Apple’s iOS 26 Blocks Unknown Calls Automatically – Here’s How It Works

iPhone users can now reduce interruptions from spam calls and unsolicited offers with a new feature in Apple’s latest iOS 26 update. The feature, called Call Screening, automatically manages incoming calls from unknown numbers, providing users with details before they decide to answer.

Unlike standard spam detection, Call Screening answers calls on the user’s behalf and collects information from the caller in real time. Users can read the caller’s intent immediately, allowing them to either pick up or send the call to voicemail. The tool aims to prevent scams and unwanted calls that pose as banks or service providers.

Call Screening is integrated with Apple’s Live Voicemail feature, which transcribes messages as they are left. This allows users to read messages without listening to them, offering convenience and reducing the need for constant interruptions.

The iOS 26 update also reorganizes the Phone app interface. Favourites, Recents, and Voicemails are now combined into a single view, streamlining navigation. A new Hold Assist feature notifies users the moment a real person picks up a call, minimizing time spent on hold.

Activating Call Screening is straightforward. After updating to iOS 26, users can go to Settings → Phone → Call Screening to enable the feature. Options are available to customize which calls are screened and how notifications appear.

Apple’s new features provide iPhone users with more control over incoming calls and reduce exposure to potential scams. By filtering unknown numbers and offering real-time information, Call Screening addresses a common source of daily phone disruptions.