The iPhone 6S offers several ways to block and filter unwanted calls. Here is a detailed guide on the various methods available and how to use them effectively.
Table of Contents
Use Do Not Disturb
The Do Not Disturb feature allows you to silence calls, alerts and notifications for a set period of time. You can customize it to allow calls from certain contacts even when Do Not Disturb is turned on.
To Enable Do Not Disturb:
- Open Settings app > Do Not Disturb
- Toggle on Do Not Disturb
- Tap Scheduled to set up a schedule when you want Do Not Disturb to turn on automatically, like at night when you sleep
- Tap Allow Calls From to choose contacts that can still call you
- Tap Repeated Calls and toggle it on to allow a second call from the same person within 3 minutes to come through
To Quickly Turn on Do Not Disturb:
- Swipe down from top of screen to open Control Center
- Tap the crescent moon icon
Block Calls and Messages from Specific People
You can block calls, messages and FaceTime from people you don’t want to hear from. Their calls will go straight to voicemail.
To Block a Number/Contact:
- Open Phone app > Favorites, Recents or Voicemail
- Tap info (i) icon next to the number/contact
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
To Manage Blocked Contacts:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts
- Tap Edit to delete contacts from the list
Silence Unknown Callers
The “Silence Unknown Callers” feature blocks all calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent outgoing calls or Siri Suggestions. It’s useful to avoid spam calls.
To Enable:
- Go to Settings > Phone
- Scroll down and toggle on Silence Unknown Callers
Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
You can install call blocking apps from the App Store to automatically detect and block spam calls. Some popular options:
- Nomorobo
- Truecaller
- Hiya
These apps maintain their own spam call databases. When you get a call, they cross-check the number against their database and block any matches.
To Use Call Blocking Apps:
- Download the app from the App Store
- Open the app and enable call blocking
- Allow the app to access your contacts and call logs when prompted
- You’ll now see “Potential Spam” or the app’s label next to spam calls in Phone app
Hide Your Caller ID When Making Calls
You can hide your number when making calls so the recipient can’t see it. This prevents them from calling you back directly.
To Hide Number Temporarily:
- Dial *67 followed by the number you want to call
- Your number will be hidden for this call only
To Permanently Enable Caller ID Blocking:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID
- Toggle off Show My Caller ID
Unblock Numbers
You can unblock contacts you previously blocked if needed.
To Unblock a Number:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts
- Tap Edit
- Tap red minus icon next to the contact
- Tap Done to save changes
Conclusion
The iPhone 6S provides robust call blocking and filtering capabilities out of the box. Make use of Do Not Disturb schedules, contact blocking, app-based call blocking and caller ID blocking to stop unwanted calls. Stay safe from spam and telemarketers while allowing calls from important people with these helpful iPhone features.
