The Samsung Galaxy S21 is a remarkable device with cutting-edge features, one of which is WiFi calling. This feature allows you to make and receive calls over a WiFi network instead of using your cellular network. While this can be convenient, there may be times when you want to turn off WiFi calling for various reasons such as network issues, battery saving, or personal preference. In this article, we will provide an in-depth, step-by-step guide on how to disable WiFi calling on your Samsung S21, ensuring that you have complete control over your calling settings.
Understanding WiFi Calling
Before we delve into the specifics of turning off WiFi calling on your Samsung S21, it’s essential to understand what this feature entails and its benefits.
What is WiFi Calling?
WiFi calling allows your smartphone to use a WiFi network to connect calls instead of relying solely on your cellular network. This can be incredibly useful in areas where cellular reception is weak but WiFi connectivity is strong. But what exactly are the advantages of WiFi calling?
- Improved Call Quality: WiFi calling generally provides clearer voice quality, especially in locations where traditional cellular signals are inadequate.
- Cost-Effective: If you have an unlimited WiFi plan, you could save on cellular charges, especially when traveling internationally.
When to Turn Off WiFi Calling
While WiFi calling has its benefits, there are times when it might not be ideal to keep it enabled:
- Network Stability: Your WiFi connection might have instability or issues, causing disruptions during calls.
- Battery Life: Utilizing WiFi calling continuously may drain your phone’s battery faster, particularly if the device switches between networks frequently.
If you’re facing any of these issues, it might be a good idea to disable WiFi calling temporarily or permanently based on your needs.
Steps to Turn Off WiFi Calling on Samsung S21
Disabling WiFi calling on the Samsung S21 is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to turn it off:
Step 1: Open Settings
- Begin by locating and tapping on the Settings icon on your Samsung S21’s home screen or apps drawer.
Step 2: Navigate to Connections
- Within the Settings menu, find and select Connections. This section manages all your network-related settings.
Step 3: Select WiFi Calling
- Scroll down to locate WiFi calling. This option may be listed under the more options section, depending on your device’s layout.
Step 4: Toggle Off WiFi Calling
- Once inside the WiFi calling menu, look for the toggle switch at the top of the screen.
- Tap the switch to turn it off. The switch should change to gray, indicating that WiFi calling has been disabled.
Additional Settings to Consider
Once you’ve turned off WiFi calling, you might want to explore additional settings related to calls to enhance your overall experience.
Managing Call Preferences
Samsung devices feature various call-related options that you might find helpful:
Call Forwarding
This setting allows you to redirect calls to another number when you’re unable to answer. To modify call forwarding settings:
- Go back to the Connections menu.
- Select More Connection Settings.
- Choose Call forwarding and adjust preferences according to your needs.
Call barring
This feature permits you to block specific numbers from calling you. To enable this:
- Open the Dialer app.
- Tap on the three-dot menu (usually in the upper right corner).
- Select Settings, then Call blocking and manage your blocked numbers.
Why Is My WiFi Calling Still Active?
If you have followed the steps to disable WiFi calling but find that it remains active, there may be a few reasons for this occurrence.
Network Provider Settings
Sometimes, the network provider has settings that may override your device’s preferences. Ensure you check with your provider if you continue experiencing issues.
Device Software Updates
Occasionally, the software on your Samsung S21 may need an update. Make sure your device is running the latest version of its operating system. To check for updates:
- Go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Software update.
- Tap on Download and install to see if any updates are available.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
After disabling WiFi calling, you may encounter issues related to call functionality. Here are some common troubleshooting steps:
Restart Your Device
A simple restart can resolve various issues. Here’s how to do it:
- Press and hold the power button until the power menu appears.
- Tap Restart.
Check Your Network Connection
Ensure that your mobile network and WiFi settings are correctly configured. You want to verify that your device has a stable connection to either network.
Factory Reset (if necessary)
If issues persist and significantly hinder functionality, a factory reset can be a last resort. Be sure to back up your data before proceeding:
- Go to Settings.
- Select General Management.
- Choose Reset, and then Factory data reset. Follow the prompts.
Conclusion
Turning off WiFi calling on your Samsung S21 can be essential for maintaining optimal call quality and network performance, especially in areas with weak WiFi or network issues. By following the straightforward steps outlined in this article, you can easily disable this feature. Always consider regularly checking your call settings to ensure that your device meets your communication preferences.
Your phone is your connection to the world—make sure to manage it effectively for the ultimate user experience. Whether you’re troubleshooting, adjusting settings, or needing to turn WiFi calling off, being proactive will help you enjoy your Samsung S21 to its fullest potential. Remember, technology should serve your needs, not the other way around!
What is WiFi Calling and why would I want to turn it off on my Samsung S21?
WiFi Calling allows your Samsung S21 to make and receive voice calls over a WiFi network instead of the cellular network. This feature can be particularly useful in areas where cellular signals are weak or unreliable, allowing you to stay connected without interruptions. While this technology enhances connectivity in many scenarios, some users prefer to rely solely on cellular networks due to concerns about quality, privacy, or battery consumption.
Turning off WiFi Calling can also help to prevent unintended usage, particularly if you are on a metered internet connection. Additionally, certain features like SMS or emergency services may not function as expected when using WiFi Calling. For these reasons, some users may choose to disable this feature for a more traditional calling experience.
How do I access the settings to turn off WiFi Calling on my Samsung S21?
To access the settings for WiFi Calling on your Samsung S21, you need to open the ‘Settings’ app on your device. You can do this by swiping down from the top of the screen to view the notification panel and tapping the gear icon, or simply finding the app in your app drawer. Once in the Settings, scroll down until you see the ‘Connections’ option and tap it to proceed.
In the Connections menu, look for the ‘WiFi Calling’ option. It may be located near the top of the list, depending on your device settings and software version. Tap on WiFi Calling, and you will see a toggle switch that allows you to turn the feature on or off.
What will happen if I turn off WiFi Calling on my Samsung S21?
If you turn off WiFi Calling on your Samsung S21, your phone will default to using the standard cellular network for voice calls. This means that any calls made or received will rely on your mobile carrier’s signal strength, which may impact your call quality depending on your location. In areas with poor cellular coverage, you might experience dropped calls or interruptions.
Additionally, turning off WiFi Calling may limit your connectivity during situations where WiFi is available but cellular signals are weak. You will no longer be able to use WiFi to make calls, which could affect how you communicate in certain environments such as buildings with thick walls or rural areas with sparse cellular service.
Can I still use mobile data if I turn off WiFi Calling?
Yes, you can still use mobile data on your Samsung S21 even if you turn off WiFi Calling. Disabling this feature does not affect your mobile data usage. You will continue to have access to the internet and other data-dependent services through your cellular network. This means you can stream videos, browse the web, and use apps as usual.
However, remember that you won’t be able to make or receive calls over WiFi once this feature is turned off. If you’re in an area with limited mobile service, you may experience difficulties with calls but can still use data for other purposes.
Will I receive any notifications if WiFi Calling is disabled?
When you disable WiFi Calling on your Samsung S21, you will not receive any direct notifications regarding its status. However, you may notice a change in your call quality or experience if you often relied on WiFi for phone calls. If you’re in an area with poor cellular reception, you might find that calls drop more frequently or that audio quality decreases.
Additionally, if you try to make a call in an area with weak cellular signals, you may see a notification indicating that the call could not connect or is experiencing issues. These indirect clues can alert you to the fact that WiFi Calling is disabled and may prompt you to consider re-enabling it if you often find yourself in such situations.
How can I re-enable WiFi Calling after turning it off?
If you’ve decided to re-enable WiFi Calling on your Samsung S21 after previously turning it off, the process is straightforward. Begin by opening the ‘Settings’ app once again, either through the notification panel or by locating it in your app drawer. Once you’re in the Settings menu, scroll down and select ‘Connections.’
Continuing from there, tap on ‘WiFi Calling’ to access the toggle switch. Simply flip the switch to turn the feature back on. Your Samsung S21 will then allow WiFi Calling for voice calls, enabling you to enjoy improved connectivity in areas where cellular coverage may be lacking.
Does disabling WiFi Calling affect my other settings related to WiFi?
Disabling WiFi Calling on your Samsung S21 does not directly affect other settings related to WiFi functionalities. Your ability to connect to WiFi networks for internet browsing, app usage, and other data services will remain unchanged. You can still receive notifications, browse the web, and use apps while connected to WiFi, as these functions are independent of the WiFi Calling feature.
However, if you rely heavily on WiFi for voice communication due to poor cell coverage, you may notice a decrease in call reliability. To maintain effective usage of WiFi for other services, you might want to consider configuring your network settings appropriately, ensuring a stable connection for data use while being aware of the limitations in call quality without WiFi Calling enabled.
Can turning WiFi Calling off help save battery life on my Samsung S21?
Turning off WiFi Calling may help save some battery life on your Samsung S21, particularly if you frequently find yourself in low signal areas. When WiFi Calling is enabled, your device may continuously search for a stable WiFi connection and use battery power to maintain that connection while attempting calls. In situations where the WiFi signal is weak, it can lead to additional battery drain.
However, the impact on battery life may not be significant for all users. If you typically use your phone in locations with reliable cellular networks, the difference in battery performance when disabling WiFi Calling may be negligible. Ultimately, the extent of battery savings will depend on your usage habits and typical signal strength in your environment.