Wi-Fi calling on Mi-Fi

[olifran]

Hi,

If I purchase a Vodafone Mi-fi dongle, can I use it to make wi-fi calls (with EE).

Thanks

Chris.

[BandOfBrothers]

Hi,

A good question. 

I've not personally used one that way but I'm not able to see why it wouldn't work. 

[AnnS]

Hi @olifran

When you purchase the MiFi dongle, you will be connected to the Vodafone network for getting online with internet access.  You would be unable to use WiFi calling from a MiFi device.

If you are wanting WiFi calling, you will need a compatable phone to be able to use the service.

There is further information on WiFi calling from Vodafone below.

WiFi calling

[olifran]

Thanks,

Im not sure you get what I mean. I want to tether my iphone 7 to the mi-fi dongle to make calls.

Just as I would if I was making them through my wi-fi at home.

[Nabs]

@olifran I can't think of any reason this wouldn't work. Assuming the data connection is strong enough there shouldn't be any issues

[BandOfBrothers]

I agree @Nabs

The phone just should see the device as wifi and connect.

[olifran]

Thanks.

One of the lads here at work is bringing his mi-fi in tomorrow and im going to test it. Will report back.

[john32]

I think the latency inherent to connecting via a mobile network will prevent WiFi calling being enabled.

https://opensignal.com/blog/2014/03/10/lte-latency-how-does-it-compare-to-other-technologies/

John

[Nabs]

Assuming its an LTE or very strong 3.5G connection the latency shouldnt be a problem. Anything less and youre probably going to have issues.

[olifran]

Well I tried it this morning. Friend has his Mi-fi with vodafone and a full 4G signal.

I had my EE phone with Wi-fi calling enabled. Logged on to the Mi-Fi and the option for Wi-fi calling did not display. I then turned off my mobile data completely, so to force it to 'no service', still no option for wi-fi calling.

So looks like I will be leaving EE (who are otherwise good in all other aspects and the coverage is good anywhere other than my office).