Bharti Airtel has introduced Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), a first for India.
About:
Meaning: It uses high speed Internet connection, available via broadband, to make and receive high definition (HD) voice calls. Users don’t have to pay extra for these calls as it is using a Wi-Fi network.
Working: Wi-Fi Calling can be configured on compatible smartphones by upgrading operating systems to the version that supports Wi-Fi Calling, and enabling this in Settings. Keeping VoLTE switched on will help in seamless voice calling, but this is not essential.
Comparison with other platforms: This is not much different from a voice call using WhatsApp or any other over-the-top messaging platform, but here the call is from one number to another, and not using an app.
Benefits: Airtel Wi-Fi calling claims to enhance indoor voice calling experience for smartphone customers. Since these calls use stable Wi-Fi connections, call drops are not expected to be a problem. Wi-Fi Calling is aimed especially for areas where cellular networks are not strong.
Present status: At the moment the service is limited to Delhi-NCR users with compatible devices. For now, it will work only for users who have Wi-Fi on Airtel Xstream Fiber home broadband.
Way ahead: Airtel says it will soon be compatible with all broadband services and Wi-Fi hotspots, and rolled out in other locations. Reliance Jio can be expected to roll out its own VoWiFi service soon.
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