Dealing with unwanted calls and messages on your iOS device can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to reduce these interruptions.
Built-in iOS Features
How can I use iOS's native features to block unwanted calls?
iOS offers several built-in features to help manage unwanted calls:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri Suggestions, sending them directly to voicemail. To enable it:
- Go to Settings > Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.
- Call Blocking & Identification: This allows third-party apps to identify and block spam calls. To set it up:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.
- Enable the desired apps.
- Call Screening: Introduced in iOS 26, this feature prompts unknown callers to state their name and reason for calling before your phone rings. To activate it:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Screen Unknown Callers.
- Select Ask Reason for Calling.
Third-Party Apps
What are the best third-party apps to block spam calls on iOS?
Several apps can enhance your iOS device's ability to block unwanted calls:
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Robokiller: This app uses a global database of 1.5 billion phone numbers and real-time call screening to block spam calls. It also offers customizable block and allow lists and provides voicemail transcription and visual voicemail. (robokiller.com)
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Truecaller: Truecaller identifies spam, fraud, and robocalls before you pick up and offers features like caller ID, spam blocking, and AI-powered call screening. However, some advanced features require a Premium subscription. (support.truecaller.com)
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Hiya: Hiya provides caller ID and spam protection, blocking scam and spam calls and displaying caller names and reasons for calls. It also offers network-level integration via carriers and OEMs. (robokiller.com)
How do these apps compare in terms of features and pricing?
Robokiller offers a comprehensive suite of features, including real-time call screening, customizable block and allow lists, and voicemail transcription. While Truecaller and Hiya provide similar functionalities, Robokiller's focus on user control and its unique Answer Bots feature set it apart. Pricing varies among these apps, with Robokiller offering a 7-day free trial and subsequent subscription plans. (robokiller.com)
What are the setup steps to enable spam call blocking on iOS?
To set up spam call blocking on your iOS device:
- Enable Built-in Features:
- Activate Silence Unknown Callers and Call Screening as described above.
- Install a Third-Party App:
- Download your chosen app from the App Store.
- Follow the app's setup instructions to enable call blocking and identification.
What we recommend
- For Comprehensive Protection: Consider using Robokiller for its extensive features and user control.
- For Advanced Call Screening: Utilize iOS's Call Screening feature to filter unknown callers.
- For Community-Based Spam Detection: Truecaller offers a large user base contributing to its spam detection capabilities.
By combining these built-in features and third-party apps, you can significantly reduce phone interruptions on your iOS device.
