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Improve your cellular coverage by enabling WiFi Calling

May 25, 2023

IT Services continues to look at ways to improve and transform the user experience on campus. With regards to cellular network coverage, we wanted to let you know of a feature on your mobile device that can at once give you better coverage.

IT Services continues to look at ways to improve and transform the user experience on campus. With regards to cellular network coverage, we wanted to let you know of a feature on your mobile device that can give you better coverage.

As an SFU departmental device user, you have access to a feature called WiFi Calling. This feature, when enabled, allows you to call and text message over WiFi when you have little or no cellular coverage. You’d use it to call and message as you do regularly on the SFU cellular network – simple, right?

We are working hard to upgrade the overall network coverage in the near future. However, WiFi Calling will improve your experience in the interim and that’s news we wanted to share!

“Students, faculty and staff are at the heart of what we do and to support them, we need to optimize SFU technology,” says IT Services CIO Brian Stewart. “Enhancing overall cellular network coverage on the Burnaby campus is a top priority so as we continue to work to provide the level of service required, we want to make improvements in the interim to create better options on campus. WiFi Calling is one of those solutions.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can access this feature?

All SFU departmental device users can access WiFi calling on their TELUS or Rogers devices, however, WiFi calling is also available on most devices whether SFU-owned or not. If you use your personal device for work purposes, simply check in with your service provider on how to enable it and whether it’s included in your service plan.

2. How do I enable WiFi Calling on my device?

To enable WiFi Calling on your SFU device, please refer to the following device options for detailed how-to instructions:

3. Can I call 9-1-1 using WiFi Calling?

All service providers will recommend making an emergency 911 call using a mobile network or from a landline. As with any emergency call, you will be asked to confirm your location over the phone so they can best route your call to the correct regional Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). It is important to remember that if you are unable to speak with the operator, the address you entered in your iPhone Wi-Fi Calling settings menu will be shared with the operator. Unfortunately, it is not possible to find your device location when making a 911 call over WiFi. For more information on using WiFi Calling for 911 visit: