I. Introduction
Blocking unwanted calls is an important function of any smartphone, especially when we’re constantly bombarded by spam calls and telemarketing pitches. Fortunately, Apple provides several options to block calls on the iPhone. In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the basic options, how to block a number, using third-party apps, the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature, updating the block list, and additional tips to successfully block calls.
II. Basic options for blocking calls on iPhone
A couple of convenient options are built into the iPhone for blocking calls. Here are the most basic ones:
A. Adding numbers to the blocked list
Adding a number to the blocked list is a simple process and is easy to access. From the Settings app, go to “Phone” and then “Blocked Contacts.” You will see the list of already blocked numbers. Click on “Add New” and then insert the phone number you’d like to block. Alternatively, you can block any contact by opening their information in the “Contacts” app and scrolling down to the bottom to select “Block this Caller.”
B. Toggling on the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature
The “Silence Unknown Callers” feature can be turned on from the Settings app under “Phone.” This feature automatically sends calls from numbers not saved in your contacts straight to voicemail, without the phone ringing or vibrating.
III. How to block a number on iPhone
If you receive a call from a number that you’d like to block, here are the steps you should follow:
A. Step-by-step instructions to block a contact or a recent call
- Go to the “Phone” app and select the “Recents” tab
- Find the number you want to block and press the “i” icon next to it
- Scroll down and click “Block this Caller”
- Confirm the selection by tapping “Block Contact”
To block a contact:
- Go to the “Contacts” app and find the contact you want to block
- Scroll down and click “Block this Caller”
- Confirm the selection by tapping “Block Contact”
B. Tips to confirm if the number is blocked
If you’re unsure if the number has been blocked, there are a few steps you can take:
- Check the “Blocked Contacts” list
- Ask someone to try to call you from the blocked number to see if their call goes through
- Attempt to call the blocked number yourself
IV. Using third-party apps to block unwanted calls
If you’re looking for more advanced blocking features, consider using third-party apps. Here are some popular options:
A. Overview of popular call-blocking apps on App Store
- Truecaller: Identifies and blocks spam calls, allows for caller ID, and can block SMS messages as well.
- Nomorobo: Primarily for blocking telemarketing calls, blocks over 800,000 numbers and can even block robocalls.
- RoboKiller: Uses AI to block robocalls and telemarketing calls while allowing calls from contacts to come through, can play pre-recorded “answer bots” to waste telemarketers’ time.
B. Benefits of using such apps
One of the biggest advantages of using a third-party call-blocking app is that it can identify and block spam calls before the phone even rings. Additionally, these apps can provide features like call recording and transcription, caller ID, and SMS blocking.
V. Benefits of using call-blocking apps
Let’s explore some of the benefits of call-blocking apps in more detail:
A. Identification and blocking of spam calls before the phone rings
As mentioned above, call-blocking apps can identify and block spam calls before the phone rings. This feature is especially useful for those who receive frequent spam calls during the day.
B. Additional features of call-recording and others
Many call-blocking apps come with additional features such as call recording and transcription, SMS blocking, and caller ID. These features offer users a complete solution to manage their incoming calls and messages.
VI. Updating call block list
It’s important to frequently update your block list to ensure that unwanted calls are continuously blocked.
A. Instructions on how to add new numbers to the blocked list
Add a new number to the block list by following these steps:
- Go to “Settings” and select “Phone”
- Select “Blocked Contacts”
- Select “Add New” and add the number you want to block
B. The importance of updating the list
Regularly updating the block list ensures that unwanted calls are continuously blocked and that the list is always up-to-date with numbers that should not be able to reach you.
VII. Silence Unknown Callers feature
A. Explanation of this feature
The “Silence Unknown Callers” feature blocks calls from numbers that aren’t saved in your contacts. Calls from these numbers are automatically sent to voicemail, without the phone ringing or vibrating.
B. Purpose of this feature
The purpose of the feature is to block spam callers and unwanted calls from reaching you. This feature is useful for those who receive many unsolicited calls.
VIII. Additional tips for successful blocking of calls
A. Using the “Do Not Disturb” mode
The “Do Not Disturb” mode blocks incoming calls, messages, and notifications. It is a good option if you’re in a meeting or simply need some quiet time.
B. Checking voicemail for missed calls from blocked numbers
Blocked numbers will still be able to leave voicemails. It’s important to check your voicemail regularly to ensure that no important messages were missed.
IX. Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone has many built-in options for blocking unwanted calls, including adding numbers to the blocked list and turning on the “Silence Unknown Calls” feature. Additionally, third-party call-blocking apps offer even more advanced features. It’s important to frequently update your block list and to check voicemails for missed calls from blocked numbers. With these tips, you should be well-equipped to handle unwanted calls on your iPhone.
Key points to remember:
- Use built-in options to block phone numbers and the “Silence Unknown Calls” feature
- Third-party call-blocking apps offer advanced features
- Update your block list frequently
- Check voicemails for missed calls from blocked numbers
Taking charge and blocking unwanted calls can help you reclaim your time and sanity, and these simple steps will help you get there.
