Wi-Fi calling in South Africa

Among the new features that Apple announced for the latest version of its mobile operating system, iOS 8, is Wi-Fi calling.

According to reports about the forthcoming feature, Wi-Fi calling is something that has been available to Android users on T-Mobile in the United States for some time already.

In essence it lets you extend your network’s voice coverage onto a broadband network via Wi-Fi.

It also offers additional benefits to international travellers on T-Mobile who can make and receive calls over Wi-Fi as if they were not roaming internationally.

When local networks were asked whether they plan to support Wi-Fi calling, Vodacom said that they are investigating it but have nothing specific to share at this stage.

MTN SA’s Mike Fairon, head of products and solutions, said that they are planning the test scenarios around this feature in conjunction with Apple.

“Based on the outcome of these tests and once the software becomes available, MTN will be better positioned to make the necessary decisions on how to support this feature,” Fairon said.

Once everything has been finalised MTN will be in a position to comment on the specifics of what the pricing structure of Wi-Fi calling would look like on its network, he added.

Cell C and Telkom Mobile were asked whether they plan to support Wi-Fi calling but did not respond by the time of publication.

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