For years, BSNL users have dreamed of a simple solution to the frustrating problem of zero mobile signal inside their homes or in remote corners of the country. That dream is now a reality. On January 1, 2026, the state-owned telecom giant officially launched its BSNL WiFi calling service nationwide, and it’s completely free .
No more shouting into your phone hoping the other person hears a garbled ‘Hello? Hello?’ from your bathroom or basement. This move isn’t just a feature update; it’s a strategic leap to modernize BSNL’s network and directly compete with private players like Jio and Airtel, who have offered similar services for a while .
Table of Contents
- What is BSNL WiFi Calling (VoWiFi)?
- How to Enable BSNL WiFi Calling on Your Phone
- Is Your Phone Compatible with BSNL VoWiFi?
- BSNL WiFi Calling vs. Jio & Airtel: What’s the Difference?
- Key Benefits of Using BSNL WiFi Calling
- Conclusion: A Game-Changer for BSNL Subscribers
What is BSNL WiFi Calling (VoWiFi)?
In simple terms, BSNL WiFi calling, also known as Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi), lets you make and receive your regular phone calls and SMS using any available WiFi network instead of your cellular signal. It’s not a separate app or a new number—it’s your existing BSNL number working its magic over your home, office, or any public WiFi.
The technology behind it is quite sophisticated, using IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) to deliver high-definition voice calls over an IP connection . But for you, the user, the experience is seamless. When your phone detects a weak or absent cellular signal but a strong WiFi connection, it automatically switches your call to the WiFi network without you even noticing .
How to Enable BSNL WiFi Calling on Your Phone
The best part? There’s no complicated setup or hidden fees. The service is entirely free for all BSNL subscribers. To get started, you just need to turn it on in your phone’s settings. Here’s the general process:
- Ensure your phone is connected to a stable WiFi network.
- Go to your phone’s Settings.
- Look for Network & Internet or Connections.
- Find the Wi-Fi Calling or Voice over Wi-Fi option (the exact name varies by manufacturer).
- Toggle the switch to On.
Once enabled, you’ll usually see a small ‘Wi-Fi’ or ‘VoWiFi’ icon next to your signal bar, indicating that the service is active and ready to use .
Is Your Phone Compatible with BSNL VoWiFi?
According to BSNL’s official announcement, the BSNL VoWiFi service is supported on most modern smartphones . This includes a wide range of 4G and 5G devices from major brands like Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, and Vivo.
If you’re unsure about your specific model, the safest course of action is to check the settings menu for the Wi-Fi Calling option as described above. You can also visit your nearest BSNL Customer Service Centre for assistance in confirming compatibility .
BSNL WiFi Calling vs. Jio & Airtel: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to note that BSNL’s current VoWiFi service is a native, integrated feature, just like what Jio and Airtel offer today. This is different from BSNL’s older ‘Wings’ service, which was a separate app-based solution with its own number .
Now, BSNL is on a level playing field. All three major operators provide seamless call handover between cellular and WiFi networks. The key competitive advantage for BSNL lies in its extensive landline and broadband infrastructure, which could translate to more stable and reliable WiFi networks for its own users, especially in areas where its mobile towers are sparse.
Key Benefits of Using BSNL WiFi Calling
The nationwide rollout of free WiFi calling BSNL offers a host of advantages:
- Crystal-Clear Calls Indoors: Say goodbye to dropped calls in your home, office, or basement. As long as you have WiFi, you have a reliable voice connection .
- No Extra Cost: The service is completely free. You’ll be charged your standard call and SMS rates, with no additional fees or data usage from your cellular plan .
- Reduced Network Congestion: By offloading voice traffic from its cellular towers to WiFi networks, BSNL can improve overall network performance for all its users, especially in densely populated areas .
- Uses Your Existing Number: There’s no need to download a third-party app or remember a new number. It’s your trusted BSNL number, working better than ever .
For more on the general benefits of this technology, you can refer to this comprehensive explanation from a leading telecom provider: What are the benefits of VoWiFi? .
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for BSNL Subscribers
The launch of BSNL WiFi calling is a significant milestone for the company and its vast subscriber base. It directly addresses a long-standing pain point and brings BSNL’s service offerings in line with the modern expectations of today’s mobile users. By providing a simple, free, and effective solution for indoor and remote connectivity, BSNL has taken a major step forward in its network modernization journey . If you’re a BSNL user, there’s no reason not to enable this feature today and finally enjoy uninterrupted calls from anywhere your WiFi reaches.
Sources
- Times of India: BSNL offers WiFi calling services
- Business Standard: BSNL rolls out Wi-Fi calling nationwide
- Dialog Axiata PLC: What are the benefits of VoWiFi?
- Digital Information World: What is VoWifi? How To Enable & Use WiFi Calling
- , , Press Information Bureau (PIB): BSNL Launches Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) Services Nationwide
- The Financial Express: BSNL rolls out Voice over WiFi services nationwide
- India Today: BSNL launches VoWiFi: Free calls over Wi-Fi
- Reddit Discussion: VoWifi experience on Jio
