Samsung Galaxy Mega and S4 Mini users will enjoy free Wi-Fi calling, courtesy of Sprint, albeit only for those within the United States.
The free service allows subscribers to use their existing wireless networks, offering improved data, messaging and voice features where there is limited or no Sprint coverage, and essentially enabling unlimited domestic messaging and voice calls.
Under Sprint plans, text messages and voice minutes are counted toward a monthly allotment of activity. However, with the new service, domestic calls and text messaging are free.
Taking Advantage of Wi-Fi
Wireless carriers have used Wi-Fi to offload information traffic for a while now, with AT&T building large Wi-Fi hotspots in crowded areas to relieve congestion on its network. T-Mobile, however, was the first major operator to launch a voice service with Wi-Fi to give voice network extended coverage.
Wi-Fi strategically makes use of the unlicensed wireless spectrum, but is not without its challenges. Short-range coverage means users who are mobile must hand off between different networks. What's more, using an unlicensed spectrum means airwaves can become congested. As a result, it is common to have interference among various Wi-Fi networks.
Enhancing Network Coverage
Sprint's move toward harnessing Wi-Fi is a slow one given that it will only be made available to two smartphones initially. Those who own either device will receive an update that enables a free Wi-Fi feature on their handsets that can be activated after installation by tapping the Wi-Fi calling icon located alongside other apps on the device.
However, there is hope yet for the rest of Sprint's customer base as the carrier plans to expand this Wi-Fi feature to other devices throughout this year.
