Modern smartphone has long ceased to be just a device for voice communication, turning into a universal tool for solving work problems, communication and entertainment. In busy environments, users are often faced with the need to process multiple incoming signals simultaneously or combine a conversation with other operating system functions. This is where the need arises for a competent setting up parallel callssetting up of parallel calls
The concept of “parallel call” in the ecosystem Android can be interpreted differently depending on the specific device model and firmware version. This could be the classic “Call Waiting” function, the mode of operation with two SIM cards, when one line is busy with a conversation and the second receives a signal, or more complex usage scenarios voice control during a conversation. Understanding the differences between these modes is critical to the correct configuration of your gadget.
In this material we will analyze in detail all aspects of setting up multitasking calls, paying special attention to the technical nuances of the operation of the modem and software interfaces. You'll learn how to enable hidden features, optimize network performance, and avoid common mistakes that cause connections to drop. Correctly configuring the VoLTE protocol is key to simultaneous voice and data transmission on 4G networks. Let's dive into the technical details to ensure your device performs at its best.
Varieties parallel connections in mobile networks
Before moving on to directly setting up the menu, you need to clearly understand what types of parallel connections yours supports. operating system. Standard GSM telephony and more modern LTE protocols offer different mechanisms for processing incoming and outgoing data streams. Without this basic understanding, further manipulation of the menu may seem pointless.
The first and most common type is waiting for a second call. In this scenario, when you are talking to the first caller, the network notifies you with a signal that there is an incoming call from the second caller. You can put the first one on hold, answer the second one, and, if necessary, set up a conference call. This functionality completely depends on the support from the telecom operator and the settings itself Android.
The second type concerns working with two SIM cards. Owners of devices that support DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby) often wonder why, when talking on the first SIM card, the second one becomes unavailable or is switched to “offline” mode. This limitation is due to the architecture of the radio module, which physically cannot support two active voice channels simultaneously in some frequency bands without VoLTE technology.
The third aspect is software multitasking, which allows you to use voice commands (for example, through Google Assistant or Bixby) directly during a conversation. Many users do not know that this requires a separate permission in the system, which can be disabled by default in order to save resources or privacy.
Activating the Call Waiting function
The Call Waiting function is the foundation for organizing parallel communications. It allows you not to miss incoming signals, even when the line is busy. In most cases, this option is activated by the operator by default, but in the settings smartphone it can be deactivated by the user manually or lost after updating the firmware.
To enable this function, you must go to the “Phone” application, which is a standard dialer. The interface may differ depending on the shell (MIUI, OneUI, ColorOS), but the logic remains the same. You will need to find the additional settings menu, often hidden behind three dots in the corner of the screen or the “More” button.
After entering the settings menu, you should select the item responsible for accounts or SIM cards, if there are several of them in the device. This is where the “Call Waiting” switch is located. Enabling this option sends a special USSD code or request to the operator's network, registering your number in standby mode for a second connection.
☑️ Checking call waiting settings
It is worth noting that activating a function on the phone side does not always guarantee its operation. If, a few minutes after turning it on, you do not hear the characteristic beeps when you receive an incoming call during a call, the problem may lie on the side of the service provider. In this case, you need to contact your operator's support service to clarify your tariff plan.
⚠️ Attention: On some time-based tariff plans or in roaming, the call waiting service may be paid or require a separate connection. Check the terms of your tariff with your operator to avoid unexpected charges.
Setting up the operation of two SIM cards at the same time
Owners of devices with two physical SIM cards or one physical and one eSIM often face restrictions when making calls. Standard DSDS technology allows both numbers to be on the network, but during an active conversation on the first card, the second one may temporarily lose registration in the network if the technology is not activated VoLTE (Voice over LTE).
To ensure the ability to receive calls on the second SIM card while talking on the first, you need to make sure that both cards support and have an activated 4G/LTE mode for voice transmission. In the settings Android this is usually located in the “Mobile network” or “SIM cards and mobile networks” section.
In the SIM card management menu, find the item responsible for the preferred network type. For each card, you must select the “4G/LTE (recommended)” mode or similar. If there is no such option, perhaps your operator or specific phone model does not support the simultaneous operation of two voice channels in fourth generation networks.
| Technology | Description of work | Possibility of parallel calls |
|---|---|---|
| GSM/3G | Classic circuit switching | No (second SIM is not available) |
| VoLTE | Voice over 4G packet network | Yes (full support) |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Voice over Wi-Fi Internet | Yes (depending on roaming) |
| DSDA | Two active radio modules | Yes (hardware support) |
If your phone is equipped with a more advanced architecture DSDA (Dual SIM Dual Active), then it has two independent radio modules. In such devices, the problem of parallel calls is solved at the hardware level, and the setting is in the menu Android minimum required. However, there are fewer and fewer such models on the market due to high energy consumption.
Why does the second SIM card say “Unavailable”?
When using DSDS technology (one antenna for two SIM cards), during a voice call, the radio module switches to 2G/3G or 4G frequencies for voice transmission. At this moment, the second SIM card is physically unable to scan the network, since the antenna is busy. Only the transition to VoLTE frees up channels for simultaneous operation.
Using voice control during a conversation
A separate layer of problems with “parallel calls” is associated with the desire of users to activate the voice assistant without interrupting the dialogue with the interlocutor. Standard privacy settings Android often block microphone access for system assistants when it is occupied by a phone application.
To solve this problem, you need to grant advanced permissions to your voice assistant (Google, Alexa, Bixby). Go to the general system settings, select the “Applications” section, find “Google” (or another assistant) in the list and go to the “Permissions” subsection.
Here it is critical to find the item related to the microphone and make sure that the “Always Allow” or similar permission is selected, which does not restrict the operation of background processes. In some shells, such as MIUI or EMUI, there are additional “Run in background” settings that also need to be activated.
To quickly activate the assistant without touching the screen, set up an activation phrase (“Ok Google” or “Hey Siri”), but make sure that voice recognition is allowed in your phone settings even when the screen is locked or during a call.
It is also worth checking the settings yourself Phone applications. In some cases, it is this that intercepts the priority of using the audio input. If after all the manipulations the assistant does not respond, try restarting the device, as audio services may be stuck in a blocked state.
Organizing conference calls and merging calls
The conference call feature allows you to combine several parallel calls into one group conversation. This is the highest level of call management, requiring a clear sequence of actions. The mechanism of operation is simple: you accept the second call, put the first one on hold, and then merge the lines.
In the dialing interface, when you are already talking with the first subscriber and you receive a second call (or you dial it yourself), the “Add call” button or the “+” icon appears on the screen. Pressing this button puts the current person on hold and opens the line for dialing the next number or answering an incoming one.
After connecting with the second subscriber, the “Merge” button will appear on the screen. It is she who creates a conference in which all participants hear each other. The number of participants is limited by the operator's capabilities and usually ranges from 3 to 5 people at a time.
⚠️ Attention: When merging calls, charging may be carried out separately for each connected line. If you are roaming, the cost of such a conference can be extremely high. Be careful when using this feature abroad.
By clicking on the list of participants, you can see who exactly is online, and if necessary, disconnect some of them, while remaining in touch with the others.
Solving problems with dropped and dropped calls
Despite the correct configuration, users may encounter a situation where when trying to parallel call, the connection is simply dropped or there are no beeps at all. Most often, the reason lies in an unstable network signal or incompatibility of frequency bands used by the operator in a particular area.
The first thing to do if problems arise is to reset the network settings to factory settings. This will not delete your personal data, but will reset your APN settings and preferred network types to their original state. This can be done through the menu “System” → “Reset settings” → “Reset Wi-Fi, mobile data and Bluetooth settings.”
The second important step is updating the software. Manufacturers regularly release patches that correct errors in the operation of the modem and radio frequency modules. Check for updates in the "About phone" section and install the latest available firmware.
If the problem with parallel calls persists after a network reset and software update, most likely there is a limitation at the hardware level (lack of VoLTE support by your modem on the network of this operator).
It is also worth checking whether you have third-party calling applications installed that may conflict with the system compositor. Try disabling them temporarily or uninstalling them to see if the problem goes away. The system "Phone" application from Google or the manufacturer usually works more stable than third-party analogues.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why can’t I hear beeps when they call me during a call?
Most likely, you have disabled the “Call Waiting” function in your phone settings or it is not activated by your carrier. Also check if Do Not Disturb mode is turned on, which may block sound notifications about the second call.
Is it possible to talk on two SIM cards at the same time?
Yes, this is possible, but only if your phone and operator support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology. In 2G/3G networks, simultaneous conversation on two SIM cards is technically impossible on most modern smartphones due to the architecture of the radio module.
How many people can participate in a conference call?
The standard limit for most operators is 5 participants (including you). However, some corporate tariffs or special services may allow the connection of up to 10 or more subscribers. The exact number depends on the terms of your tariff plan.
Is there a charge for call waiting?
The call waiting function itself is usually free. However, as soon as you switch to the second subscriber, you begin to be billed according to the terms of your tariff. If the first subscriber was on hold, his waiting time is usually not charged, but it is better to check with the operator.