Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives, but what if you don’t have access to your phone and need to make a phone call? With the advancement in technology, you can now make phone calls using your Android tablet. This feature comes in handy when you’re travelling, or your phone battery dies. In this article, we will explore different methods on how to make a phone call using an Android tablet, so let’s get started!
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Make Phone Calls on an Android Tablet:
There could be several reasons why you might need to make phone calls on your Android tablet. Some common scenarios include:
1. Your phone is out of battery or isn’t working.
2. You’re travelling and want to save on international roaming charges.
3. You prefer using a larger screen for making calls, which is more comfortable.
4. You want to use your tablet for both work and personal calls, keeping them separate.
Whatever your reason may be, making phone calls on your Android tablet is a convenient and useful feature that can come to your rescue in times of need. Now, let’s explore some methods on how to make phone calls using an Android tablet.
Method 1: Using a SIM Card Slot and Cellular Network
If your Android tablet has a built-in SIM card slot and supports cellular connectivity, you can make phone calls directly using the tablet’s cellular network. Here’s how:
Steps:
1. Insert a SIM card into your tablet’s SIM card slot.
2. Open the Phone or Dialer app on your Android tablet.
3. Tap on the number pad to enter the phone number you want to call.
4. Press the green Call button to initiate the call.
5. Speak through the tablet’s built-in microphone and listen using the speakers or headphones.
Pros:
1. Allows you to make phone calls without the need for a separate phone.
2. Works even when Wi-Fi or internet connection is unavailable.
3. Offers the convenience of using a larger tablet screen for making calls.
Cons:
1. Requires a tablet with a built-in SIM card slot and cellular network support.
2. May require an additional cellular data plan if your tablet doesn’t share the same plan as your phone.
3. Limited to the coverage and network availability of your cellular service provider.
Method 2: Via Voice over IP (VoIP) Apps
Voice over IP (VoIP) apps allow you to make phone calls over the internet using your Android tablet. These apps use your internet connection, whether it’s Wi-Fi or mobile data, to make and receive calls. Here’s how to make phone calls using VoIP apps:
Steps:
1. Install a VoIP app such as Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice from the Google Play Store.
2. Launch the VoIP app and sign in or create a new account.
3. Grant the necessary permissions for the app to access your contacts and microphone.
4. Tap on the contact you want to call or enter the phone number manually.
5. Press the Call button to initiate the call.
Pros:
1. Allows you to make phone calls using your tablet’s Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
2. Offers the ability to make international calls at lower rates than traditional phone services.
3. Some VoIP apps provide additional features like video calling, instant messaging, and file sharing.
Cons:
1. Requires a stable internet connection for making and receiving calls.
2. Quality of the call may depend on the speed and reliability of your internet connection.
3. Both parties need to have the same VoIP app installed for communication.
Method 3: Using Bluetooth and Your Phone’s Cellular Connection
If you have an Android tablet without a built-in SIM card slot, you can still make phone calls by connecting your tablet to your smartphone via Bluetooth. This method allows you to utilize your phone’s cellular connection for making calls from your tablet. Here’s how to set it up:
Steps:
1. Pair your Android tablet with your smartphone via Bluetooth. Refer to the device settings for pairing instructions.
2. On your tablet, go to Settings > Connected devices > Bluetooth > Pair new device.
3. Select your smartphone from the available devices list and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process.
4. Once paired, you can enable "Phone audio" in the Bluetooth settings of your tablet.
5. Open the Phone or Dialer app on your tablet and use it like you would on a regular phone.
Pros:
1. Allows you to make and receive phone calls on your Android tablet using your phone’s cellular connection.
2. No need for a separate SIM card or cellular plan for your tablet.
3. Provides a seamless integration between your phone and tablet for communication.
Cons:
1. Requires both your Android tablet and smartphone to be within Bluetooth range.
2. Relies on your phone’s battery and cellular connection for making calls on the tablet.
3. May not support all phone features such as text messaging.
Method 4: Using Voice Commands and Google Assistant
If your Android tablet supports voice commands and has Google Assistant installed, you can make phone calls using your voice. This method allows for hands-free calling, which can be particularly useful while driving or when your hands are occupied. Here’s how to make phone calls using voice commands:
Steps:
1. Activate Google Assistant on your Android tablet by saying "Ok Google" or by pressing the dedicated Assistant button.
2. Say "Call [contact name/phone number]" to initiate the call. For example, "Call John Smith" or "Call 123-456-7890."
3. Google Assistant will confirm the contact or number and initiate the call.
Pros:
1. Offers hands-free calling, allowing you to make calls while performing other tasks.
2. Works well for individuals who prefer voice commands over manual dialing.
3. Provides the convenience of making calls without needing to touch your tablet.
Cons:
1. Relies on a stable internet connection and voice recognition for accurate call initiation.
2. May require a learning curve to get accustomed to using voice commands effectively.
3. Performance may vary based on background noise and voice clarity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Allows you to make phone calls without the need for a separate phone. | 1. Requires a tablet with a built-in SIM card slot and cellular network support. |
| 2. Works even when Wi-Fi or internet connection is unavailable. | 2. May require an additional cellular data plan if your tablet doesn’t share the same plan as your phone. |
| 3. Offers the convenience of using a larger tablet screen for making calls. | 3. Limited to the coverage and network availability of your cellular service provider. |
What to Do If You Can’t Make Phone Calls on Your Android Tablet:
If you’re unable to make phone calls on your Android tablet using the above methods, here are some fixes you can try:
1. Check if your tablet has a built-in SIM card slot and cellular network support. If not, consider using VoIP apps or connecting to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
2. Ensure that your tablet’s cellular data or Wi-Fi connection is active and working properly.
3. Confirm that you have the necessary permissions enabled for making calls within the chosen method or app.
4. Restart your tablet and try again. Sometimes a simple reboot can fix temporary glitches.
5. Check for any software updates for your tablet’s operating system and VoIP apps. Updating to the latest version can resolve compatibility issues.
Bonus Tips:
Here are some bonus tips to enhance your experience while making phone calls on your Android tablet:
1. Use a headset or Bluetooth earphones for improved audio quality and convenience.
2. Customize your VoIP app settings to forward calls to your tablet when your phone is unreachable.
3. Explore additional calling features offered by VoIP apps, such as call recording, call blocking, and call transfer.
5 FAQs:
Q1: Can I make emergency calls using my Android tablet?
A: Emergency calls are dependent on your tablet’s capabilities and the method you’re using to make phone calls. Using a SIM card slot and cellular network allows emergency calls, while some VoIP apps may not support emergency calling.
Q2: Can I receive calls on my Android tablet?
A: Yes, you can receive calls on your Android tablet if the method you’re using supports incoming calls. SIM card slot, VoIP apps, and Bluetooth connection methods enable both making and receiving calls.
Q3: Do I need an active data plan for making calls through VoIP apps?
A: Yes, VoIP apps require an active internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or mobile data, to make calls. If you’re using mobile data, ensure you have sufficient data to make calls without incurring additional charges.
Q4: Can I make international calls using my Android tablet?
A: Yes, making international calls is possible using VoIP apps, which often offer competitive rates for international calling. However, check the specific rates and terms of the app you’re using for accurate pricing information.
Q5: Can I make video calls on my Android tablet?
A: Yes, some VoIP apps, such as Skype and WhatsApp, offer video calling capabilities. Ensure that the app you’re using supports video calls and that your tablet has a front-facing camera for video communication.
Final Thoughts:
Making phone calls on an Android tablet can be a lifesaver in situations where your phone isn’t available or convenient to use. Whether it’s through a SIM card slot, VoIP apps, Bluetooth connection, or voice commands, there are various methods to choose from based on your tablet’s capabilities and your preferences. Explore these options, try out different methods, and find the one that works best for you. Stay connected and enjoy the flexibility of making calls from your Android tablet whenever you need it!