BSNL launches WiFi calling services across India
New Delhi, January 1
On New Year, state-owned telecommunications provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited announced the nationwide rollout of Voice over WiFi, also known as Wi-Fi Calling.
This advanced service is now available to all BSNL customers across every telecom circle in the country, ensuring seamless and high-quality connectivity even in challenging environments, Ministry of Communications said in a statement on Thursday.
The service is now available to BSNL customers across all telecom circles in the country.
VoWiFi enables customers to make and receive voice calls and messages over a Wi-Fi network, ensuring clear and reliable connectivity in areas with weak mobile signal such as homes, offices, basements, and remote locations.
VoWiFi is an IMS-based service that supports seamless handovers between Wi-Fi and mobile networks.
"Calls are made using the customer's existing mobile number and phone dialer, without the need for third-party applications," the ministry said.
The service is particularly beneficial in rural and remote areas where mobile coverage may be limited, provided a stable Wi-Fi connection is available, including BSNL Bharat Fiber or other broadband services.
VoWiFi also helps reduce network congestion and is offered free of cost, with no additional charges for Wi-Fi calls.
"The launch of VoWiFi is an important step in BSNL's network modernization programme and its commitment to improving connectivity across the country, especially in underserved areas," the ministry said.
VoWiFi is supported on most modern smartphones. Customers only need to enable Wi-Fi Calling in their handset settings. For device compatibility and support, customers may visit the nearest BSNL customer service centre or contact the BSNL helpline - 18001503.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will soon launch its 5G services. Pilot project for 5G has been completed, along with trials for the upgradation of the 4G networks.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an expat living in India, I appreciate this move. The basement parking in my Bangalore apartment has zero signal. If this works as advertised, it will solve a real daily hassle. Hope the handover between WiFi and mobile network is truly seamless.
Good step, but BSNL needs to focus on improving its basic 4G network coverage and speed first. In many semi-urban areas, the data connection is still very poor. WiFi calling is useful, but what about places without reliable broadband? The 5G rollout news is encouraging though.
Finally! Private operators have had this for years. It's about time our own BSNL caught up. This will be very helpful during power outages when we rely on inverter-powered WiFi but the mobile tower is down. Jai Hind!
The fact that it's free and uses your existing number is the best part. No need for WhatsApp or Telegram calls. Hope the customer service helpline is actually responsive to guide people on enabling it. A good step towards Digital India.
Interesting development. Reducing network congestion is a smart benefit. If this works well in remote locations, it could really boost connectivity for rural businesses and education. The success will depend on affordable and reliable broadband penetration in those areas.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.