Three customers using Android and iOS devices can now make and take phone calls and send and receive texts using Wi-Fi when they don't have a network connection - without the use of an app.
The company has introduced embedded Wi-Fi in the latest iOS and Android updates, meaning devices will automatically switch to using a Wi-Fi connection if they don't have signal.
Although the mobile network previously encouraged users to download and install its Three InTouch app, it was unreliable and meant customers needed to check both the app and their device's call log or messaging app for new communications, which didn't make for a slick user experience.
The company will now be issuing an alert to those who have a compatible device but are using Three InTouch, telling them they can delete the application and use embedded Wi-Fi instead.
To make use of embedded Wi-Fi, iPhone users simply need to install iOS 10.2 and the feature will start working straight away, while Android users will be able to use it when they update their Three-branded device to
Devices compatible with embedded Wi-Fi include the LG G5, Samsung S6, Samsung S6 edge, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus. The Samsung S7 and S7 edge will include the feature from mid-February.
However, those who don't use any of these devices can continue using the Three InTouch app until they upgrade their device to one of those supported by Three.
