Google Pixel 6a WiFi Calling and SMS over WiFi

[Wiggy13]

Hi
I use a PAYG Big Value Bundle and am thinking about upgrading to a Google Pixel 6a.
Will this phone allow WiFi Calling and SMS over WiFi?
The list of compatable hones here https://www.vodafone.co.uk/network/calling-features/wi-fi-calling seems to be out of date and only goes as far as the Google Pixel 5

[Mark]

Hey @Wiggy13 The Pixel 6a hasn't been added to our compatible phone list just yet. When it is, our online device guides will show full instructions on setting our WiFi Calling service up. At the moment we only offer instructions on Google handsets up to the Pixel 6.

[pix6a]

Pixel 6a is a popular phone for well over a year, and sold by Vodafone on contract and PAYG. Can Vodafone be persuaded to enable WiFi calling and VoLTE. It can't be that difficult for Vodafone to set up. Is there any way to encourage Vodafone do this? Surely people will choose other networks instead otherwise.

[stevie_b1]

Found this thread and I have a Pixel 6a on Voda network. So its 2024 now.  I've been sent an email about 3G switch off with recommendations to enable Wi-Fi Calling and 4G Calling but I can’t on the Pixel 6a on Vodafone.

Is there any planned fix for this? Is it really difficult for this phone compared to the other Pixels? I'm struggling to understand the technicalities if I'm honest. 

[Lucy_F]

Hi @stevie_b1 You can check your devices IMEI via our 4G Calling compatibility checker here. As soon as any changes are made we'll be sure to update our pages on 4G Calling, and add a device guide. 

[stevie_b1]

Hi @Lucy_F  - I'm aware of your checker and self help tool, but why no Pixel 6a support ?? Thats what I'm trying to find out.

Its been omitted from the supported phone list for over a year. The phone supports WiFi calling and VoLTE, but ever since switching to Vodafone, I've not seen any movement from Vodafone to add it as a supported device. 

[Janey]

Thanks for getting back to us @stevie_b1 On your phone, please tap the phone icon then the three dots in the top right corner. Then go to Settings>Calls. Can you see a WiFi Calling option there? We can certainly speak with our Mobile Tech team and confirm if it's an option for your model. Please pop our team a message on the channels found here and we'll take a closer look. Just let them know you've posted here too.

[stevie_b1]

Will do. I'm on Android 14, Security update 5th January 2024, Build UQ1A.240105.002

There are no WiFi calling settings. I wonder if there are OTA settings you can send. I see the Pixel 6 is supported in your list, but the Pixel 6a is not. 

Will message on he channel link. 

[pix6a]

Support for Pixel 6a does need to be added. It should be easy for Vodafone to set up.

@stevie_b1 Do please post here what happens on this.