It boils down to this: An Android tablet is a touch-screen, mobile device that runs some version of the Android operating system on it. And it’s not a smartphone, though with the right software and hardware you might be able to make calls over Wi-Fi networks using one.

All tablets can connect to the Internet through your local Wi-Fi network. Just like your home computer, this connection does not require a cellular data plan, nor does it have a usage cap (unless your Internet service provider caps your usage across your network).

If you often need a portable personal network for your tablet and don’t want to use your phone’s data allowance, you can buy a separate mobile hot spot and service plan. These pocket hot spot devices connect to a cellular data network and provide Wi-Fi access for tablets, laptops and phones.

If you have a portable device like a tablet, you can use your internet connection to make a call. Tablets use a technology called Voice Over IP to send voice and video calls to regular phones. An iPad or Android tablet can make calls that sound just as good as a dedicated phone.

Tablet calling is easy You really need only two things to make your tablet function as a smartphone: a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or VoLTE (voice over LTE) app and a pair of headphones. The app works on Android and Apple devices, so long as you have a strong Wi-Fi signal l a 3G data connection, at minimum.

If you bought your tablet for a reduced price with a contract from a major carrier, it is most likely locked. If you paid full price for your tablet or bought it directly from the manufacturer (usually denoted when you buy it as an ‘unlocked’ version) it is likely unlocked. If in doubt, call your carrier to verify.

Google’s Hangouts Dialer app lets you make and receive phone calls when you set up a Google Voice™ number.

1. WhatsApp. WhatsApp is an easy-to-use app that allows you to send texts and make voice and video calls over Wi-Fi.
2. Viber.
3. WeChat.
4. Signal.

With the Call & text on other devices feature, you can make and receive calls on your tablet as long as it’s signed into the same Samsung account as your phone. You can also send messages. However, the connected phone will need to have active service.

Many but not all Android tablets can also be used as a phone. You’ll have to have a SIM card with a corresponding cellular contract that supports phone calls, of course. Usually, you can’t make phone calls with Windows tablets or iPads. Can I use an LTE tablet without a SIM card?

Tablets offer you access to multiple applications which are difficult to run on Smartphone. Through tablets, you can read reviews, browse news, compose music, and search for unlimited content. Though Smartphones are quite portable, they have limitations when it comes to screen size.