Wifi calling using Satellite Internet

[billdanderson]

Hi, we live miles from anywhere so can only get Satellite internet access. This is limited to 40GB per month so we have to be careful not to use too much. We want to upgrade to a phone/package with "WiFi Calling" as our phone signal is poor and this would help us to make sure we don't miss any calls.

Does anyone know whether WiFi Calling uses a fairly small amount of data or does it constantly look for a possible phone signal which might eat up data very quickly?

Many Thanks

Bill

[BandOfBrothers]

Hi @billdanderson

In regards to Vodafone Calling Over Wifi two first things to check are that you are on an eligible Tariff, and using an accepted phone model. 

"To take advantage of Wi-Fi Calling, you need:

A Pay monthly Red or Red Value Bundle, Red+ or Business Premier*

A compatible device:

iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus or iPhone SE.

A Samsung Galaxy A3 (2016), A5 (2016), S6, S6 edge, S7 or S7 edge bought directly from Vodafone at one of our stores, online or by phone through our customer services team"

Link > Vodafone Calling over Wifi

More information in > wi-fi-calling-is-coming-make-phone-calls-through-any-wi-fi-network-with-vodafone-uk.

It's not designed to work over Data but connects over a Wifi Connection. It should kick in when / if mobile network signal stops. 

[nikiandemma]

I don't believe it would use that much data at all, the calls may be High Definition which means they'd be slightly clearer if you were speaking to another person using a similar device but it wouldn't use more data than a standard VoIP call. There would be some regular background data 'pinging' but again they'll be a matter of kilobytes and nothing significant. This back and forth pinging would only be so Vodafone knows where to route incoming calls and texts to get to you (i.e via the satellite).
Another thing to check is that the satellite broadband provider supplies you with a UK IP address. Failing this may result as you being seen as roaming outside the U.K. and additional charges may occur

[billdanderson]

Many thanks for your advice
Bill