Optus switches on Wi-Fi Calling

Optus has flicked the switch on native Wi-Fi Calling, allowing postpaid subscribers with a compatible device to make calls over a wireless network without the need for any additional software. Also known as Voice over Wi-Fi, the idea is that you can fallback on your home or office Wi-Fi to make calls and send text messages when you've got limited mobile coverage.

The Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are the first two phones to support Wi-Fi Calling on Optus, although only handsets purchased directly through Optus are able to use the functionality. Optus is looking to enable Wi-Fi calling for other devices. In the meantime, the telco has an app called "WiFi Talk" for other devices (iOS and Android) that provides similar functionality,

If you're making Wi-Fi calls or sending texts through an Optus broadband connection, the service is data-free.

Telstra launched a similar solution toward the end of last year, but as it stands, the Samsung Galaxy S6 is the only compatible device.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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