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How to Get a Phone Number on an iPad: Untethering Your Tablet

The short answer is this: iPads, in their standard configuration, do not inherently function as phones and cannot be directly assigned a traditional cellular phone number like your iPhone. However, fear not! There are several viable workarounds that allow you to make and receive calls and send/receive text messages on your iPad, effectively giving it the functionality of a smartphone, albeit with a slightly different approach. Let’s explore these options.

Understanding the Limitations: Why iPads Aren’t Phones by Default

Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why iPads aren’t simply “big iPhones.” Apple designed iPads primarily as tablets for content consumption, creative tasks, and general productivity. While some iPad models have cellular connectivity, this primarily serves to connect to the internet via mobile data networks, not to enable traditional phone calls through cellular voice networks. This distinction is key.

Think of it this way: your cellular iPad has a data plan similar to a mobile hotspot, allowing it to access the internet without Wi-Fi, but it’s not inherently equipped with the voice call and SMS infrastructure that defines a phone number on a carrier’s network.

The Workarounds: Giving Your iPad a Voice

So, how do you get a phone number on an iPad? The solutions primarily revolve around leveraging Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and other internet-based communication services. Here are the most popular methods:

1. Using VoIP Services: The Digital Phone

This is the most common and arguably the most flexible solution. VoIP services like Google Voice, Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber allow you to make and receive calls and send text messages using your internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).

Google Voice: Offers a free phone number, call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and integration with Google services. Excellent for personal or small business use. Requires a Google account.
Skype: A long-standing leader in VoIP, offering both free and paid features, including international calling and screen sharing. Best for individuals and businesses needing robust communication tools.
WhatsApp: Primarily a messaging app, but also offers voice and video calls. Popular for international communication due to its widespread adoption. Requires both parties to have WhatsApp installed.
Viber: Similar to WhatsApp, offering messaging and voice/video calls. Features end-to-end encryption for added security.

How it works: You download the app, create an account, and often choose a phone number (Google Voice) or link your existing number (WhatsApp, Viber, Skype). Calls and messages are then routed through the internet instead of the cellular network.

Pros: Generally inexpensive (or free), offers a range of features, works on any device with an internet connection.

Cons: Reliant on internet connectivity, call quality can be affected by network conditions, may require a subscription for certain features.

2. Utilizing Apple’s Continuity Features: iPhone Synergy

If you already own an iPhone, Apple’s Continuity features offer a seamless solution. iMessage allows you to send and receive texts on your iPad using your Apple ID, and Wi-Fi Calling lets you make and receive phone calls on your iPad, routing them through your iPhone’s cellular connection when both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

How it works: Enable “Text Message Forwarding” in your iPhone’s Settings > Messages > Text Message Forwarding and select your iPad. Enable “Wi-Fi Calling” in your iPhone’s Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling.

Pros: Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem, no additional apps needed (for iMessage), uses your existing phone number.

Cons: Requires an iPhone, dependent on Wi-Fi network and iPhone proximity (for Wi-Fi Calling). The iPad is essentially acting as a remote for your iPhone.

3. Third-Party Calling Apps with Number Assignment: Paid Solutions

Several third-party apps offer dedicated phone numbers for your iPad, often with additional features like call recording, virtual PBX systems, and advanced call management. These are typically subscription-based services aimed at business users. Examples include Grasshopper, Sideline, and Line2.

How it works: You download the app, subscribe to a plan, and choose a phone number. The app then handles all call routing and messaging through its own infrastructure.

Pros: Dedicated phone number, advanced features for business use, often includes customer support.

Cons: Requires a subscription fee, may be more complex to set up than VoIP services.

4. Cellular Data with a Mobile Hotspot: A Circumventing Solution

While not directly giving your iPad a phone number, a cellular data plan allows you to use VoIP services even when Wi-Fi isn’t available. By connecting your iPad to a mobile hotspot (either your phone or a dedicated hotspot device), you can maintain internet connectivity and utilize the VoIP apps mentioned earlier.

How it works: Activate a cellular data plan on your iPad. Enable the personal hotspot on your smartphone or use a dedicated mobile hotspot device. Connect your iPad to the hotspot’s Wi-Fi network.

Pros: Enables VoIP usage on the go, flexible connectivity.

Cons: Requires a cellular data plan, can drain battery life, mobile hotspot data limits may apply.

Choosing the Right Solution: Considerations

The best approach depends on your individual needs and priorities:

Cost: Google Voice is free, while other VoIP services and third-party calling apps may require subscriptions.
Ease of Use: Apple’s Continuity features are the simplest to set up if you have an iPhone.
Features: Consider features like call recording, voicemail transcription, and international calling.
Reliability: VoIP services rely on internet connectivity, so a stable connection is crucial.
Privacy: Be aware of the privacy policies of the VoIP services you use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my existing cell phone number on my iPad?

Yes, through Apple’s Continuity features (iMessage and Wi-Fi Calling), you can use your existing iPhone number to send texts and make calls on your iPad. VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp and Viber can be linked to your current phone number, but this is mainly for contact discovery, not necessarily making calls on the cellular network with your phone number directly from the iPad.

2. Is Google Voice really free?

Yes, Google Voice is free for personal use in the US and Canada. You get a free phone number, voicemail transcription, and calling within those countries. International calls may incur charges.

3. Do I need a cellular iPad to get a phone number?

No, you do not need a cellular iPad to get a phone number. VoIP services work perfectly well on Wi-Fi-only iPads. However, a cellular iPad offers the advantage of using VoIP services on the go without relying on Wi-Fi.

4. Will Wi-Fi Calling work if my iPhone is off?

No, Wi-Fi Calling requires your iPhone to be powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPad. Your iPad is essentially borrowing your iPhone’s cellular connection.

5. Are VoIP calls secure?

The security of VoIP calls depends on the service you use. Some services, like WhatsApp and Signal, offer end-to-end encryption, while others may not. Always review the privacy policies of the VoIP service you choose.

6. Can I text regular SMS messages using Google Voice on my iPad?

Yes, Google Voice allows you to send and receive SMS messages to regular phone numbers.

7. How much data does a VoIP call use?

A typical VoIP call uses about 1 MB per minute. Video calls use significantly more data.

8. Can I port my existing phone number to Google Voice?

Yes, you can port your existing mobile phone number to Google Voice for a one-time fee. This allows you to use your current number with Google Voice on your iPad and other devices.

9. What is the best VoIP app for international calling?

Skype and WhatsApp are popular choices for international calling due to their widespread adoption and competitive rates. Check their specific rates for the countries you frequently call.

10. Can I use a Bluetooth headset with VoIP apps on my iPad?

Yes, you can use a Bluetooth headset with VoIP apps on your iPad for hands-free calling.

11. Does using VoIP drain my iPad’s battery faster?

Yes, using VoIP can drain your iPad’s battery faster, especially if you are making frequent calls or using cellular data.

12. What alternatives are there if I don’t want to use any of the mentioned services?

While less common, you could explore landline phone services with apps. Some traditional phone providers offer apps that allow you to make and receive calls using your landline number on your iPad, essentially acting as a remote extension. This is a niche solution, but it can be suitable for those who prefer traditional phone lines.

Conclusion: Staying Connected on Your iPad

While iPads aren’t phones in the traditional sense, the workarounds discussed above offer compelling solutions for staying connected. By leveraging VoIP services, Apple’s Continuity features, or third-party calling apps, you can effectively give your iPad a voice and enjoy the convenience of making and receiving calls and texts on your tablet. Choose the option that best fits your needs, and unlock the full communication potential of your iPad!