4G calling

4G calling means your phone uses the 4G network to make and receive calls. Historically, mobile calls relied on older 2G and 3G networks, but as technology has evolved, these older networks have been phased out across Australia. The benefits of 4G calling include clearer voice quality, faster connection times, and the ability to browse the internet or use apps at 4G speeds while you’re on a call. On this page, we’ll explain how 4G calling works, what you need to get it, and how to make sure it’s set up on your device.

How does 4G calling work?

The technology behind 4G calling is essentially VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). It converts your voice into data packets, allowing calls to travel over the 4G and 5G networks. In 2026, many Australians also use VoNR (Voice over New Radio), which is the 5G equivalent of 4G calling. This allows for even lower latency and better integration with 5G data services. 

Previously, Australian mobiles would automatically “drop down” to 3G or 2G for phone calls. However, with the total shutdown of 3G networks in Australia, 4G calling is now the standard for most mobile users.

Info! With 4G calling, you don’t have to hang up to look something up online. You can use high-speed data and talk at the same time. While it’s called 4G calling, it works seamlessly on both 4G and 5G. If your phone is on 5G but doesn’t yet support 5G Standalone (5G SA) for voice, it will simply use 4G calling to handle the conversation.

4G calling was developed to take advantage of more powerful networks, providing better coverage and HD audio quality. For Australian telcos, it’s also much more efficient to run everything on modern networks. Now that 3G has been fully switched off nationwide, 4G calling is no longer just a “bonus” feature – it’s a necessity for staying connected.

How does SMS and MMS work with 4G calling?

SMS and MMS messaging have also transitioned to these modern networks; they now travel over the same ‘IMS’ (IP Multimedia Subsystem) layer as your 4G/5G calls, ensuring texts are delivered faster than on old 3G tech.

Is 4G calling the same as VoLTE? 

Yes, 4G calling is the same thing as VoLTE (Voice over LTE). Most Australian telcos use the term “4G calling” because it’s easier to understand.

The benefits of 4G calling

  • Faster connections: Your phone connects calls almost instantly.
  • Crystal-clear audio: Enjoy “HD Voice” quality with significantly less background noise.
  • Multitasking: Use 4G/5G data for navigation or browsing while mid-conversation.
  • Wi-Fi Calling support: Having 4G calling enabled is usually a requirement for using Wi-Fi calling in areas with poor indoor reception.

What do you need for 4G calling to work?

To use 4G Calling, you need a mobile plan (either SIM only or prepaid plan) and a compatible handset. By 2026, almost every plan offered by both major and smaller Australian providers include 4G calling as standard.

Most modern smartphones support both 4G calling and Wi-Fi calling. However, keep in mind that telcos sometimes have specific settings for their own networks. While most “Australia-spec” phones bought locally will work perfectly, some grey-import devices might have compatibility issues. It’s always a good idea to check your telco’s website for a list of supported devices if you’re unsure.

Please note! Following the 3G shutdown, your device must support VoLTE specifically for emergency calling. In Australia, some older 4G phones could make standard calls via 4G but still relied on 3G for Triple Zero. If you are using a device older than five or six years, ensure it is ‘VoLTE Emergency’ compliant to stay safe

Do both iPhone and Android support 4G calling?

Yes. Most iPhones (from the iPhone 8 and onwards) and the vast majority of modern Android devices support 4G Calling.

If you’re using an older Android model (such as an older Samsung, Google Pixel, or Motorola) and aren’t sure if it’s compatible, we recommend checking your settings or contacting your provider directly. It’s also vital to ensure your phone is running the latest software update to ensure the network settings are current.

How to enable 4G calling on iPhone and Android

In 2026, 4G calling is enabled by default on almost every smartphone in Australia. Because the 3G networks have been fully decommissioned, your phone must use 4G or 5G (VoLTE/VoNR) to make calls. In many cases, you might find that the “toggle” to turn it on has disappeared from your settings – this is normal, as it’s now a core requirement for your phone to work.

If you’re having trouble or want to double-check, here is where to find the settings on the latest software. Note that menu names may vary slightly depending on your specific model and software version.

Enable 4G calling on iPhone

  1. Open Settings and tap Mobile.
  2. Tap Mobile Data Options.
  3. Tap Voice & Data.
  4. Ensure 5G On, 5G Auto, or 4G is selected. If your phone is connected to a major Australian network, 4G calling is active by default.

On modern iPhones (running iOS 17 or later), Apple has largely removed the manual VoLTE switch for Australian carriers.

Enable 4G calling on Samsung

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Connections > Mobile networks.
  3. Look for the VoLTE calls toggle.

If you don’t see the VoLTE calls toggle, it’s likely because your carrier has “hard-coded” it to be always on to ensure you can reach emergency services.

Enable 4G calling on Google Pixel

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Network & internet > SIMs.
  3. Select your primary SIM.
  4. Scroll down to VoLTE or 4G Calling and ensure the switch is toggled to the right.

Enable 4G calling on Motorola, OPPO and Nothing Phone

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Network & Internet (or Mobile Network).
  3. Tap on your SIM card/Provider.
  4. Look for VoLTE or 4G Calling and switch it to On.

Tip! If you can’t find these settings and your calls aren’t working, try a Reset Network Settings in your phone’s General/System menu. This often forces the phone to download the latest carrier profile for Australian networks.

Will 4G calling use up my data allowance? 

No. Even though the call travels over the data network, it is billed as a standard voice call. It will not eat into your monthly gigabyte (GB) data limit.