BSNL launches nationwide VoWiFi service across India

BSNL launches VoWiFi across India

BSNL announced the nationwide rollout of the Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) service across all telecom circles in India. The move brings it on par with private operators Airtel and Jio which have long offered VoWiFi. The service enables subscribers to make and receive voice calls and messages over Wi-Fi, improving connectivity in challenging environments.

VoWiFi rollout details

VoWiFi, also known as Wi-Fi Calling, is now available to all BSNL customers across all telecom circles in India. Its nationwide rollout marks a step in the telecom operator's network modernisation programme, BSNL said in a press note.

VoWiFi is an IMS-based service that supports handovers between mobile networks and Wi-Fi.

As per BSNL, calls are made through the subscriber's existing phone number and dialler app, without the need for any third-party applications. The telecom operator claims it also helps reduce network congestion and is offered free of cost to its subscribers.

Technical specifications

• Service: Voice over Wi-Fi VoWiFi
• Technology: IMS-based with handovers between mobile networks and Wi-Fi
• Usage: Calls and messages over a stable Wi-Fi connection
• Device requirement: No third-party apps required
• Cost: Free for BSNL subscribers
• Availability: Across all BSNL circles in India

BSNL said the rollout is part of its network modernisation programme. The service is expected to improve connectivity in rural and remote areas where mobile coverage is limited and in places with weak mobile signal such as homes, offices, basements, or remote locations.