How to use Wi-Fi calling and mobile hotspots

To set up a mobile hotspot connection, simply activate the feature in “Settings” or “Manage Connections” on your phone. 

• On iPhones, go to “Settings,” then tap “Personal Hotspot.” 

• On Android devices, open the Settings app, then select “Network & Internet” and tap “Hotspot & Tethering.”

Using these features with your Verizon plan.

Wi-Fi calling.

To be eligible for Wi-Fi calling, you'll first need a phone that is HD Voice-enabled and has the HD Voice feature activated on your account. (All currently available smartphones are HD voice-capable.) HD Voice service is included in your Verizon voice plan at no additional charge and ready to use when you purchase a new device. 

Wi-Fi calling is also included for free with any Verizon voice plan and HD voice-compatible device. Even though you’re not using the Verizon network when you use the feature, you’ll still be able to make and receive calls using your regular number. And best of all, Wi-Fi calls to U.S. numbers are free — even if you’re traveling abroad. 

Mobile hotspot.

The mobile hotspot feature comes preinstalled on compatible smartphones, although it may have a different name (such as “Personal Hotspot,” “Internet Sharing” or “Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot”), depending on your device. Mobile Hotspot is included in many Verizon plans, including Unlimited plans, Shared plans and Prepaid plans. Check whether you have Mobile Hotspot by going to the Products & Apps page in My Verizon and clicking the Manage My Products tab. If you don’t already have it, you can add it there. 

Mobile hotspots use your phone’s data plan, so if you have a monthly cap, you’ll need to stay under that amount or else pay the overage fee. And Unlimited plans offer a certain amount of 4G LTE data use via mobile hotspot (for instance, the Play More Unlimited plan allows 15 GB). After that, the connection speed slows. 

Other hotspot options.

Stand-alone devices, such as the battery-powered Inseego 5G MiFi M1000 Hotspot or the Inseego Jetpack MiFi 8800L, can also serve as hotspots. You can purchase a Verizon Jetpack online and add it to your account if you have a compatible connected device plan. 

Stay connected — and protected.

Connecting wireless can be priceless, especially when you’re on the go. Practice good digital safety no matter what, though. On public Wi-Fi, that might mean using a virtual private network (VPN) and occasionally changing your hotspot password to prevent connections you don’t know about. Click here for more ways to stay protected.