AT&T is offline. How can I call?
Your mobile network is down. Maybe it’s AT&T, which went offline for many users on Thursday. Or maybe it will be another service in a week, a month or a year.
But you really need to call. How do you do it?
The short answer: you need a Wi-Fi connection. If you have, there are a few ways to get through it.
Call WiFi
First, make sure that Wi-Fi calling is enabled in your phone’s settings. iPhone users can enable Wi-Fi Calling by going to Settings and then enabling Wi-Fi Calling on the Cellular Settings page. Android users can enable Wi-Fi calling in the Phone app.
Once you’re connected, you should be able to make calls more or less normally.
Use an app
If you can connect your phone to Wi-Fi, you can use a number of apps to stay connected. Those with WhatsApp can make calls and exchange text messages without a cell phone connection. The same goes for Meta’s Messenger app, which allows users with a Facebook account to text, call or video chat.
If you have an iPhone, you can use FaceTime to make calls. If you don’t want to video chat with someone and show your face, you can select the audio call option, which works just like a phone call. Those on Android can use Google Voice to do the same.
In case of emergency, use SOS
If you need to call 911, there’s another option: the SOS feature on many iPhones. When you activate SOS, the phone automatically calls the local emergency number and reports your location information. It also alerts you to any emergency contacts you have set up.
iPhone models 14 and later make satellite calls even when cellular service and Wi-Fi are unavailable. It is important that you only use this function in an emergency. You can’t jump on it just to call grandma.
Use a landline
Imagine a telephone plugged into the wall. The calls you place on this device are sent via wires attached to tall wooden poles.
Science fiction? Unbelievably, this technology exists today! Not only that, but the sound quality is often better.
These phones, also called landlines, can be found in many homes, perhaps in the home of someone you know. And these relics will work just fine even during a major phone outage.