One feature that T-Mobile has become known for is its Wi-Fi calling support, which allows consumers with compatible hardware to conduct voice calls over a Wi-Fi connection rather than the cellular network. While it's not a feature that we hear about very often, it's something that can come in handy in areas with weak coverage. Apparently Sprint has recognized just how useful Wi-Fi calling can be, as a newly-leaked document has revealed that Hesse and Co. will soon add the feature to its repertoire of services.
According to information shared by Android Central, Sprint is planning to enable Wi-Fi Calling on the Samsung Galaxy S4 mini and Galaxy Mega through software updates. New devices running Android 4.2 or higher are also expected to receive Wi-Fi Calling support.
When it comes to using the feature itself, Sprint customers will need to acquire a Wi-Fi Calling-compatible handset and then activate the feature on Sprint's website. It's said that Wi-Fi Calling won't cost anything extra for Sprint subscribers and that calls conducted over Wi-Fi won't count against a customer's bucket of minutes. However, it's also worth noting that Sprint's Wi-Fi Calling can't hand off calls between Wi-Fi and CDMA connections and that calls can only be made within the U.S., U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. The leaked docs also indicate that outgoing Wi-Fi calls will require a CDMA signal for 911 services.
One important detail that's missing in today's leak is the date on which Sprint intends to flip the switch on its Wi-Fi Calling support. The functionality definitely appears to be coming to the Now Network soon, though, which is exciting news for Sprint customers, especially those that live or work in an area with weak service. Here's to hoping that Wi-Fi Calling goes live soon and that it becomes a regular feature on Sprint's Android phones in the near future.
Via Android Central
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