Unleash Your Tablet’s Inner Phone: Making Calls on Your Samsung Galaxy Tab

You might be surprised to learn that your sleek Samsung tablet isn’t just for browsing, streaming, and gaming. It can, in fact, moonlight as a phone! While not as straightforward as picking up a smartphone, making calls from a Samsung tablet is entirely possible, offering convenience and flexibility. The primary method to make a phone call from a Samsung tablet is through Call & text on other devices. This feature leverages your Samsung phone’s cellular connection to enable calling and texting directly from your tablet, provided both devices are linked to the same Samsung account and are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Understanding the Options: Your Gateway to Making Calls

There are several ways to initiate phone calls from your Samsung Galaxy Tab. The best method for you will depend on your specific needs and the devices you have available. Let’s delve into the most common and effective approaches:

Call & Text on Other Devices: Seamless Integration

This is the most intuitive and Samsung-centric solution. It seamlessly integrates your tablet with your Samsung phone, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts without needing to physically handle your phone.

• Requirements:
  • A Samsung phone capable of making calls.
  • A Samsung tablet (e.g., Galaxy Tab S series, Galaxy Tab A series).
  • Both devices must be logged into the same Samsung account.
  • Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  • The “Call & text on other devices” feature must be enabled on both the phone and the tablet.
• Setup:
  1. On your Samsung phone, go to Settings > Advanced features > Call & text on other devices.
  2. Toggle the feature On.
  3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 on your Samsung tablet. You might be prompted to log in to your Samsung account.
  4. Once enabled, your tablet will display your phone’s call history and allow you to make calls using the dialer or contacts app.
• Making a Call: Open the Phone app (or a similar app that syncs with your phone’s calling functionality) on your tablet. You’ll see your contacts and call history from your phone. Simply select a contact or dial a number and tap the phone icon to initiate the call. The call is actually being routed through your phone’s cellular connection.

Using VoIP Services: Calling Over the Internet

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Skype, WhatsApp, Google Voice, and Viber allow you to make calls over the internet. This is a great option if you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection or a mobile data plan.

• Requirements:
  • A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
  • An account with a VoIP service (e.g., Skype, WhatsApp, Google Voice, Viber).
  • The VoIP app installed on your tablet.
• Setup:
  1. Download and install your preferred VoIP app from the Google Play Store.
  2. Create an account or log in to an existing one.
  3. Grant the app necessary permissions (microphone, contacts).
• Making a Call: Open the VoIP app. Navigate to your contacts or use the dialer to enter a phone number. Tap the call button to initiate the call. Note that calls to regular phone numbers often require purchasing credits or a subscription.

Bluetooth Headset: Bridging the Gap

While this method doesn’t directly allow your tablet to make calls, it allows you to use a Bluetooth headset connected to your phone to answer calls received on your phone while using your tablet.

• Requirements:
  • A Bluetooth headset.
  • Your Samsung phone.
• Setup:
  1. Pair your Bluetooth headset with your Samsung phone.
  2. Ensure your phone is within Bluetooth range of your tablet.
• Answering a Call: When you receive a call on your phone, your Bluetooth headset will ring (if configured to do so). You can answer the call directly from the headset, allowing you to continue using your tablet.

Third-Party Calling Apps: Exploring Alternatives

The Google Play Store offers a variety of third-party calling apps that provide different features and functionalities. Some of these apps work by providing you with a virtual phone number that you can use to make and receive calls over the internet.

• Requirements:
  • A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
  • A third-party calling app installed on your tablet (e.g., TextNow, Talkatone).
• Setup:
  1. Download and install a third-party calling app from the Google Play Store.
  2. Create an account or log in to an existing one.
  3. Follow the app’s instructions to obtain a virtual phone number.
• Making a Call: Open the calling app. Use the dialer to enter a phone number. Tap the call button to initiate the call. These apps often rely on in-app purchases or advertising to support free calling.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

1. Can I use my Samsung tablet to make emergency calls (911)?

Generally, no. If you are using the Call & text on other devices feature, the emergency call will be routed through your connected phone. If you are relying on a VoIP service or a third-party calling app, emergency calls may not be supported or reliable. It is strongly recommended to always have access to a traditional phone line or mobile phone for emergency situations.

2. Do I need a SIM card in my tablet to make calls?

Not necessarily. The “Call & text on other devices” feature relies on your phone’s SIM card and cellular connection. VoIP services and third-party calling apps use your internet connection, so a SIM card is not required for those methods. Certain tablet models come with cellular capabilities (having a SIM card slot), where you can use it for a cellular connection to make calls via third-party apps.

3. Why is “Call & text on other devices” not working?

Several factors can prevent this feature from working:

• Ensure both devices are logged into the same Samsung account.
• Verify both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Confirm the feature is enabled on both the phone and the tablet.
• Check for software updates on both devices. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues.
• Restart both devices.

4. Will making calls on my tablet use my phone’s data plan?

If you’re using the “Call & text on other devices” feature, yes. The calls are being routed through your phone’s cellular connection, so they will use your phone’s data plan if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi on your phone. VoIP services and third-party calling apps will use your tablet’s internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

5. Can I use a Bluetooth headset with my tablet for VoIP calls?

Absolutely. You can pair a Bluetooth headset with your tablet and use it for VoIP calls. This provides hands-free calling and improved audio quality.

6. Is there a cost associated with using VoIP services?

It depends on the service and the type of call. Calls to other users of the same VoIP service are often free. However, calls to regular phone numbers usually require purchasing credits or a subscription.

7. How do I improve the audio quality of calls on my tablet?

• Ensure you have a strong and stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
• Use a headset or earphones with a microphone.
• Minimize background noise.
• Update the software on your tablet and the calling app.

8. Can I see my phone’s call history on my tablet?

Yes, when using the “Call & text on other devices” feature. Your tablet will sync with your phone’s call history, allowing you to easily see recent calls and missed calls.

9. How secure are VoIP calls?

The security of VoIP calls depends on the VoIP service you’re using. Some services offer end-to-end encryption, which protects your calls from eavesdropping. Always research the security features of a VoIP service before using it for sensitive conversations.

10. Can I block unwanted calls on my tablet?

Yes, you can block unwanted calls using the same methods you would use on your phone. If you’re using the “Call & text on other devices” feature, blocking a number on your phone will also block it on your tablet. Most VoIP services and third-party calling apps also offer call blocking features.

11. What are the best apps for making calls from a Samsung tablet?

The “best” app depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular options include:

• Skype: A widely used VoIP service with features like video calling and screen sharing.
• WhatsApp: A messaging app that also offers voice and video calling.
• Google Voice: A service that provides a free phone number for making and receiving calls and texts.
• Viber: A messaging app that also offers voice and video calling with end-to-end encryption.

12. How can I disable the “Call & text on other devices” feature?

Simply go to Settings > Advanced features > Call & text on other devices on both your phone and tablet and toggle the feature Off. This will prevent your tablet from syncing with your phone’s calling and texting functionality.

By understanding these methods and addressing these common questions, you can effectively leverage your Samsung tablet to make and receive calls, expanding its functionality and making it an even more versatile device. Embrace the convenience and explore the possibilities that await!