Local mobile operator Mobile Communication Company of Iran is now offering WiFi calling services.
WiFi calling is a technology that enables smartphone users to make calls over a wireless Internet connection rather than using the traditional mobile network. It can also be used to talk and text from indoor locations where it is hard for cellular signals to reach.
The service, dubbed ‘TelFi’, was initially unveiled in October and was tested in November, IRNA reported.
The service operates through an application. TelFi’s Android app can be downloaded from the MCI website. The iOS version is being developed and will be released in the near future.
WiFi calling can benefit those traveling overseas because instead of relying on costly roaming services they can make relatively low-cost calls from wherever they have access to a WiFi connection.
For instance, MCI subscribers using roaming services in Sweden pay 121,000 rials ($3.02) per minute. With TelFi the cost will be 600 rials ($0.015) for each minute.
After installing the app, users simply dial the number they want to contact on the application, but instead of connecting to a traditional mobile network antenna the app connects to a WiFi router.
MTN-Irancell, the second largest mobile operator in Iran, unveiled a similar service in October but it has not been implemented so far.