Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has activated Voice over Wi‑Fi, commonly known as VoWiFi or Wi‑Fi Calling, for all its customers nationwide. The Ministry of Communications confirmed the rollout on New Year’s Day, saying the service is available across every telecom circle and carries no additional call charges.
VoWiFi enables voice calls and text messages to be routed over a Wi‑Fi connection, delivering clearer and more reliable communication in locations where mobile signals are weak. Typical use cases include homes, offices, basements and remote villages where a stable broadband link, including BSNL Bharat Fiber, is present.
BSNL VoWiFi rollout brings Wi‑Fi calling to all users
The IMS‑based service integrates with a handset’s native dialler so customers make and receive calls using their existing mobile number without downloading third‑party apps. The underlying technology supports seamless handovers between Wi‑Fi and mobile networks, allowing calls to continue uninterrupted when a user moves between coverage zones.
According to the Ministry of Communications, the service is supported on most modern smartphones and can be enabled through handset settings. BSNL said customers uncertain about compatibility can visit a customer service centre or ring the helpline on 18001503 for assistance.
BSNL has emphasised that VoWiFi will be offered free of cost, with calls billed as if they were regular mobile calls and no separate Wi‑Fi call charges applied. The operator expects the facility to ease congestion on its mobile network by offloading voice traffic onto broadband where possible.
Officials highlighted the particular benefit for rural and underserved regions. Where mobile coverage remains patchy, a local broadband connection can now provide reliable voice services. This will help homes and small businesses maintain connectivity in areas that have historically struggled with mobile signal strength.
The VoWiFi rollout also forms a component of BSNL’s wider network modernisation programme. The ministry noted that a pilot project for BSNL’s 5G services has been completed and that trials to upgrade 4G infrastructure are under way. The operator’s move to enable Wi‑Fi calling is positioned as a practical near‑term improvement while broader upgrades continue.
Industry analysts say nationwide VoWiFi can improve user experience and support digital adoption by reducing instances of dropped calls and poor voice quality. For operators, the technology presents an opportunity to manage traffic more efficiently and to extend service reach without immediate changes to radio network footprint.
For customers, activation is straightforward. Users should check that their device supports Wi‑Fi Calling and then enable the feature in the phone’s network or call settings. If the option does not appear, a visit to a BSNL service centre or a call to the helpline will resolve compatibility or provisioning queries.
BSNL’s announcement represents a tangible step in enhancing everyday connectivity for millions of subscribers and signals the operator’s intent to modernise its service offerings as it prepares for next‑generation networks.
Key Takeaways:
- BSNL VoWiFi rollout brings Wi‑Fi calling to all BSNL subscribers across every telecom circle in India.
- The IMS‑based service allows calls and messages over Wi‑Fi at no extra charge, improving coverage in homes, offices and remote areas.
- Service supports seamless handover between Wi‑Fi and mobile networks and is compatible with most modern smartphones.
- Launch forms part of BSNL’s network modernisation ahead of an imminent 5G launch and 4G upgrades.
