Three inTouch lets you make calls and send texts when there’s no cell signal

Three UK just announced inTouch – an app for Android and iOS that can route your calls and texts over a Wi-Fi network. This isn’t like Skype or Viber, no this is for regular calls and texts that would normally go through the GSM network (they even come out of your monthly plan).

It’s not a new feature – O2 UK and T-Mobile US has been offering it for a while now – but few phones support it.

To take advantage of the new feature you need to download the respective Android or iOS app. Note that to make a call or send a message you have to go through the app instead of your usual dialer or message app.

Notice for Android users: this will not work on rooted phones, Three considers root a security breach.*Cough* You didn’t hear about this app from me *cough*

   

As Three points out, the London Underground recently got Wi-Fi but cell coverage underground is a problem. And this is a perfect solution for making calls while riding on the train.

But what if a Three UK user is connected to Wi-Fi… in Barcelona? Unfortunately, Three inTouch does not work abroad yet but it’s something the carrier is considering. For what it’s worth, T-Mobile USA’s Wi-Fi calling feature does work from abroad and so does O2 UK’s. Also, you could always route your connection through a UK VPN service to mask your whereabouts.