Why 4G Does Not Always Mean VoLTE
Have you ever been downloading a heavy file or using Google Maps in a Bolt, only for a phone call to come in and kill your internet? You aren’t alone. For many Nigerians, the switch from 4G to 3G during a call is a daily frustration.
The Technical Problem Most older smartphones drop to 3G/2G frequencies to handle voice calls. In an era of remote work and instant transfers, this "data drop" can lead to failed banking transactions and disconnected Zoom meetings.
The Solution: VoLTE Voice over LTE (VoLTE) allows your phone to stay on the high-speed 4G or 5G network even while you are talking. It offers:
Simultaneous Data & Voice: Browse the web while you talk.
HD Audio: Crystal clear calls that don't sound like they’re coming from a tunnel.
Battery Efficiency: Your phone stops hunting for old 3G signals, saving your juice for what matters.
Not all phones handle this equally. Modern budget kings like the
Don't let poor network settings hold your business back. For a full breakdown of the best devices under ₦200,000 that support these features, check out the
The 4G and VoLTE Assumption
Many users in Nigeria assume that a 4G-enabled phone like an older
Hardware Limitation: Some early 4G phones were built only for "Data." They handle internet over 4G but must "fallback" to 3G/2G for voice calls.
Carrier Provisioning: Even if your phone is modern (like the
Redmi 15C ), your mobile operator (MTN, Airtel, etc.) must "white-list" or authorize that specific model to use their VoLTE service.
How to Check VoLTE Settings on Android
If you suspect your phone supports it but it isn't working, follow these steps to verify your settings.
Note: Menu names vary slightly by brand (Xiaomi uses "Mobile Networks," Samsung uses "Connections").
Open Settings.
Tap on Network & Internet (or Connections / SIM & Network).
Select your SIM card (e.g., MTN or Airtel).
Look for a toggle labeled VoLTE, HD Voice, or 4G Calling.
Turn it ON.
Troubleshooting: "I Turned it On, but No VoLTE Icon!"
If the setting is on but you still don't see the "VoLTE" or "HD" icon at the top of your screen, follow this operator-specific contact guide to get it activated.
1. MTN Nigeria
MTN's VoLTE is widely available but often requires a "trigger" from their end.
What to do: Ensure you have a 4G SIM card. If you don't, visit an MTN office or partner store for a swap.
Contact: * Dial 300 from your MTN line.
WhatsApp: 09033000001 (Chat with Zigi).
Action: Ask the representative to "Provision my line for VoLTE."
2. Airtel Nigeria
Airtel refers to this as "Airtel VoLTE" and it is essential for clear calls in congested areas like Ikeja or Lekki.
What to do: Switch your network to "4G Preferred" in settings.
Contact: * Dial 300 from your Airtel line.
Email: customercare@ng.airtel.com.
Action: Request "HD Voice activation" for your 4G SIM.
3. Glo & 9mobile
As of 2026, Glo and 9mobile are still rolling out VoLTE to specific regions.
Glo: Dial 121 to check if your current location is VoLTE-ready.
9mobile: Dial 200 to verify if your specific device is on their approved list.
Final Advice for Phone Buyers
If your phone is old and doesn't support VoLTE, you will continue to face "call drops" and slow internet. We recommend upgrading to a
For a deeper look at which budget phones have the best network receivers, read our latest hardware review on
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