iOS 26 Adds Call Screening to Combat Spam Calls
- Apple introduces a new feature to help iPhone users manage unknown callers more effectively.
Apple’s latest iOS 26 update includes a new call screening feature designed to reduce the impact of spam and robocalls on iPhone users. This tool acts as a virtual gatekeeper, prompting unknown callers to identify themselves before the phone rings. The feature has gained attention due to the growing frustration with unsolicited calls, which continue to disrupt users despite existing blocking tools. With this addition, Apple aims to offer a middle ground between silencing all unknown calls and allowing them through unchecked.
Enabling and Configuring the Feature
To activate call screening, users must first update their device to iOS 26, which supports iPhone 11 and newer models. Once updated, the feature can be found under Settings → Apps → Phone, where a new option labeled “Screen Unknown Callers” appears. Three choices are available: “Never,” which allows all calls through; “Silence,” which sends them directly to voicemail; and “Ask Reason for Calling,” which prompts the caller to state their name and purpose. If the option doesn’t appear, adjusting the region and language settings may resolve the issue, as some users have reported success after switching to supported locales like the United Kingdom.
The screening process begins when an unknown number calls, triggering a Siri-like voice to request identification. While this happens, the user receives a notification and sees the caller’s response transcribed in real time. Based on the information provided, the user can choose to answer, ignore, or respond with a pre-written or custom message. The phone continues to ring during this interaction, allowing time to decide.
Early Feedback and Limitations
Initial reactions to the feature have been mixed, with some users praising its effectiveness and others noting limitations. One user found it helpful for filtering out marketing calls, while another experienced issues with legitimate callers, such as delivery drivers, hanging up prematurely. These cases suggest that not all callers understand they need to interact with the screening prompt. Additionally, some users have reported confusion when callers provide the recipient’s name instead of their own, leading to mistaken identity and unnecessary engagement.
Despite these challenges, the feature offers a useful alternative to existing call management options. It allows users to screen calls without completely blocking unknown numbers, which can be important for receiving time-sensitive or unexpected communications. Apple has made it easy to disable the feature if it proves inconvenient, giving users control over their call experience. Continued refinement may improve usability and caller awareness over time.
Comparison with Android Solutions
Apple’s move follows similar developments from Android manufacturers, particularly Google, which introduced call screening for Pixel devices several years ago. Google’s version is more automated, using AI to assess caller intent and disconnect suspected spam calls without user intervention. The company recently expanded the feature to Australia, Canada, and Ireland, reflecting growing demand for smarter call management. Samsung also offers a comparable tool through its Bixby assistant, allowing Galaxy users to screen calls via text-based interaction.
While Apple’s implementation is less automated than Google’s, it emphasizes user control and privacy by keeping processing on the device. The feature represents a step forward in addressing the persistent issue of nuisance calls, though its effectiveness will depend on user adoption and caller behavior. As more users engage with call screening, awareness among legitimate callers may improve, reducing unintended missed connections. The broader trend suggests that AI-driven call management is becoming a standard expectation across mobile platforms.
- Apple’s call screening feature does not store or transmit caller responses to external servers. All processing occurs locally on the device, which helps preserve user privacy while still offering real-time transcription and interaction.
