iOS 26 Unveils Enhanced Phone App with Advanced Call Screening
Apple has rolled out a significant update to the Phone application in iOS 26, introducing a redesigned interface and new functionalities. These enhancements are part of a broader emphasis on upgrading core communication applications across the platform, including both Messages and Phone.
A significant new feature within the Phone app is the 'Ask Reason for Calling' call screening option.
Evolving Call Screening: Addressing Unknown Callers
Previously, iOS offered an automatic silencing feature for callers not present in a user's contacts, mail, or messages. While this functionality proved effective in combating unwanted spam calls, a notable drawback was its tendency to silence legitimate calls from unknown numbers.
Introducing 'Screen Unknown Callers'
iOS 26 now introduces a new, more sophisticated solution for screening phone calls. This feature is conveniently located in Settings > Apps > Phone, under the 'Screen Unknown Callers' section. Users are presented with three distinct options to manage incoming calls from unsaved numbers:
- Never: Calls from unsaved numbers will ring normally, and any missed calls will appear on the Recents list.
- Ask Reason for Calling: Calls originating from unsaved numbers will prompt the caller for more information, and the iPhone will only ring after this information is provided.
- Silence: Calls from unsaved numbers will be automatically silenced, directed straight to voicemail, and subsequently listed on the Recents list.
The 'Ask Reason for Calling' feature is specifically designed to provide users with upfront information about unknown callers, thereby aiding them in making a more informed decision about whether to answer incoming calls.