The 1 'switch' Brits can make to boost mobile phone reception
The simple switch will make taking phone calls so much easier.
There is nothing worse than struggling with bad mobile reception especially when you need to make an important call. However, there is one feature that will allow you to stay connected despite suffering from a bad mobile signal.
Brits have been informed about a feature that has been around for years, but has become more popular as more network providers have started to offer it. Yet, many people are still unaware of how the simple switch can give you a connection boost. Consumer group, Which? revealed it in a set of suggestions to improve your mobile phone reception.
Read more: Experts warn you've been holding your mobile phone the wrong way
Read more: Thousands in rural communities to receive mobile phone signal boost
The consumer group said: "If you're having trouble making calls and texts due to poor mobile signal you can try turning on Wi-fi calling."
Wi-Fi calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi connection instead of your mobile network's signal.
Most phone providers including EE, O2, Three and Vodafone offer wi-fi calling. Your phone must also support the feature, which most newer handsets do. For those with iPhones, Wi-fi calling is available from iPhone 6 and onwards. It is also available for various Android phones like Google, Honor, Huawei, Motorola, Samsung and Nokia.
Which? added: "Calls and texts made through wi-fi calling come out of your monthly allowance or are charged at the standard rate in the same way as when you're using the mobile signal."
If the wi-fi you're connected to is free or you've paid for unlimited access, such as the one you have at home, you will not have to pay extra. The feature will not use up any of your mobile data allowance.
While your phone should automatically switch to wi-fi calling when you're signal begins to struggle. You can double check if it is enabled on your phone and manually set it up if necessary.
For iPhones
- Go to Settings and select Mobile Service
- Select Wi-Fi Calling and tap the button to turn it on.
For Androids
It may vary depending on the model. However it typically follows this guide:
- Open the Phone app
- Tap the three dots on the right of the screen to acess Settings
- Tap the button next to Wi-Fi calling to activate it. If you can't see it you may need to select Calls first.