iD Mobile (Dixons Carphone) today claims to have become the first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in the United Kingdom to introduce Wi-Fi Calling, which allows customers with no 3G or 4G data connection to make or receive calls (and send texts) via WiFi.
All of the primary mobile operators have been offering Wi-Fi Calling for awhile, which is supported by a growing number of handsets (e.g. the past few generations of iPhone); on some Smartphones you may need to manually enable the feature before it becomes usable. Technically speaking Freedom Pop and BTMobile also have Wi-Fi calling but both are different due to their dependency upon an app.
At launch iD, which makes use of the Three UK network, claims that more than 100,000 of their customers already have compatible devices.
Paul Walsh, Head of Operations at iD Mobile, said:
“We’re continually looking at ways in which we can improve our customers’ experience and Wi-Fi Calling is the latest development. No network has 100% coverage and most of us have experienced a time where we’ve failed to get signal, whether that be a basement coffee shop or a room or two at home – this is where Wi-Fi Calling saves the day.”
Last year also saw the operator introduce 4G calling (VoLTE) and a simplified range of tariffs that gave all of their customers on SIM-only and Handset plans the ability to roll over their unused data, cap their bills and roam in 50 destinations.
FreedomPop has done this for years.
Perhaps you missed this bit:
“different due to their dependency upon an app”
FreedomPop only allows data usage without their app.
@Watchman
I actually did miss it when I made the comment, but I noticed it straight away. I couldn’t see where to edit or delete the comment. Apologies.
Anyone considering signing up to iD Mobile should do themselves a favour and check the reviews on Trust Pilot first.
Worst. Mobile. Network. Ever.
The comment about BT moboile via the app – this is linking your landline up to your mobile – called BT Smart talk. Has no relation to your BT Mobile account. BT Mobile customers are praying for the day they can use both 4G Calling and WiFi Calling, like the parent brand EE allows.