BSNL’s New VoWiFi Feature Lets You Call Over Wi-Fi Without Network Coverage
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), India’s state-owned telecom operator, has introduced a major upgrade for its users — Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) service. This new feature allows customers to make and receive calls using a Wi-Fi connection, even when there’s no mobile network signal. With this launch, BSNL joins the ranks of private telecom players like Jio, Airtel, and Vi, who already offer Wi-Fi calling services.
Bridging the Connectivity Gap
One of the biggest challenges in India’s telecom landscape has been poor network connectivity, especially in remote and rural regions. BSNL’s new VoWiFi feature aims to change that. The service enables users to make calls through a Wi-Fi network, ensuring uninterrupted voice communication even in areas where mobile signals are weak or completely unavailable.
Whether you’re in a basement, a thick-walled building, or a hilly region with poor reception, BSNL’s Wi-Fi Calling makes sure your calls go through seamlessly — no dropped calls, no static, and no extra cost.
Completely Free for All BSNL Users
In a welcome move, BSNL has confirmed that the VoWiFi service is absolutely free. Users won’t be charged any additional fees for making calls over Wi-Fi. Calls made through this feature will be treated just like regular voice calls on your existing plan. The company officially announced this on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, emphasizing that the service is part of BSNL’s ongoing effort to enhance communication accessibility for every Indian.
This initiative reflects BSNL’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring affordable connectivity, particularly in regions where mobile networks struggle.
How BSNL’s VoWiFi Works
VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) works by routing voice calls through a Wi-Fi or broadband connection instead of relying on mobile towers. To use this service, users need a smartphone that supports Wi-Fi calling. Most modern Android and iOS phones come with this feature, which can be enabled from the “Network” or “SIM settings” menu.
Once Wi-Fi calling is turned on and connected to a Wi-Fi network, the phone will automatically switch to VoWiFi whenever the mobile network is weak. You’ll see a small Wi-Fi icon next to the call symbol, indicating that your call is being made through Wi-Fi instead of the regular network.
Improved Call Quality and Reliability
The VoWiFi feature not only ensures connectivity but also enhances voice quality. Since Wi-Fi networks are often more stable than cellular connections, users can expect clearer audio, fewer call drops, and a smoother calling experience overall.
It’s particularly useful in situations where you have access to high-speed Wi-Fi but no mobile coverage — such as in offices, basements, or densely built areas.
Part of BSNL’s Bigger Digital Push
BSNL’s VoWiFi rollout is part of a larger effort to modernize its telecom infrastructure. Alongside this service, the company is expanding its 4G network nationwide, with over one lakh mobile towers already installed and nearly 97,500 more planned in the coming months.
These upgrades are part of BSNL’s 25th-anniversary celebrations and its ongoing 4G and eSIM expansion. Recently, the company also launched 4G and eSIM services in Mumbai after successful rollouts in Tamil Nadu, showing its renewed focus on upgrading to next-generation technologies.
Soft Launch and Availability
The VoWiFi service was soft-launched on October 2, 2025, by Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). For now, the feature is available in select South and West Zone circles, but BSNL plans to extend coverage to other regions soon. Once the rollout is complete, customers across India will be able to enjoy the benefits of seamless Wi-Fi calling.
Why It Matters
With the launch of VoWiFi, BSNL is catching up with private telecom giants and reaffirming its position in India’s fast-evolving digital ecosystem. The move not only brings convenience to millions of users but also highlights BSNL’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity.
By combining the power of Wi-Fi and mobile technology, the company is helping bridge the urban-rural connectivity gap and ensuring that no Indian is left disconnected.
Key Takeaways
- Service Name: BSNL VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi)
- Availability: Currently in select South and West Zone circles
- Cost: Completely free for all BSNL users
- Requirement: VoWiFi-supported smartphone and active Wi-Fi connection
- Benefit: Make and receive calls without mobile network coverage
