Introduction
Unwanted phone calls can be annoying, particularly when you’re expecting an important call. Fortunately for iPhone users, there are various ways to block calls. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to block calls on your iPhone. Whether you want to block specific phone numbers or block calls from unknown numbers, we have you covered.
Using the Built-in iOS Feature
The iPhone comes with a built-in feature that allows you to block calls from specific phone numbers or contacts. Follow these steps to block calls:
- Go to the Phone app and click on the Recents tab
- Find the phone number you want to block and click on the ‘i’ icon next to it
- Scroll down and click on ‘Block this Caller’
Once you’ve followed these steps, you will no longer receive calls or FaceTime calls from the blocked number. You won’t receive text messages or notifications for calls from the blocked number either.
Using the Do Not Disturb Feature
The Do Not Disturb feature silences all calls, alerts, and notifications while your iPhone is locked. Here’s how to use it:
- Go to Settings and click on Do Not Disturb
- Toggle the ‘Manual’ switch to enable Do Not Disturb
- Here, you can choose to allow calls from your “Favorites” list or “All Contacts”
- You can also enable the Repeated Calls feature to allow calls from a number that calls twice within three minutes, which is helpful in case of emergencies.
You can schedule Do Not Disturb mode for a specific time by clicking on “Schedule” and selecting the timings.
Using Third-party Apps
There are various third-party apps available on the App Store that allow you to block unwanted phone calls and messages. Some popular options include:
- Truecaller
- Hiya
- RoboKiller
These apps work by identifying spam and telemarketing calls using a database of known numbers and blocking them before they can ring. Some of these apps also have the ability to block texts and voicemails. You can download these apps from the App Store and follow the instructions to set them up.
Using Call Blocking Services
Most network providers offer call-blocking services to their customers. These services work by blocking calls from specific categories such as telemarketing, spam, and robocalls. If you’re interested in using call blocking services, get in touch with your network provider to see if this is available and what fees, if any, are involved.
Using Silence Unknown Callers Feature
This feature is the newest addition to Apple’s iOS. You can do this by following these steps:
- Go to Settings and click on Phone
- Click on ‘Silence Unknown Callers’
If this setting is activated, your iPhone will only ring if the caller is in your contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri suggestions. All other calls will be automatically silenced, and you’ll be notified of the missed call in your recent calls section.
Block Calls Using Siri
Siri can even help by blocking a number for you. Here’s how:
- Say “Hey Siri” or hold the Home button to activate Siri.
- Say “Block this Caller” and state the caller’s name or number.
- Siri will ask if you’re sure you want to block the caller and confirm with you.
Once you’ve confirmed, the number will be added to the blocked list, and you won’t receive calls or messages from the blocked number. If you change your mind, you can unblock the number later by following the instructions.
Conclusion
Blocking unwanted calls is no longer a hassle for iPhone users. Whether you want to use the built-in iOS feature, Do Not Disturb, third-party apps, call blocking services, or Siri, the solutions are limitless. Try different methods and see which one works best for you. No more spam calls or unwanted interruptions from unknown numbers, you can make and receive calls in peace.