We’re taking more steps towards all communication on mobile devices moving to data.
Now users on the iPhone 6 and 6S running iOS 9 will have access to WiFi calling on AT&T. This feature will be built into post-paid plans, and wont affect any current services the consumer might be paying for.
WiFi calling allows people to move voice calls to data networks, without managing separate VOIP phone numbers, and can makes for a handy solution in areas with poor call quality. Once this feature is enabled, text messages can also travel over WiFi.
While we’ve seen services like Google Voice in the past, AT&T has recently been making moves to incorporate more cell connection “mobility”. Supporting products like the Gear S smartwatch which could move calls back and forth between the SIM in your phone and the SIM on your wrist. Earlier this year at their developer conference, they showed off demos of people moving video calls seamlessly between PC and phone, all tied to the phone number on their plan.
Moving forward, it seems your phone number will be less a static way to call someone, and more your Login ID for richer data driven communication.
You can read the full press release below.
AT&T Customers Can Make Calls Over Wi-Fi on Select Devices Beginning Oct. 8
October 08, 2015
By Bill Smith
With the FCC recently granting AT&T’s waiver request related to certain deaf and hard of hearing technology, AT&T customers will be able to use Wi-Fi in addition to the traditional cellular network to make and receive calls while in the U.S. beginning Oct. 8.*
Wi-Fi Calling is a complement to AT&T’s already great network coverage. Along with a network that covers more than 99 percent of all Americans, our customers now have an option for making calls in areas where a cellular signal is tough to get – such as a home or office with dense building construction.
Once set-up, your phone will use Wi-Fi Calling automatically in places where you have limited or no cell signal, but you do have a Wi-Fi Internet connection.
In order to use Wi-Fi Calling, customers just need a compatible device with iOS 9 installed, a postpaid wireless account set-up for HD Voice and a Wi-Fi Internet connection. This includes a Wi-Fi connection set up at home or the office.
Wi-Fi Calling works in the background, allowing you to make and receive calls like you would on the cellular network. Since the service is built-in, you have the same telephone number and access to your contacts without having to add them to a separate app.
Wi-Fi Calling is easy to set-up and, in most ways, making a call over Wi-Fi is a lot like a regular phone call. There is no additional charge on calls to U.S. numbers.
Head over to www.att.com/wificalling for more information.