Indoor Coverage Solutions

Illustration of WiFi and Cellular Service

Cellcom knows that using your phone and other devices indoors is critical.  When rural locations, dense terrain, or buildings make cellular coverage indoors a challenge, Cellcom has solutions that extend your coverage and keep you connected.

Which Solution Will Work for Me?

 

Wi-Fi Calling

If you're having issues with coverage indoors, the first thing to try is Wi-Fi calling.

 

What is Wi-Fi Calling?

When rural location, dense terrain, or buildings create barriers for enough cell signal, but you have a Wi-Fi connection, Wi-Fi Calling can help keep you connected. Enable Wi-Fi Calling to help you make voice calls and send text or picture messages.

Benefits

  • No extra cost: leverage your existing Wi-Fi connection
  • Easy setup: simply turn it on in your phone settings

 

 

How to Set Up  |  FAQs  |  Wi-Fi Calling Tips

Cellular Boosters

If Wi-Fi Calling isn’t the answer to improving your coverage, a booster can help.  Even with one bar of coverage outdoors, a booster can bring that signal inside your home or building.

What are Cellular Boosters?

Cellular boosters operate within your home or business and improves cellular coverage. Boosters are a great solution where there is adequate signal outside of a building but signal is poor inside and where Wi-Fi Calling services are not available.

Benefits

  • No internet needed: A low latency, high speed Wi-Fi connection is not required
  • Set up on your terms: Easy installation instructions included or professional install is available

 

Choosing a Booster  |  Installation  |  Registering a Booster

 

How to Set Up

Enabling Wi-Fi calling can vary by device types, generally:

  • iPhone Users: Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling > Toggle On
  • Android Users: Phone Icon > Settings > Wi-Fi Calling Toggle On

Your Wi-Fi Calling Checklist

There are a few requirements for Wi-Fi Calling:

  • A Wi-Fi connection: A high-speed internet connection is not critical, but a connection speed of 2Mbps or faster is recommended.
  • The latest Cellcom SIM card: Customers can stop into a Cellcom location or call Customer Care to obtain a new SIM. There are two ways to determine if you have the necessary SIM card:
    • eSIM: If your device has an eSIM activated, you have the latest Cellcom SIM card.
    • Physically: Remove your SIM card. If the SIM card is labeled “Mobile 2.0”, your SIM card is Wi-Fi capable. If the card says “Mobile”, visit a Cellcom location to request a new SIM card.
  • Device Capability: Most devices are Wi-Fi Calling capable. You can check the specifics of your device on cellcom.com. Some older models may require a software updated. Make sure you are on the latest software to enable Wi-Fi calling.
  • For business customers, it's important that the facility has good Wi-Fi coverage everywhere. This may not be as recognizable during a data session, but gaps in connectivity will impact calls. Nsight's IT Services can help businesses optimize internet service throughout the building.

Important Emergency Information

When you enable Wi-Fi Calling, you'll need to accept the terms and enter an Emergency 911 address. If you turn on Wi-Fi Calling and cellular service isn't available, emergency calls might use Wi-Fi Calling. Your emergency address may be used to aid response efforts when you place an emergency call over Wi-Fi. You should plan to update this address if you're using Wi-Fi Calling when you travel. Address changes can be completed in the same settings menu used to enable Wi-Fi Calling.

 

 

Tips to Enhance Your Wi-Fi Calling Experience

  • When placing or receiving a call, turn off items that use a large amount of bandwidth, such as music or video streaming.
  • Contact your Internet Service Provider about optimal router configurations to ensure the best call quality. 

 

 

FAQs

Will my phone automatically select Wi-Fi Calling?

Yes. Once you enable Wi-Fi Calling, your device will automatically determine when it is best to use cellular signals or Wi-Fi for calls and messages. Your device may use your home Wi-Fi, or other Wi-Fi networks you connect to, such as at work, hotels, or restaurants.

How is Wi-Fi Calling different than a Cellular Booster?

Wi-Fi Calling uses your home internet product to enhance your calling and texting experience. There is no need to buy a device to connect into the home network.

How do I know if I have an adequate Wi-Fi connection for Wi-Fi Calling?

You do not need a high-speed internet connection to take advantage of Wi-Fi Calling. Here are two simple tests to determine if your Wi-Fi connection is suitable for Wi-Fi Calling.

  • If you have a positive voice experience when you're on a Zoom or Teams call (or other similar virtual platform), Wi-Fi Calling is probably a good option for you.
  • A Wi-Fi speed of 2 Mbps or greater is generally recommended for Wi-Fi Calling. To perform a speed test, download the free FCC Speed Test app available in the Google Play Store for Android devices or in the Apple App Store for iOS devices.

Is Wi-Fi Calling Secure?

All voice traffic on Cellcom's network is securely encrypted. You also need to consider the security of your Wi-Fi network. Talk to your Internet Service Provider about best practices for keeping your home Wi-Fi network safe and protecting your connected devices, including computers, cell phones, tablets, voice assistants, IP cameras, smart TVs, and connected appliances.

 

Choosing a Cellular Booster

Cellcom has partnered with Uniden to provide the following Booster options:

Uniden Cellular Booster U65C Kit
Boost coverage for up to 3,000 sq. ft.
For as low as
$13.84/mo.
*Flex 36
Product Details
Uniden Cellular Booster U60C Kit
Boost coverage for up to 1,500 sq. ft.
For as low as
$11.06/mo.
*Flex 36
Product Details

Booster Installation

If you are using a cellular booster to enhance your cellular service, please click here to register.

Proper installation of your cellular booster is key to a good experience and improving your coverage. Let's help you get set up.

Installation Instructions