October 2, 2025: Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has officially launched its WiFi Calling (VoWiFi) service, enabling users to make voice calls without mobile network coverage by using WiFi or broadband connections instead. This free service puts BSNL on par with private telecom operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone-Idea, marking a significant milestone in the state-run operator’s modernization efforts.
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What is BSNL WiFi Calling (VoWiFi)?
Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) allows BSNL customers to make and receive calls through a stable WiFi or broadband network when cellular signals are weak or unavailable. The technology routes calls through BSNL’s network just like regular mobile calls—without requiring any additional apps or charges.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | October 2, 2025 |
| Current Availability | South and West Zone circles |
| Expansion Plans | Nationwide rollout planned |
| Cost | Completely free, no extra charges |
| Compatible Devices | Most modern Android and iPhone models |
As covered in our telecom innovations analysis, WiFi calling represents a crucial advancement for improving connectivity in areas with poor network coverage.
How BSNL WiFi Calling Works
The technology is remarkably simple:
- Connect to WiFi: Your phone connects to any WiFi or broadband network
- Enable VoWiFi: Activate WiFi calling in your phone’s settings
- Make Calls: Calls are automatically routed through BSNL’s network via the internet
- Seamless Experience: Works just like regular cellular calls
No additional apps needed—the feature integrates directly into your phone’s native calling system.
Current Availability and Rollout
Soft Launch Details
The VoWiFi service was soft-launched by Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), as part of BSNL’s 25th-anniversary celebrations.
Geographic Coverage
- Currently Available: South and West Zone circles
- Expansion Timeline: Nationwide rollout planned in coming months
- Infrastructure Support: Over 1 lakh 4G towers installed, with 97,500 more planned
Our BSNL 4G expansion tracker provides detailed state-wise rollout information.
Key Benefits for Users
1. Connectivity in Low-Signal Areas
WiFi calling solves connectivity challenges in:
- Basements and underground locations
- Inside buildings with thick walls
- Rural and remote areas with weak cellular coverage
- Regions with patchy network infrastructure
2. Crystal-Clear Call Quality
VoWiFi typically delivers superior voice quality compared to traditional cellular calls, especially in areas where mobile signals are compromised.
3. Zero Additional Cost
BSNL has confirmed the service is completely free for all subscribers. No extra fees, no hidden charges—just improved connectivity at no additional expense.
4. No App Installation Required
Unlike some third-party calling solutions, VoWiFi works through your phone’s built-in dialer, maintaining a seamless user experience.
Compatible Devices
Most modern smartphones support WiFi calling:
- Android devices: Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Realme, Vivo, Oppo (4G/5G models)
- iPhones: iPhone 6 and newer models
- Other brands: Most smartphones released after 2018
Check our VoWiFi compatible devices guide for comprehensive compatibility information.
How to Enable BSNL WiFi Calling
For Android Users:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network
- Select your BSNL SIM card
- Enable WiFi Calling or VoWiFi
- Connect to a WiFi network and start calling
For iPhone Users:
- Open Settings > Phone > WiFi Calling
- Toggle WiFi Calling on This iPhone to ON
- Follow on-screen prompts to enable
- Connect to WiFi and make calls as usual
Competition and Market Context
Catching Up with Private Operators
- Reliance Jio: Nationwide VoWiFi since 2019
- Bharti Airtel: Pan-India WiFi calling available
- Vodafone-Idea: Select circles coverage
BSNL’s entry into WiFi calling narrows the feature gap with private telecom giants, as detailed in our telecom operator comparison.
Part of Broader Modernization
The VoWiFi launch accompanies other major BSNL upgrades:
- 4G network expansion: 1 lakh+ towers installed
- eSIM services: Recently launched in Mumbai and Tamil Nadu
- 5G planning: Infrastructure upgrades post-4G completion
- IFTV services: Intranet Fiber TV showcased at India Mobile Congress 2024
Strategic Significance
Attracting New Subscribers
BSNL gained approximately 3.6 million new mobile customers between August-October 2024, demonstrating growing confidence in the state-run operator’s modernization efforts.
Competitive Positioning
By offering VoWiFi free of cost while private operators include it as part of premium plans, BSNL creates a compelling value proposition for price-sensitive customers.
Infrastructure Synergy
With BSNL’s extensive Bharat Fiber broadband network, VoWiFi creates natural synergy between mobile and fixed-line services, as explored in our telecom infrastructure analysis.
Technical Advantages
VoLTE Integration
BSNL confirmed that VoLTE services will be activated by default for 4G consumers, requiring no manual USSD code activation.
Network Flexibility
The system automatically switches between cellular and WiFi calling based on signal strength, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Bottom Line
BSNL’s WiFi Calling (VoWiFi) launch represents a significant step in the state-run operator’s digital transformation journey. By providing free WiFi calling in South and West zones with nationwide expansion planned, BSNL addresses a critical pain point—poor indoor and rural connectivity—while competing directly with private telecom giants. For BSNL users, this means crystal-clear calls even in basements, buildings, and remote areas without any extra cost. Combined with ongoing 4G expansion and eSIM rollout, BSNL is steadily modernizing its infrastructure to meet contemporary customer expectations. As the service expands nationwide, millions more users will gain access to reliable communication regardless of cellular signal strength.
Stay updated on BSNL services and telecom developments through our BSNL news section and telecom industry coverage.
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