Turn Your Samsung Galaxy Tab into a Phone: A Comprehensive Guide

While Samsung Galaxy Tabs are primarily known as tablets for media consumption, productivity, and gaming, many users often wonder if they can leverage their larger screens and powerful processing to make phone calls and send text messages, essentially turning them into oversized smartphones. The answer is yes, with some caveats and the use of specific methods. This comprehensive guide will explore the various ways you can use your Samsung Galaxy Tab as a phone, along with detailed instructions, troubleshooting tips, and important considerations. Whether you need a backup phone or simply prefer using your tablet for everything, this article will help you unlock its full potential as a communication device.

Understanding the Limitations

Before diving into the how-to, it’s crucial to understand the limitations of using a Samsung Galaxy Tab as a phone. Unlike smartphones, most tablets don’t have built-in cellular voice call capabilities. This means that they typically don’t come with a traditional phone dialer app or the necessary hardware for direct cellular voice calls (unless you have a specific cellular-enabled tablet model). Therefore, most of the methods outlined below rely on workarounds using the internet (Wi-Fi or cellular data) for calls and messages.

Here’s a breakdown of typical limitations:

• No Native Phone App: Most Galaxy Tabs lack a dialer app for placing regular phone calls through a carrier’s network.
• No SIM Card Slot (in Wi-Fi Only Models): Wi-Fi-only tablets lack a SIM card slot and, thus, cannot directly access cellular networks for voice calls and texting without using alternative methods that leverages internet connectivity.
• SMS/MMS Limitations: Even if you use workarounds, receiving and sending standard SMS/MMS messages might be limited. Usually, the main method is through using a specific application.
• Not Designed for Handheld Use: The sheer size of a tablet makes it awkward to hold up to your ear for long phone calls. You will likely need to use a headset, earbuds, or speakerphone.

Methods to Use Your Samsung Galaxy Tab as a Phone

Despite these limitations, there are several effective methods to make and receive calls and send messages on your Samsung Galaxy Tab. These methods largely fall into the following categories:

1. Using Voice and Video Calling Apps (VoIP): This is the most common and easiest way to make calls on a tablet. Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Google Meet, Facebook Messenger, and Viber offer free or low-cost voice and video calling over the internet.
2. Using Third-Party Calling and Texting Apps: Some apps specifically aim to provide calling and texting functionality to devices that lack native support, some may require a carrier connection.
3. Using Your Carrier’s Companion App (If Available): Some carriers offer companion apps that allow you to use your phone number on other devices, including tablets. These apps often require your smartphone to be active on the same network.
4. Using the “Call & Text on other devices” (Samsung Only): This method is specific to Samsung devices that have this feature and needs an active Samsung smartphone to act as a bridge.
5. Using a Cellular Data Plan (if applicable): If your tablet has cellular capabilities and is activated on a cellular plan, some apps may be able to utilize the cellular network for voice calls, depending on the carrier.

Method 1: Using Voice and Video Calling Apps (VoIP)

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps are the most reliable and accessible way to make calls on your Samsung Galaxy Tab. These apps leverage your internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to transmit voice and video data, bypassing the traditional phone network. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Download and Install a VoIP App

The first step is to choose and install a suitable VoIP app. Here are some popular choices:

• Skype: Widely used for international and domestic calls, with features like group calls and screen sharing.
• WhatsApp: Popular for free voice and video calls, especially among international users.
• Google Meet: A good option for video conferencing and group calls, often used for professional purposes.
• Facebook Messenger: Allows voice and video calls with your Facebook friends.
• Viber: Another popular option for free calls and messages, with added features like stickers and games.

To install an app, simply:

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Galaxy Tab.
2. Search for the app you want to install (e.g., “Skype”).
3. Tap the Install button.
4. Once the app is installed, tap Open to launch it.

Step 2: Create an Account or Sign In

Most VoIP apps require you to create an account or sign in using an existing one. Follow the on-screen instructions to create an account if necessary. You might be asked to provide your phone number, email address, and other personal information.

Step 3: Grant Permissions

Upon launching the app, you will likely be asked to grant it permissions to access your microphone, camera, and contacts. It’s crucial to grant these permissions for the app to function correctly. Tap Allow when prompted.

Step 4: Add Contacts

You can add contacts to your VoIP app in a few different ways. Some apps will automatically sync with your device contacts, while others allow you to manually add contacts by entering their phone number or username. Refer to the specific app’s help section for more detailed instructions.

Step 5: Start Making Calls

Once you have set up the app and added your contacts, making a call is simple:

1. Open the VoIP app.
2. Find the contact you want to call.
3. Tap the phone or video call icon next to their name.
4. Choose between voice or video call.

Tip: You can also use these apps to receive incoming calls. Make sure your app is running in the background to receive calls, and ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection for best call quality.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Calling and Texting Apps

Some third-party apps aim to emulate traditional phone functionality more closely, offering features like a dialer, phone number, and basic texting. These apps usually provide their own phone number or use internet-based calling, but some may offer ways to link your existing cellular number. Here are a few examples:

• TextNow: Offers free phone numbers, calls, and texting over Wi-Fi or cellular data (may have ads or require a subscription for ad-free service).
• Google Voice: Provides a free phone number for calls, texts, and voicemails, integrating with Google services.
• Talkatone: Another app offering free calls and texts, often requiring the user to view advertisements.
• Dingtone: Offers free calls and texts to other Dingtone users, with a credit system for calls to non-users.

How to Set Up Third-Party Calling Apps

The setup process for these apps is generally similar to VoIP apps:

1. Download and Install the App: Find the app on the Google Play Store and install it.
2. Create an Account: Follow the app’s instructions to create an account. Some apps may require a phone number verification.
3. Get a Phone Number (If Necessary): Some apps will provide a free or paid phone number for calling and texting.
4. Grant Permissions: Allow the app access to your contacts, microphone, and other permissions as prompted.
5. Start Calling and Texting: Use the dialer or texting interface within the app to make calls or send messages.

Important Note: While some of these apps claim to offer free calls and texts, they might have restrictions or limitations, such as ads, limited call minutes, or the need to pay for certain features. Always review the terms and conditions of the app before using it.

Method 3: Using Your Carrier’s Companion App

If your mobile carrier offers a companion app, you might be able to use it on your Galaxy Tab to make calls and send messages using your existing phone number. This method typically requires you to have an active SIM card in your smartphone. The tablet then connects to your smartphone for voice calls and text messages. However, not every carrier offers this functionality. Check with your specific carrier about availability of these apps.

How to Use a Carrier Companion App (if applicable):

1. Check for Compatibility: Check with your carrier’s website or customer support to see if they offer a companion app for tablets.
2. Install the App: Download and install the app from the Google Play Store.
3. Sign In with Your Account: Usually, you’ll sign in using the same credentials as your phone account.
4. Pair With Your Phone: The app will guide you through the pairing process (usually the process is to keep your smartphone and tablet on the same network). Make sure the phone is connected to the internet.
5. Start Using it: Use the app interface to place calls and send messages.

Note: These companion apps usually require your phone to be powered on and connected to the internet. Calls and texts are often routed through your smartphone.

Method 4: Using the “Call & Text on Other Devices” (Samsung Specific)

Samsung offers a feature called “Call & Text on other devices” that allows you to use your phone number on other compatible Samsung devices, including tablets. This method requires both a Samsung smartphone and a Samsung tablet running compatible software. Here’s how to set it up:

Step 1: Enable “Call & Text on other devices” on your phone

1. Open Settings app on your Samsung smartphone.
2. Tap Advanced features.
3. Tap Call & Text on other devices.
4. Enable the toggle.

Step 2: Enable “Call & Text on other devices” on your tablet

1. Open Settings app on your Samsung Tablet.
2. Tap Advanced features.
3. Tap Call & Text on other devices.
4. Enable the toggle.
5. Make sure that the phone and tablet are logged in with the same Samsung account.

Step 3: Check if everything is working

Now you can start making calls from your Samsung Tablet. You can also send and receive messages through the Samsung Message app. If everything is set up correctly, you can use your Samsung Tablet for calls and messages as if you were using your phone.

Important Note: Both devices need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network or be on different networks, but both devices need internet connection. Also, both must be logged in to the same Samsung account and have the same software version.

Method 5: Using Cellular Data (If Applicable)

If you own a Samsung Galaxy Tab with cellular capabilities and an active SIM card with a data plan, you might have a couple of extra options, though this varies by carrier and the available data plan features. Some carriers might offer additional services that allows a regular phone number usage on devices using their cellular connection (similar to the companion app method). You should also check if any apps have specific options for using a celular connection with a SIM card to place calls (some VoIP apps might be able to do this).

How to Use Cellular Data for Phone Calls:

1. Ensure Cellular is Enabled: Go to your tablet’s settings and ensure that the cellular connection is turned on and has a signal.
2. Check with Your Carrier: Contact your carrier to inquire about any tablet-specific options for making calls, some offer special lines or services that allow calling using the tablet’s cellular data.
3. Use VoIP apps: If your carrier doesn’t offer any direct voice calling options on the tablet, you can still use VoIP apps as described earlier, but now the calls will be going through your cellular data connection instead of Wi-Fi.

Note: Using cellular data for voice calls can consume a significant amount of data. Therefore, it is recommended to use Wi-Fi whenever possible to avoid exceeding your data plan.

Tips for a Better Calling Experience

Using a tablet for phone calls might not be as seamless as using a smartphone, but with some tips, you can improve your experience:

• Use a Headset or Earbuds: Holding a tablet up to your ear is uncomfortable and unwieldy. Use wired headphones, wireless earbuds, or a Bluetooth headset for more convenient and private calls.
• Use Speakerphone: If you don’t have a headset, use the tablet’s built-in speakerphone for hands-free calls, making sure you are in a quiet place.
• Ensure a Stable Wi-Fi or Cellular Connection: For VoIP calls, ensure you are on a stable Wi-Fi network or a strong cellular data connection for good call quality.
• Keep Your Apps Updated: Make sure your VoIP apps and other relevant apps are up-to-date to receive the latest features and bug fixes.
• Adjust Volume Settings: Adjust your device’s volume settings and the volume settings within the apps for a comfortable listening and speaking level.
• Test Before Important Calls: Before making an important call, test your setup and call quality with a friend or family member to avoid any surprises.
• Consider a Tablet Stand: A stand can help with video calls, keeping your tablet in a good position.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

You might encounter some common problems while using your Samsung Galaxy Tab as a phone. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Poor Call Quality: Check your Wi-Fi connection or cellular signal, if you are using mobile internet. Restart your router, if you are using Wi-Fi.
• Can’t Hear the Other Person: Check the volume settings, ensure that your headset or earbuds are connected correctly, or try using speakerphone. Also make sure that the app has the permissions to use the microphone.
• Microphone Not Working: Check the app settings to ensure that it has permission to use your microphone. Also, make sure that nothing is covering the microphone in your device. Restart the tablet in case of a software glitch.
• App Not Connecting: Check if the app is up to date, close it and start it again. If this fails, restart your tablet or try using another app to see if the problem persists.
• SMS Messages Not Receiving: If your texting is working using a third party app, make sure you are using the correct app for receiving SMS. If you are trying to receive messages on the companion app, make sure your phone is powered on and has an active SIM connection.

If none of these troubleshooting steps works, you can always contact the app’s support for extra help or, as a last resort, you might consider a factory reset on your tablet (remember to back up your data beforehand!).

Conclusion

While your Samsung Galaxy Tab might not be a traditional phone, with the right methods and apps, it can be a powerful communication device. Whether you use VoIP apps, third-party services, your carrier’s companion app, the Samsung Call & Text feature, or use cellular data, there are many options available. By understanding the limitations and following the instructions in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of your tablet and make the most out of its larger screen and powerful hardware. So next time you need to make a call, don’t hesitate to reach for your Samsung Galaxy Tab—it’s more versatile than you might think. Just make sure you use the proper accessories for a seamless call experience!