Unwanted calls, including spam and robocalls, are a persistent nuisance for many smartphone users. Both TextKiller and Apple's built-in call blocking features aim to mitigate this issue, but how do they compare in effectiveness?
What Is TextKiller and How Does It Work?
TextKiller is a third-party application designed to block unwanted text messages. It utilizes machine learning algorithms to identify and filter out spam texts, claiming to eliminate 99% of such messages. The app maintains a global blocklist, updated in real-time, to protect users from known scams. Users can customize their protection with block and allow lists for both numbers and keywords. (textkiller.com)
How Does Apple's Call Blocking Feature Function?
Apple's iOS offers a built-in feature called "Silence Unknown Callers." When enabled, this feature automatically silences calls from numbers not saved in the user's contacts or previously interacted with. The blocked calls are still logged in the recent calls list, but the user is not notified when they occur. (docs.fcc.gov)
Effectiveness: TextKiller vs. Apple's Call Blocking
TextKiller:
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Pros:
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Utilizes a real-time updated global blocklist to identify and block known spam texts.
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Offers customization through block and allow lists for numbers and keywords.
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Provides a seven-day free trial, after which it costs $69.99 per year or $4.99 weekly. (makeuseof.com)
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Cons:
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Some users report that the app only moves spam messages to a junk folder rather than blocking them outright. (apps.apple.com)
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Requires a subscription after the free trial period.
Apple's Call Blocking:
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Pros:
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Built into iOS, requiring no additional downloads or subscriptions.
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Automatically silences calls from unknown numbers, reducing interruptions.
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Cons:
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Does not block spam texts; it only silences calls.
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Blocked calls are still logged, which may not be ideal for users seeking complete privacy.
User Experiences and Reviews
User reviews of TextKiller are mixed. Some users praise its effectiveness in reducing spam texts, while others express concerns about its functionality and subscription costs. (apps.apple.com)
Conclusion: Which Is More Effective?
For users seeking to block unwanted text messages, TextKiller offers a specialized solution with its real-time updated blocklist and customization options. However, it requires a subscription after the free trial period, and some users report that it only moves spam messages to a junk folder rather than blocking them outright. (apps.apple.com)
Apple's built-in call blocking feature is effective for silencing calls from unknown numbers but does not address spam texts. Therefore, for comprehensive protection against unwanted communications, a combination of both TextKiller for text messages and Apple's call blocking feature for calls may be the most effective approach.
Highlights:
- You Can Prevent Smishing Scams With These Features and Tricks, Published on Sunday, November 17
- Call Blocking Tools Now Substantially Available to Consumers:, Published on Tuesday, November 19
- Federal Communications Commission, Published on Friday, November 07
