Is it possible to use a tablet as a phone or not? Tablets are portable and compact devices that combine aspects of both a Smartphone and a laptop. This definition means that they can be used as either computers or phones.
When you use your tablet as a phone you will be able to enjoy all the features you would get on a smartphone and more. In this article, we will show you the steps you can follow to get the most from your tablet as a Smartphone. Feel free to check out our on iPads vs laptops pros and cons.
Different Ways you can use a tablet as a phone
You can use your tablet to make calls, gaming, access the internet, send messages, make video calls, and many more.
- Connectivity and Internet access
- Call and Text on your Tablet?
- Data Streaming
- Portable Internet Connection
- Remote Working and Global Positioning System
- Data Security
Connectivity and Internet access
You can use your tablet to access the internet just like you would on your Phone. To do this you will need your tablet to be either connected to a WiFi network with internet access or have a data plan for your tablet.
Make sure you are allowed to access the connection and it has access to the internet. Your data connection will be used up every time you access the internet
If you do not have a WiFi network, you can buy a data plan instead. Calls made over data plans will use data every time. Just like a WiFi connection, you will need to have various applications to be successful.
Call and Text on your Tablet?
By combining your tablet with various applications and accessories such as a keyboard, or stylus, you can easily use it for many tasks such as taking notes, reading, drawing, or streaming movies.
Additionally, you can use third-party applications to be able to call, text, or do many other tasks only available on smartphones. However, it is important to note that you have to use third-party applications to achieve these smartphone features.
First, you need to establish a WIFI internet connection on your tablet. Establish a VoLTE – Voice over LTE and VoIP – Voice over Internet Protocol connection which will allow you to text and call on your tablet over your network.
The easiest way you can do this is by using a messenger application installed on your tablet. A good example is the WhatsApp application.
Other calling applications include Verizon Messages, Viber, Tango, and many more. Some of the best tablets that can be used as phones include, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, Google Pixel 6 Pro, Galaxy S22 Ultra from Samsung, and Apple iPhone 13 Pro.
Data Streaming
A cellular connection on your iPad will ensure that you will be able to stream movies, podcasts, and Spotify thanks to a regular internet connection.
Portable Internet Connection
When using a noncellular tablet, you are dependent on WIFI networks to connect to the internet. If you have an iPad with a cellular connection, you have a reliable internet connection that you can use to stream videos and watch movies anywhere you go even without a WIFI network. For the best user experience, a 5G-enabled iPad tablet will be the best thanks to its high connectivity speeds.
Remote Working and Global Positioning System
A WIFI and cellular-enabled iPad will come with a GPS or Global Positioning System chip. It will turn your iPad into a location or a navigation device.
This comes in handy when navigating an outdoor adventure or when you simply want to send your PIN location to someone.
If you like working out of the office, then a reliable internet connection will come in handy. Remote Working on your iPad is only possible with a cellular iPad tablet. It is one of the few fully portable workstations.
Just like a noncellular iPad, you can easily connect your iPad to a Magic Tablet to create a powerful laptop alternative for your work.
Data Security
Having your internet connection will reduce the chances of connecting to public WIFI networks which can be risky to your data privacy. It will ensure that your data is always safe with you.
iPad tablet as a Phone with cellular
iPad with cellular vs WIFI options
Pros
- Flexible Internet Access Anywhere even outdoors. You are not dependent on WIFI reach.
- Better Productivity due to regular unlimited connection
- Easy task management and access to cloud storage
- GPS Functionality available
- Enhanced Security due to privacy of cellular connection
Cons
- Slightly bulkier than WIFI models
- Faster Battery Drain especially with poor signals
- Regular Data Costs resulting in monthly costs
- Consistent WIFI makes cellular seem redundant
- Cellular iPads are more expensive compared to Wi-Fi-only models you might need to add between $100 and $150 to the cost.
iPad with WIFI but no Cellular
Frequently Asked Questions
What tablets can best be used as phones?
Depending on compatibility with the different third-party applications, some tablets may be better suited to be used as smartphones, than others.
Can you use your tablet as a phone over Wi-Fi?
Yes, you can use a tablet as a Phone over WiFi and data bundle connection. Before you can try, you need to make sure you are allowed to connect to the network and it has fast internet connectivity.
