassing the cellular network, while also meeting the airplane mode requirements for flights. This is the basis of using Wi-Fi calling in airplane mode. You are only connected to Wi-Fi and not a cellular network.
Key Considerations and Requirements
Carrier Support
Not all carriers support Wi-Fi calling. Before relying on this feature, ensure that your carrier provides Wi-Fi calling. This information can usually be found on your carrier’s website or through customer support. Additionally, your specific plan may or may not include Wi-Fi calling.
Phone Compatibility
Most modern smartphones (both iOS and Android) support Wi-Fi calling. However, older devices might not have this capability. Check your device’s specifications or settings to confirm.
Wi-Fi Connection
A stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential for Wi-Fi calling. Poor or unstable Wi-Fi can lead to dropped calls or poor audio quality. Therefore, ensure your connection is strong and that you have a good Wi-Fi signal, especially when making long calls.
Emergency Calls
Wi-Fi calling is not always a reliable method for emergency calls. Since it relies on an internet connection, issues with your Wi-Fi network can impact the ability to reach emergency services. It’s best to confirm whether your Wi-Fi calling service supports emergency calls and always know your physical location when using it.
Cost
While Wi-Fi calling is a great alternative to traditional calls, it can sometimes incur charges depending on your carrier and plan. Some providers treat Wi-Fi calls to domestic numbers the same as regular calls. Others may charge extra fees, especially for international calls made via Wi-Fi. Ensure you are clear about your provider’s policy regarding Wi-Fi calling fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does AT&T Wi-Fi Calling Work in Airplane Mode?
Yes, AT&T Wi-Fi calling works in airplane mode as long as you manually turn Wi-Fi on after activating airplane mode, and your device indicates “ATT Wi-Fi”. Calls made to the U.S. will be treated as domestic calls, but international calls will be considered long distance.
2. Can I Make a Phone Call While in Airplane Mode?
Yes, with Wi-Fi enabled and Wi-Fi calling activated, you can make calls in airplane mode as you’re using an internet connection. If you are not connected to Wi-Fi you cannot make a call.
3. Why Is My Wi-Fi Calling Not Working in Airplane Mode?
Several factors could cause issues. Check if Wi-Fi calling is enabled in your phone’s settings, ensure your Wi-Fi connection is stable, and confirm your carrier supports Wi-Fi calling. Also, make sure you turned Wi-Fi back on after activating airplane mode.
4. Can I Receive a Text in Airplane Mode?
No, you will not receive text messages directly in airplane mode. Although you can send a message if you are connected to Wi-Fi, you will not be able to receive one if you are not connected to Wi-Fi. Once you disable airplane mode and reconnect to a cellular or Wi-Fi network, messages will be delivered.
5. Why Am I Still Getting Calls on Airplane Mode?
This usually happens because Wi-Fi calling is active, which means your calls are being routed over your Wi-Fi network. As long as you have Wi-Fi enabled, calls will be routed this way, even if airplane mode is on.
6. Can I Make Wi-Fi Calls with an iPhone in Airplane Mode?
Yes, iPhones support Wi-Fi calling in airplane mode. Ensure that Wi-Fi calling is enabled and Wi-Fi is turned on after engaging airplane mode. Make sure you also check with your carrier to make sure it’s supported.
7. How Do I Know If Someone is on Airplane Mode?
You cannot directly tell if someone’s phone is on airplane mode. Usually, if calls go straight to voicemail or messages aren’t delivered immediately, it could be a sign they’re in airplane mode.
8. What Happens When Someone Texts Me When My Phone is on Airplane Mode?
When your phone is on airplane mode, it essentially shuts off all communication with the outside world. This means that any messages you receive will not be delivered to your device until you turn off airplane mode and reconnect to a cellular or Wi-Fi network.
9. What Are the Disadvantages of Wi-Fi Calling?
One main drawback is that it can drain your battery faster than cellular calls. It also uses data, so if you have a limited data plan, it could use up your allotted usage.
10. Do Calls Go Straight to Voicemail in Airplane Mode?
If you have Wi-Fi calling disabled, calls will go to voicemail when your phone is in airplane mode and not connected to Wi-Fi, as your phone is not connected to a network. However, if you have Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi calling enabled, you will receive calls on your phone.
11. How Can I Turn Off Wi-Fi Calling?
To turn off Wi-Fi calling, go to your phone’s settings, then connections, then Wi-Fi calling, and toggle it off. You can also do this on the quick settings panel by swiping down from the top of the screen and selecting the Wi-Fi calling icon.
12. Can I Use Wi-Fi Calling Without Service?
Yes, you can use Wi-Fi calling on your Android or iPhone to make calls using Wi-Fi rather than your cellular network. Wi-Fi calling is useful in cell service dead zones or buildings with spotty service.
13. How Can I Get Free Wi-Fi on a Plane?
Switch your device to airplane mode and turn on Wi-Fi. Select the airline’s Wi-Fi network (DeltaWifi, AlaskaWifi, etc.), then open any internet browser to go to the Wi-Fi homepage, where you will be directed to a login page.
14. What Happens If I Don’t Turn My Phone on Airplane Mode When Flying?
If your phone is not in airplane mode, it will try to connect to multiple networks on the ground, which can overload the networks and cause interference. Airlines also ask you turn them off during takeoff and landing.
15. Can Flight Attendants Tell if You Don’t Put Your Phone into Airplane Mode?
Flight attendants are not usually able to tell if a phone is on or not.. They do not have devices or the means to do so. However, airlines do require them to be in airplane mode during flights and they should be for your own safety and the safety of others.
Conclusion
Using Wi-Fi calling in airplane mode is a useful way to stay connected without relying on cellular data, especially during travel. By understanding the mechanics of how it works, the necessary requirements, and the limitations, you can make the most of this technology and enjoy uninterrupted communication wherever you are. Always check the specific details of your carrier’s plans and your device’s settings to ensure the best experience.