4G calling

4G calling means that the phone uses the 4G network for phone calls, instead of the 2G and 3G networks, which have traditionally been used for phone calls. The advantages of 4G calling include better network coverage and sound quality, and the ability to use the internet simultaneously during a call without the connection deteriorating. On this page, we will explain more about how 4G calling works, what you need to access the service, and how to activate the feature on your mobile phone.

How does 4G calling work?

The technology behind 4G calling is essentially VoIP, which converts voice calls into data to ‘trick’ the system, as both 4G and 5G networks are primarily intended for data traffic. Previously, our mobiles automatically switched to 3G or 2G for outgoing or incoming minutes, but with 4G calling, the mobile instead connects voice minutes to the 4G network.

Did you know? With 4G calling, you don’t need to end a call to use the internet; you can use data and make calls over 4G simultaneously. 4G calling requires 4G/LTE, but works on both 4G and 5G. However, if there is no support for what is called 5G SA (Standalone Access) and only for 5G NSA (Non-Standalone Access), the phone will automatically switch down to 4G when 4G calling is used.

4G calling was developed to leverage the capacity of newer and more powerful networks and to improve network coverage and audio quality for voice minutes, simply making it smoother for mobile users to make and receive calls. But it has also been economically advantageous for the providers to be able to gather their customers on one and the same network. As both 3G and 2G are being phased out, the development of 4G calling has been more or less necessary.

The benefits of 4G calling

  • Provides faster call connection
  • Provides better sound quality
  • Enables data usage during a call
  • Is a prerequisite for WiFi calling

What do you need for 4G calling to work?

To access 4G calling, you must have a SIM only plan or pay as you go SIM and a mobile phone that supports the feature. Today, most providers have updated their contracts and pay as you go SIMs with 4G calling, so there is unlikely to be any major issues. 

Most newer mobile phones should support both 4G calling and WiFi calling. However, it is worth noting that each provider’s solution for 4G calling is unique to them, which means the mobile must support the specific solution used by your provider. You can view which mobiles are compatible with a particular provider’s 4G calling service on their respective websites. Take the time to check for peace of mind.

Do both iPhone and Android support 4G calling?

Yes, most newer iPhone and Android mobiles support 4G calling. But as we mentioned above, it is necessary for the mobile to support your provider’s specific 4G calling solution for the service to work. If you have an older iPhone or Android model (such as from Samsung, Huawei, or Motorola) and are unsure if it supports 4G calling, it might be wise to double-check with the provider directly or visit their page about 4G calling.

Regardless of the mobile brand and model, we advise you to make sure the phone is updated with the latest version of the operating system.

How to enable 4G calling on iPhone and Android

In some cases, 4G calling is enabled on the mobile from the start, but you may need to unlock this feature yourself. Fortunately, it is both quick and easy, and it costs nothing as it is included just like regular minutes in your plan. Below, we cover the steps taken, but keep in mind that it may vary slightly between different models and that the descriptions are merely examples of the various options.

Activate 4G calling on iPhone

  1. Open Settings and select Mobile Data.
  2. Ensure that mobile data is enabled and then click on Mobile data options.
  3. Choose Voice & data.
  4. Ensure that LTE is checked, if not, do it now.
  5. Enable 4G calling.

Activate 4G calling on Samsung

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Connection.
  3. Choose Network.
  4. Select LTE voice call by sliding the toggle to the right.

Enable 4G calling on Xiaomi

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Choose SIM card and network.
  3. Click on the SIM card slot for the provider’s SIM card.
  4. Activate 4G calling.

Activate 4G calling on Sony and Motorola

  1. Open Apps.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Select Network & Internet > Mobile networks.
  4. Activate 4G calling by sliding the toggle to the right.

Activate 4G calling on Google Pixel

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select Network & Internet > Mobile network.
  3. Click on Advanced.
  4. Select Enable 4G Calling.

In some cases, you may need to restart your mobile phone after enabling 4G calling for it to work. But then everything should be ready.

Will 4G calling affect my data usage?

No, 4G calling does not affect your data usage, even though the call goes via 4G.

Is 4G calling the same as VoLTE?

Yes, 4G calling and VoLTE are the same thing. Many providers have simply chosen to call the technology 4G calling to clarify what the technology actually does.