AT&T Wi-Fi calling on Android continues rally away from cellular

By Chris Burns/June 15, 2016 10:01 am EST

The end of cellular phone call service is coming. AT&T's Wi-Fi calling and text messaging is the next step towards that goal. While it may not be the intent of mobile device carriers to move completely away from cellular service, that is indeed the trend. AT&T's latest move is to enable Wi-Fi Calling on "select Android devices" – for now that includes the LG G4 and a variety of iPhone devices only.

AT&T users who wish to use Wi-Fi calling will need three things. The first is a compatible device – that means an LG G4, for now. The next thing they'll need is a postpaid wireless account ready to use HD Voice. They'll also need a Wi-Fi internet connection.

AT&T isn't the only carrier with Wi-Fi calling, but they may be the most "official", as they've made readily clear.

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Wi-Fi calls with AT&T are based "on the number you are calling or messaging." If you're on Wi-Fi and a US AT&T member, calling any other US member of AT&T is free of charge. If, however, you call a non-US number with Wi-Fi calling, you'll be charged accordingly.

Wi-Fi calling between numbers of US AT&T origin is free, despite the country either of the devices is currently in (on vacation, for example). AT&T suggests that "Wi-Fi Calling can be used in the Domestic Coverage Area (U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands) and from most international countries."

Users with AT&T are able to make calls to domestic numbers with Wi-Fi calling and receive calls with "no additional charge and no impact on voice call airtime usage." If you call an international number, normal "rates from your calling plan" or "international long distance package" will apply.

Text messages may be sent and received over Wi-Fi, but normal text messaging rates will still apply. Calls to "premium numbers" like 411 will be "billed at standard premium rates" on Wi-Fi calling.

Wi-Fi calling is enabled with AT&T on the LG G4, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and iPhone SE. Now if only everything with Wi-Fi connectivity was free.