PTA's fix for poor 4G calls: turn on VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling, and swap an old SIM

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has told mobile users who get unclear voices or slow call connections on 4G to switch on VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling and to replace old SIMs that do not support 4G. The advice, issued on Thursday 15 October 2026, followed consumer complaints about call quality on 4G and LTE, Dawn reported. It matters most where 4G coverage is expanding after the recent spectrum auction.

PTA's four tips

1. Turn on 4G/LTE in your phone's network settings if it is off.
2. Enable VoLTE (voice over LTE). It carries your call over the 4G network instead of dropping to 2G or 3G, which gives clearer voice and faster call set-up. Your handset, your SIM and your operator all have to support it.
3. Use Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi) where the mobile signal is weak, such as inside a house or in a basement: switch it on in settings and connect to Wi-Fi.
4. Check that your SIM supports 4G. Many older SIMs do not support 4G or VoLTE, so the PTA advises getting the SIM upgraded.

How to switch on VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling

Menu names vary by brand and Android version, so use your phone's settings search for "VoLTE" or "Wi-Fi calling" if you cannot find them.

• Android (Samsung, Infinix, Tecno, Xiaomi and most others): Settings, then Mobile networks or SIM settings, choose the SIM, set the network mode to include 4G/LTE, and turn on VoLTE (sometimes "4G calling" or "Enhanced 4G LTE mode"). Wi-Fi Calling is usually on the same SIM page or under Connections.
• iPhone: Settings, Mobile Data (Cellular), Mobile Data Options, Voice & Data: choose 4G or LTE with VoLTE On. Wi-Fi Calling is under Settings, Phone, Wi-Fi Calling.

If the option is missing, your operator may not yet support it on your handset model, or the SIM is too old. Restart the phone after changing the setting.

Getting a 4G SIM

Take your original CNIC to your operator's franchise or service centre and ask for a SIM replacement or upgrade; biometric verification is required. Before you go, it is worth checking which SIMs are registered in your name with our guide to checking SIMs on your CNIC.

Is your phone registered?

VoLTE and 4G only help on a phone that is PTA-approved. An unregistered imported phone can be blocked from all networks. Work out the duty on an imported handset with the PTA tax calculator, and see what you lose to tax on each top-up with the mobile load tax calculator.

The PTA's advice did not name a helpline. If call quality stays poor after these steps, complain to your operator first, then to the PTA through its complaint system.