HowToFixWiFiSimple fixes  •  Better connection
Wifi Guide

Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling? Setup & Device Eligibility

Introduction If you have ever wondered Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling?, you are not alone. Wi-Fi calling has become one of the most requested features among mobile customers, especially for people who live or work in areas with weak cellular coverage

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you have ever wondered Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling?, you are not alone. Wi-Fi calling has become one of the most requested features among mobile customers, especially for people who live or work in areas with weak cellular coverage but reliable internet access. Cricket Wireless, an AT&T subsidiary known for its affordable prepaid plans, has indeed added Wi-Fi calling to its service lineup, but the feature comes with specific requirements around device eligibility, account setup, and network compatibility.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about Cricket Wireless Wi-Fi calling. You will learn whether your plan qualifies, which devices are supported, how to enable the feature on Android and iPhone, troubleshooting tips, and answers to the most common questions customers ask. By the end, you will know exactly whether Wi-Fi calling is right for you and how to get it working on your phone.

Table of Contents

What Is Wi-Fi Calling?

Wi-Fi calling is a feature that lets you make and receive phone calls and text messages over a wireless internet connection instead of relying on traditional cellular towers. When your phone detects a strong Wi-Fi network, it can route your voice calls through that network, which is especially helpful in basements, rural areas, or buildings with thick walls where cellular signals struggle.

The technology works in the background. Once enabled, your phone automatically switches between cellular and Wi-Fi networks based on signal strength. Most users never notice the transition, except that their calls become clearer and more reliable in low-coverage zones.

Wi-Fi calling also supports emergency services in many cases, although carriers often require you to register an emergency address so that 911 responders can locate you accurately.

Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wi-Fi Calling?

The short answer is yes. Cricket Wireless does offer Wi-Fi calling, but it is not available on every device or every plan. The feature is supported on select smartphones that are compatible with AT&T’s network infrastructure, since Cricket runs on AT&T’s towers. If your phone is on Cricket’s approved device list and your plan meets the requirements, you can enable Wi-Fi calling in just a few minutes.

It is worth noting that Cricket’s Wi-Fi calling is designed to work seamlessly with AT&T’s VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling systems. That means call quality is generally high, and handoffs between Wi-Fi and cellular networks are usually smooth. However, because Cricket is a prepaid carrier, some premium features available to postpaid AT&T customers may not be included.

So when someone asks Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling?, the honest answer is: yes, but with conditions. Your device must be eligible, your plan must support it, and you must be connected to a compatible Wi-Fi network.

Which Cricket Plans Are Eligible for Wi-Fi Calling?

Cricket has offered Wi-Fi calling across most of its current unlimited and limited data plans, but availability can vary by region and plan tier. Historically, Wi-Fi calling has been supported on the following types of plans:

  • Cricket Unlimited plans (including Unlimited and Unlimited + 15GB Mobile Hotspot)
  • Cricket Select plans with higher data allowances
  • Some legacy plans that have been grandfathered in

Lower-tier plans with very limited data may not always include Wi-Fi calling, and Cricket occasionally updates its plan lineup. The best way to confirm eligibility is to log in to your Cricket account online or check the plan details in the myCricket app. If Wi-Fi calling is supported, you will see the option in your phone’s settings once the feature is provisioned on your line.

If you are on an older plan that does not support Wi-Fi calling, you may need to switch to a newer plan. Fortunately, Cricket frequently runs promotions that make upgrading affordable.

Device Eligibility for Cricket Wi-Fi Calling

Device eligibility is the biggest hurdle for most Cricket customers. Not every phone sold by Cricket supports Wi-Fi calling, and phones brought from other carriers may not be fully compatible. Cricket maintains an official list of supported devices, and the list changes as new phones are released.

Generally, the following categories of devices support Wi-Fi calling on Cricket:

  • Recent iPhone models (iPhone 6 and newer, running the latest iOS)
  • Recent Samsung Galaxy devices
  • Google Pixel phones
  • Select Motorola and LG models
  • Cricket-branded phones sold directly through Cricket stores

Even if your phone model is on the supported list, it must be running the latest software update. Carriers often push Wi-Fi calling capability through firmware updates, so an outdated operating system can prevent the feature from appearing in your settings.

Another important detail: the phone must be provisioned correctly on Cricket’s network. If you bought your phone unlocked from a third party, you may need to contact Cricket support to ensure your IMEI is registered and Wi-Fi calling is enabled on your line.

Supported Devices Comparison Table

The table below gives a general overview of device categories and their Wi-Fi calling support status on Cricket Wireless. Always verify with Cricket’s official device list for the most current information.

Device Category Examples Wi-Fi Calling Support Notes
Apple iPhone iPhone 6 and newer Yes Requires iOS update and Cricket provisioning
Samsung Galaxy Galaxy S8 and newer Yes Enable via Settings > Connections
Google Pixel Pixel 3 and newer Yes Usually enabled by default on supported builds
Motorola Moto G Power, Moto E series Select models Check Cricket’s official list
Cricket-branded phones Various prepaid models Most newer models Sold with Wi-Fi calling pre-configured
Older / budget phones Pre-2018 devices No Limited network compatibility

Requirements Before You Enable Wi-Fi Calling

Before you dive into settings, make sure you meet all of the following requirements. Skipping any of these can result in the Wi-Fi calling option not appearing or failing to connect.

  • A Cricket Wireless plan that supports Wi-Fi calling
  • A compatible smartphone on Cricket’s approved device list
  • The latest software and carrier updates installed
  • A stable Wi-Fi connection with adequate bandwidth
  • Your phone’s IMEI registered with Cricket’s network
  • Location services enabled for emergency address verification

It is also recommended that you connect to a private, secure Wi-Fi network rather than public hotspots. Public networks can introduce latency and security risks, and some captive portals may block the ports used for Wi-Fi calling.

How to Set Up Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone

Setting up Wi-Fi calling on an iPhone with Cricket Wireless is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Phone.
  3. Select Wi-Fi Calling.
  4. Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to the on position.
  5. You will be prompted to enter or confirm your emergency address. Fill this in accurately.
  6. Agree to the terms and conditions.
  7. Wait for the feature to activate. You may see a “Wi-Fi” indicator next to your carrier name in the status bar.

If the option does not appear, check that your iOS is up to date by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Also verify that your phone number is correctly provisioned with Cricket.

Once enabled, your iPhone will automatically use Wi-Fi calling when cellular signal is weak and a Wi-Fi network is available. You can also choose to prefer Wi-Fi over cellular in the Wi-Fi Calling settings.

How to Set Up Wi-Fi Calling on Android

Android setup varies slightly by manufacturer, but the general process is similar across devices. Here is how to enable Wi-Fi calling on most Android phones with Cricket:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Network & Internet or Connections (depending on your device).
  3. Select Mobile Network or Wi-Fi Calling.
  4. Toggle Wi-Fi Calling to on.
  5. Enter your emergency address when prompted.
  6. Accept the terms and conditions.
  7. Restart your phone if prompted.

On Samsung devices, you may find the option under Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi Calling. On Google Pixel phones, it is often under Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Wi-Fi Calling.

If you do not see the option, ensure your phone is running the latest Android update and that Cricket has provisioned Wi-Fi calling on your line. You can also dial *#*#4636#*#* on some devices to access testing menus, although this is generally not needed for standard setup.

How to Use Wi-Fi Calling Day to Day

Once Wi-Fi calling is enabled, using it is almost invisible. Your phone handles the routing automatically. Here is what to expect in daily use:

  • Calls made over Wi-Fi will show a “Wi-Fi” or “Wi-Fi Calling” indicator in the status bar.
  • Text messages (SMS and MMS) can also be sent and received over Wi-Fi.
  • If you leave the Wi-Fi coverage area mid-call, your phone may hand off to cellular if signal is available.
  • Call quality depends on your internet speed. A minimum of 1 Mbps upload and download is recommended for clear voice calls.
  • Battery life may improve slightly when using Wi-Fi calling in weak cellular areas, since the phone is not constantly searching for a tower signal.

You do not need to do anything special to place a call. Just dial as you normally would, and your phone will choose the best available network.

Does Wi-Fi Calling Cost Extra on Cricket?

In most cases, Wi-Fi calling does not cost extra on Cricket Wireless. Calls and texts made over Wi-Fi are typically billed the same way as regular cellular calls, meaning they count against your plan’s minutes or are unlimited depending on your plan. There are no additional fees to enable the feature itself.

However, there are a few caveats:

  • International Wi-Fi calling rates may apply if you call international numbers.
  • If you are roaming internationally and use Wi-Fi calling to call U.S. numbers, charges may vary based on your plan.
  • Data used for Wi-Fi calling comes from your Wi-Fi network, not your cellular data allowance, so it does not eat into your mobile data cap.

Always review Cricket’s current terms and your specific plan details to confirm any charges that may apply to your usage.

Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Calling Issues

Even with proper setup, you may run into problems. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:

Wi-Fi Calling Option Not Showing

This usually means your device is not on Cricket’s supported list, your software is outdated, or your line has not been provisioned. Update your phone, restart it, and contact Cricket support if the issue persists.

Calls Dropping When Leaving Wi-Fi

This can happen if your cellular signal is too weak to take over. Try enabling “Prefer Wi-Fi” in your settings, or stay within Wi-Fi range during important calls.

Poor Call Quality Over Wi-Fi

Check your internet speed. If your Wi-Fi network is congested or slow, call quality will suffer. Try connecting to a different network or moving closer to your router.

Emergency Address Errors

If you see an error about your emergency address, update it in your phone settings or through your Cricket account. An accurate address is required for 911 service over Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi Calling Turns Off After Update

Major software updates sometimes reset settings. Re-enable Wi-Fi calling after any system update and verify your emergency address.

Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of Wi-Fi calling on Cricket Wireless, follow these tips:

  • Keep your phone’s operating system and carrier settings updated.
  • Use a strong, password-protected Wi-Fi network for better security and call quality.
  • Register an accurate emergency address and update it if you move.
  • Test Wi-Fi calling before relying on it for important calls.
  • Disable Wi-Fi calling temporarily if you experience echo or latency on a particular network.
  • Consider a mesh Wi-Fi system if you have dead zones in your home.
  • Check Cricket’s website periodically for newly supported devices.

These small habits can make a big difference in reliability and call quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling? on all plans?

Not all plans. Wi-Fi calling is generally available on most current Cricket plans, but some lower-tier or legacy plans may not support it. Check your plan details in the myCricket app.

Can I use Wi-Fi calling internationally?

Yes, in many cases you can use Wi-Fi calling while traveling abroad to call U.S. numbers, but charges may apply depending on your plan. International calls to other countries are billed at standard international rates.

Will Wi-Fi calling work on an unlocked phone?

It depends. The phone must be compatible with Cricket’s network and provisioned correctly. Some unlocked phones work perfectly, while others lack the necessary carrier settings.

Does Wi-Fi calling use my data plan?

No. Wi-Fi calling uses your Wi-Fi internet connection, not your cellular data allowance. However, if you are on a metered home internet plan, it will count toward that usage.

Can I send texts over Wi-Fi calling?

Yes. Both SMS and MMS messages can be sent and received over Wi-Fi when the feature is enabled.

Why does my 911 call not work over Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi calling 911 service requires an accurate registered emergency address. If you have not entered one, or if it is outdated, emergency services may not be able to locate you. Always keep this information current.

Is Wi-Fi calling the same as VoLTE?

No. VoLTE uses cellular towers for HD voice calls, while Wi-Fi calling routes calls over a Wi-Fi network. They are complementary technologies and can work together.

Conclusion

So, Does Cricket Wireless Offer Wifi Calling? The answer is a clear yes, provided you have a compatible device and an eligible plan. Cricket’s Wi-Fi calling feature can dramatically improve call quality and reliability in areas with weak cellular coverage, and it comes at no extra cost on most plans.

By following the setup steps for your iPhone or Android device, ensuring your software is up to date, and registering an accurate emergency address, you can enjoy seamless voice and text communication over any reliable Wi-Fi network. If you run into issues, the troubleshooting tips above should help you resolve most common problems quickly.

Whether you are a longtime Cricket customer or considering switching, Wi-Fi calling is a valuable feature worth enabling. Check your device eligibility today, and start enjoying clearer calls wherever you have Wi-Fi.