How to Text Using Wi-Fi

text-using-wifi

Texting is a staple of how we communicate and it’s even preferable to phone calls for most people these days—but what happens when you’re in an area with poor cell service? Fortunately, there are still ways to text using wifi, and it works across a variety of devices and apps.

For iPhone lovers or Android fans, or if you’re just looking for a more private way to chat, here’s how to text using wifi—no cell connection needed.

Most mobile carriers provide a wifi call and text option as part of a standard plan, meaning that you can switch to wifi if you’re out of network. Just make sure that the option is toggled on.

Enable Wi-Fi Calling:

  • iPhone: Settings > Phone > Wifi Calling 
  • Android: Settings > Connections > Wifi Calling

iMessage (iPhone, iPad, Apple)

If you’re living in the Apple ecosystem, you might already know that iMessage is one of the simplest ways to text over wifi. In fact, your device automatically switches to wifi when any cellular service is weak or unavailable, allowing you to still send messages, photos, and videos to other Apple users.

Enable iMessage for WiFiTexting:

  • Settings > Messages
  • Toggle on iMessage

If you’re connected to wifi, iMessage will default to sending texts via your Apple ID instead of phone number.

Google Messages (Android Devices)

For any Android users, Google Messages is a great way and go-to way for anyone looking at how to text using wifi. Users are able to text messages, photos, or even participate in group chats without using any mobile data as long as they are connected to a wifi network.

Wifi Texting on Google Messages:

  • Google Messages app
  • Settings > Chat Features

Hushed (Private Texting and Calling)

If you’re hoping to get in touch over wifi and need a secure, private way to send your texts, Hushed is the perfect option. With Hushed you can create a secondary phone number that works entirely over wifi, allowing you to reliably send and receive texts and calls without revealing your primary phone number.

Hushed for Wifi Texting:

  • Download Hushed from the App Store or Google Play
  • Select an available local or international phone number
  • Start texting over wifi while keeping your personal number private

WhatsApp

Most people are aware of WhatsApp, which is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world on which users can send texts, voice messages, and media over wifi. It’s an especially popular option when travelling abroad. People tend to use it for everything from making reservations, booking rideshares, and connecting with friends. 

WhatsApp for Wifi Texting:

  • Download WhatsApp from the App Store or Google Play
  • Register with your phone number 

Facebook Messenger

An easy option for people who prefer to stay in touch with a laptop instead of a cell phone, anyone who already has a Facebook account can use Facebook Messenger to text over wifi without needing an active phone number. Chat with friends, share photos, or make video calls—all over wifi.

Use Messenger Over Wifi:

  • Download Facebook Messenger from the App Store or Google Play
  • Sign in with your Facebook account

Whether you’re an Apple or Android user, there are tons of different ways to text using Wi-Fi—you just need to figure out which way works best for you!

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Written by Krista

Based on beautiful Cape Breton Island, Krista Montelpare is a storyteller and content writer with a passion for community-building and communication clarity. See more at GatherAndEcho.com or follow her on Instagram @LoveLetterLifestyle where she writes love letters to her favourite foods, destinations, and thrift store finds.

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