While most tablets lack built-in calling capabilities, using tablets as phone replacements has become quite viable leveraging Wi-Fi connectivity and cloud calling apps. Affordable monthly plans also bring full cell network access to select slates.
Do Tablets Support Phone Calls Natively?
Traditionally, pure media slate tablets operate as primarily data devices without telephony. But new advances enable credible phone use cases.
Cellular Calling in Premium Devices
High-end tablets like iPad Pro and Surface Pro models offer embedded LTE radios in pricier variants allowing true native phone calls over cellular networks – even supporting insertion of carrier SIM cards with assigned phone numbers.
So these premium tablets equipped with mobile calling hardware and cellular subscriber identities work interchangeably with smartphones for direct telephony without any limitations.
Wi-Fi Tablets Require Apps as Workaround
However most mid-range and budget ARM-based tablets lack cellular radios and SIM card slots, relying solely on Wi-Fi connectivity. This requires utilizing calling apps as workarounds for phone duties.
While manageable for home use downloading dedicated apps like Skype or Google Voice, voice quality and reliability issues can arise compared to LTE tablets with dedicated mobile calling hardware and native number assignments permitting true smartphone interchangeability.
Making Calls with Cloud Telephony Apps
On Wi-Fi-only tablets without cellular access, using internet calling apps still facilitates phone communications nearly rivaling a smartphone:
VoIP Calling Performance
Tablet optimized apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Google Voice enable placing calls over data networks using voice over IP standards. Audio quality proves very solid thanks to efficient codecs and latency stabilization.
Native App Integration
Many VoIP apps also interface deeply with mobile OSes allowing call notifications and handoff similar to standard phone apps. This helps mask differences from cellular.
Video Calling and Conferencing
Larger tablet screens actually improve group video chat experiences compared to smaller phone displays. Dedicated apps leverage tablets multicam designs for high quality imaging.
Seamless Text Messaging Too
Texting from tablet apps keeps full message history and contact integration with smartphone platforms thanks to account linking from major providers.
So experienced consumers readily utilize tablets for the majority of phone communications needs with only niche gaps remaining.
Adding Tablet Cellular Access
While premium tablets boast built-in cellular access, affordable data plans from carriers also enable effectively utilizing Wi-Fi based models as smartphone stand-ins:
Cost Effective Tablet SIM Plans
Major wireless networks now offer reduced cost standalone tablet data plans around $10 monthly without the overhead costs of unique phone number fees thanks to number sharing from your smartphone plan.
Hotspot Tethering
Consumers then use enabled tablets as hotspots for other devices by tethering data connections over Wi-Fi/Bluetooth to provide internet access for a laptop for example while making VoIP calls from the same tablet.
Consistent Home Broadband Alternative
In homes without reliable landline internet, LTE tablets present consistent alternatives to route calls improving VOIP reliability as makeshift home phone solutions.
This affordable cell access further enhances Wi-Fi tablet calling functionality for extensive needs.
Steps for Configuring Tablet Calling Setups
Getting started using a tablet for makeshift phone duties just takes a few configuration steps:
Install Selected Calling Apps
From major stores, download chosen calling and texting apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Google Voice etc. Ideally apps with desktop interfaces too.
Setup Accounts
Configure free or paid account subscriptions when first launching apps. Import contacts from smartphone platforms for access across devices.
Allow Microphone/Camera Permissions
Ensure calling apps have access to tablet microphone and camera interfaces for enabling voice calls and video chats reliably.
Connect Bluetooth Headset (Optional)
For handsfree calling convenience, can pair wireless headsets with tablets leveraging Bluetooth connectivity.
Enable Wi-Fi/Cellular Data Access
Having consistent internet connectivity via Wi-Fi router or cellular data plan proves essential for reliable calls, so enable a strong signal.
Once configured, can start placing calls, texts, and video chats as typical smartphone use cases permit – just over internet pipelines.
Key Advantages of Tablet Telephony
Thanks to extensive capabilities of modern voice over IP platforms, using tablets as daily phone substitutes brings useful benefits:
- Requires just Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless calls
- VoIP call quality very consistent on strong networks
- No need for added cellular service lines/hardware
- Seamless call transition from smartphones
- Charging stands prop tablets effectively for video calls
- Large screens improve group video chat experiences
- Front facing mics and cams optimized for video calling
With the right apps and connectivity, don’t hesitate to utilize tablets for impromptu video call invites and other common phone duties nearly as capably as mobile devices directly – just connect headphones or earbuds for easier handsfree calling.
Summary – Tablets Offer Viable Telephony Now
While still serving key roles for content consumption first, modern tablets stand surprisingly able to tackle smartphone calling and texting duties as well thanks to mature voice over IP platforms and Wi-Fi/cellular access options.
For many basic communication needs, a tablet configured correctly with selected apps facilitates keeping conveniently in touch without necessitating phone hardware or numbers directly. Affordable data plans also enable LTE access further boosting reliability.
So utilize those underused slates as impromptu calling hubs able to pinch hit phone roles remarkably well these days! Tablets keep getting smarter at adopting every key function we expect of an indispensable personal mobile computer.
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