BSNL launches nationwide VoWiFi service, allowing users to make calls over WiFi for better coverage and uninterrupted communication.
Happy New Year, 2026! While most of us were busy with resolutions and celebrations, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) was busy delivering a massive technological milestone. In a move that signals a bold new era for the state-run telco, BSNL has officially rolled out its Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) services nationwide starting January 1.
For years, BSNL subscribers have often felt left behind by the features offered by private giants like Jio and Airtel. But with this nationwide launch, BSNL isn’t just catching up—it’s positioning itself as a premium connectivity provider for the “last mile.”
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What is BSNL VoWiFi (Wi-Fi Calling)?
If you’ve ever found yourself in a “mobile dead zone”—like a basement, a thick-walled apartment, or a remote farmhouse—you know the frustration of seeing “No Service” on your screen. Voice over WiFi, also known as Wi-Fi Calling, is the solution to that exact problem.
Instead of relying on a cellular tower miles away, your phone uses your local Wi-Fi connection (like BSNL Bharat Fiber or any other broadband) to place and receive high-definition calls and SMS.
How It Works:
VoWiFi is built on an IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) platform. This means it doesn’t just “use the internet”; it creates a secure bridge between your Wi-Fi and BSNL’s core network. One of the most impressive features of this rollout is the seamless handover: if you start a call on your home Wi-Fi and walk out the door, the call automatically transitions to BSNL’s 4G or 5G mobile network without dropping.
Why This is a Game-Changer for 2026
The nationwide rollout isn’t just about “better calls.” It’s about digital inclusion.
- Crystal Clear Audio: VoWiFi offers significantly higher voice quality compared to traditional cellular calls. It eliminates the “robotic” voices and call drops common in low-signal areas.
- No Extra Charges: BSNL has confirmed that VoWiFi is completely free. Calls made over Wi-Fi are treated as regular calls and deducted from your existing plan’s minutes.
- Perfect for Rural India: Since BSNL has a massive footprint in rural regions via its FTTH (Fiber-to-the-Home) services, villagers with weak mobile towers can now use their broadband to stay connected.
- No Third-Party Apps: Unlike WhatsApp or Skype calls, VoWiFi uses your standard phone dialer and your existing mobile number.
How to Activate BSNL Wi-Fi Calling on Your Device
Most modern smartphones (manufactured after 2021) are compatible with BSNL’s VoWiFi. To get started, follow these simple steps:
For Android Users:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select your BSNL SIM.
- Look for Wi-Fi Calling and toggle the switch to On.
For iPhone Users:
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data.
- Tap on Wi-Fi Calling.
- Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to On.
Note: Once active, you’ll see a small “VoWiFi” or “Wi-Fi” icon next to the signal bars at the top of your screen.
The Road to Modernization: 4G and 5G
This launch comes on the heels of BSNL’s massive infrastructure upgrade. By collaborating with local partners like TCS, Tejas Networks, and C-DOT, BSNL has deployed an indigenous 4G stack that is “5G-ready.”
As BSNL aims to upgrade all its sites to 5G by mid-2026, the introduction of VoWiFi serves as the perfect bridge, ensuring that coverage is never an issue for its 100-million-plus subscriber base.
Final Thoughts
BSNL’s New Year gift is a loud and clear message: the “National Carrier” is back in the race. Whether you’re in a high-rise office in Mumbai or a remote village in Odisha, clear communication is now just a Wi-Fi connection away.
Is your device ready for the switch? If you’re facing issues or want to check your specific model’s compatibility, you can call the BSNL helpline at 1800-150-3 or visit your nearest customer service center.