Can’t Make Calls? iPhone Troubleshooting (iOS 17)

Facing the frustration of an iPhone displaying “No Service” or constantly dropping calls after the iOS 17 update? Many users contacting Apple Support are reporting that they can’t make calls, despite having a strong Wi-Fi connection or cellular data signal strength provided by carriers like Verizon or AT&T. Resolving this issue often involves troubleshooting techniques related to the iPhone’s modem firmware, so let’s explore proven methods to get you reconnected.

There’s a unique frustration in pulling out your iPhone, the device we rely on for, well, everything, only to discover you can’t even make a simple phone call. The irony isn’t lost on us; a device designed for communication suddenly renders you incommunicado.

The Silent Treatment: A Common iPhone Problem

This isn’t an uncommon predicament. Whether it’s a dropped call, a persistent "call failed" message, or simply no dial tone, iPhone users frequently encounter issues with their calling functionality. It disrupts our personal lives, hinders our professional responsibilities, and generally leaves us feeling disconnected.

Your Guide to Restoring Voice Communication

The purpose of this article is simple: to guide you through a series of troubleshooting steps that will hopefully restore your iPhone’s calling capabilities. We’ll explore common culprits, delve into potential solutions, and empower you to take control of the situation.

A Comprehensive Approach to a Solvable Problem

Rest assured, most calling issues on iPhones are solvable. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach, starting with the easiest fixes and progressing to more advanced solutions. We will cover everything from simple setting adjustments to more complex, but understandable, network and software adjustments.

So, before you resign yourself to a life of voiceless texts, let’s embark on this journey to reclaim your iPhone’s voice.

Quick Checks and Easy Fixes: The First Line of Defense

There’s a unique frustration in pulling out your iPhone, the device we rely on for, well, everything, only to discover you can’t even make a simple phone call. The irony isn’t lost on us; a device designed for communication suddenly renders you incommunicado.

The Silent Treatment: A Common iPhone Problem

This isn’t an uncommon predicament. Whether it’s a dropped call, a total inability to dial out, or the sinking feeling that your iPhone is mocking your attempts to connect, knowing where to start troubleshooting is key.

Before diving into more complex fixes, let’s tackle the low-hanging fruit. These are the quick, user-initiated checks that often resolve the most common calling issues. Think of it as your iPhone first-aid kit.

Airplane Mode: Are You Grounded?

The culprit is often a simple one: Airplane Mode. This feature is designed to quickly disable all wireless communication on your iPhone, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. It’s incredibly useful when flying (hence the name), but easily toggled on accidentally.

How to Check and Disable Airplane Mode:

The easiest way is via the Control Center:

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen (on iPhone X and later) or swipe up from the bottom (on iPhone 8 and earlier).
2. Look for the airplane icon. If it’s lit up (usually orange or white), Airplane Mode is enabled.
3. Simply tap the icon to turn it off.

You can also check within the Settings App:

1. Open the Settings App.
2. At the very top, you’ll see an Airplane Mode toggle.
3. Ensure the slider is set to the left (indicating "off").

Cellular Service: Ensuring Connectivity

Seems obvious, right? But sometimes we overlook the fundamentals. To make calls, your iPhone needs a stable connection to your cellular network.

How to Verify Cellular Data is Turned On:

1. Open the Settings App.
2. Tap on "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data" in some regions).
3. Ensure the "Cellular Data" toggle is switched on (green).
4. Also check that the phone app is toggled on to use cellular data.

While you’re there, ensure that "Voice & Data" option is set to either "4G," "5G," or "LTE" (depending on your carrier and plan) for optimal voice quality. If it’s set to "Data Only", voice calls may not work correctly.

Do Not Disturb: Silencing Calls?

Do Not Disturb (DND) is a feature designed to silence incoming calls, notifications, and alerts. It’s fantastic for focusing or getting some peace and quiet, but it can be the silent killer of your phone’s calling functionality.

How to Check and Disable Do Not Disturb:

Again, the Control Center provides the quickest access:

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner or swipe up from the bottom.
2. Look for the crescent moon icon. If it’s illuminated, DND is enabled.
3. Tap the icon to turn it off.

Alternatively, you can use the Settings App:

1. Open the Settings App.
2. Tap on "Do Not Disturb".
3. Ensure the "Do Not Disturb" toggle is switched off.

Be mindful of the Scheduled setting within DND, which automatically activates DND during specific times. Make sure this isn’t inadvertently blocking your calls.

Restart Your iPhone: The Universal Remedy

When in doubt, restart. It’s the age-old advice for a reason. Restarting your iPhone clears temporary files, refreshes the system’s memory, and can resolve minor software glitches that may be interfering with its calling functionality.

Think of it as giving your iPhone a quick mental reset.

How to Restart Your iPhone:

The method varies slightly depending on your iPhone model:

• iPhone 8 or later (with Face ID):

  1. Press and hold either the Volume Up or Volume Down button and the Side button (power button) simultaneously until the power-off slider appears.
  2. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone.
  3. After your iPhone turns off, press and hold the Side button again until you see the Apple logo.

• iPhone 7/7 Plus:

  1. Press and hold both the Side button (power button) and the Volume Down button simultaneously.
  2. Continue holding until you see the Apple logo.

• iPhone 6s/6s Plus and earlier (with Home button):

  1. Press and hold both the Side button (power button) and the Home button simultaneously.
  2. Continue holding until you see the Apple logo.

Allow your iPhone a moment to fully restart. Once it’s back on, try making a call to see if the issue has been resolved. You might be surprised how often this simple step does the trick!

Network and Connection Troubleshooting: Getting Back Online

Having exhausted the quick and easy fixes, it’s time to delve deeper into the potential causes of your iPhone’s calling woes. The next area we’ll investigate revolves around network connectivity, the lifeline that allows your device to communicate with the outside world. Let’s get your iPhone back in touch.

Cellular Network Coverage: Finding a Signal

It might seem obvious, but cellular network coverage is paramount for making traditional phone calls. Without a strong enough signal, your iPhone simply won’t be able to connect to the carrier’s network, rendering it unable to place or receive calls.

Signal Strength Indicators

Take a look at the signal strength indicator in the upper-left corner of your iPhone’s screen. Are you seeing full bars, a few bars, or none at all? Fewer bars indicate a weaker signal, potentially hindering your ability to make calls.

The Obvious Solution: Moving to a Better Location

The simplest solution might be to move to a location with better reception. Try walking outside, moving to a different room in your house, or traveling to a less congested area.

Understanding Dead Zones

Dead zones are areas where cellular signal is consistently weak or nonexistent. These can be caused by geographical features (hills, valleys), building materials (concrete, metal), or even network congestion.

If you consistently experience poor signal in a particular location, you might be in a dead zone.

SIM Card Problems: The Key to Your Network

The SIM card is a small, removable card that identifies you to your mobile carrier’s network. It’s essentially the key that unlocks your phone’s ability to connect and make calls.

Ejecting and Inspecting Your SIM Card

A loose, damaged, or improperly inserted SIM card can definitely prevent calls. Here’s how to check it:

1. Power off your iPhone completely.
2. Locate the SIM card tray on the side of your device (check your iPhone model to be sure of location).
3. Insert a SIM eject tool (or a straightened paperclip) into the small hole next to the tray. Gently push until the tray pops out.
4. Carefully remove the SIM card and inspect it for any visible damage.
5. Make sure the SIM Card is clean and dry before reinserting it.
6. Properly reseat the SIM Card, and ensure that the tray is flush with the side of the phone.
7. Power your iPhone back on.

Testing the SIM Card in Another Phone

If possible, try inserting your SIM card into another compatible phone to see if it can make calls. This will help you determine if the problem lies with your SIM card or your iPhone.
If the SIM card works in another phone, the problem is likely with your iPhone. If it doesn’t work in another phone, you may need to contact your mobile carrier for a replacement SIM card.

Carrier Settings Update: Staying Up-to-Date

Mobile carriers often release updates to their network settings to improve performance, fix bugs, and ensure compatibility with the latest devices and technologies. These updates are crucial for optimal calling performance.

How to Check for a Carrier Settings Update

1. Connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network.
2. Go to Settings > General > About.
3. If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt asking you to update your carrier settings.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.

It’s generally a good idea to install any available carrier settings updates to ensure that your iPhone is properly configured for your mobile carrier’s network.

Resetting Network Settings: A Fresh Start

Resetting your iPhone’s network settings can resolve a variety of connectivity issues. This action clears all saved Wi-Fi passwords, cellular settings, VPN configurations, and Bluetooth pairings.

How to Reset Network Settings

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Reset and then select Reset Network Settings.
3. You’ll be prompted to enter your passcode.
4. Confirm that you want to reset network settings.

Warning: This will erase your saved Wi-Fi passwords, so be sure you have them handy before proceeding. After the reset, you’ll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords and reconfigure any VPN settings.

Wi-Fi Calling: Leveraging Your Wi-Fi Network

Wi-Fi Calling allows you to make and receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of your cellular network. This can be particularly useful in areas with weak cellular coverage or when you’re traveling internationally.

Enabling Wi-Fi Calling

1. Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling.
2. Toggle the Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone switch to the "on" position.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Wi-Fi Calling.

Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Calling Issues

• Check Your Wi-Fi Connection: Make sure you’re connected to a stable and reliable Wi-Fi network.
• Router Issues: Restart your Wi-Fi router to resolve any potential connectivity problems.
• Contact Your Carrier: Some carriers may require you to enable Wi-Fi Calling on your account. Contact your carrier’s support team for assistance.
• Quality of Service (QoS): On your Router, ensure that the QoS is set to prioritize data to your iPhone in order to reduce packet loss.

Software-Related Issues: Digging Deeper

Having exhausted the quick and easy fixes, it’s time to delve deeper into the potential causes of your iPhone’s calling woes.

While hardware gremlins and network hiccups often take the blame, sometimes the culprit lies within the intricate world of software.

Let’s examine how outdated software or misconfigured settings might be silently sabotaging your iPhone’s ability to make calls. Let’s get your iPhone back in service!

The Crucial Role of iOS Updates

Think of your iPhone’s operating system, iOS, as its brain. Like any brain, it needs constant care and attention to function optimally.

Apple regularly releases iOS updates to address bugs, improve performance, and enhance security.

Neglecting these updates can lead to a host of problems, including—you guessed it—issues with making and receiving calls.

These updates often include fixes for compatibility issues and software glitches that might be interfering with your phone’s core functions.

Therefore, keeping your iPhone up to date is not just about having the latest features—it’s about ensuring the fundamental functions, like making calls, work reliably.

Checking for and Installing iOS Updates

Fortunately, checking for and installing iOS updates is a straightforward process. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap Software Update.

Your iPhone will automatically check for available updates.

If an update is available, download and install it. Make sure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and have sufficient battery life before starting the update process.

While inconvenient, it’s best practice to do a full backup before upgrading.

Overlooked Blocked Numbers: A Silent Barrier

It’s easy to forget about the Blocked Numbers list in your iPhone’s settings. Numbers added to this list are effectively silenced.

If you’re experiencing issues with receiving calls from specific people, it’s worth double-checking that you haven’t accidentally blocked their numbers.

Reviewing and Editing Your Blocked List

Here’s how to access and manage your Blocked Numbers list:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Phone.
3. Tap Blocked Contacts.

This will display a list of all numbers currently blocked on your iPhone.

Review this list carefully. If you find any numbers that shouldn’t be blocked, simply tap Edit in the upper right corner, then tap the red minus sign next to the number you wish to unblock, and finally tap Unblock.

Sometimes, a number may have been added to the blocked list accidentally. It’s worth a quick look!

Escalating the Issue: When to Seek Professional Help

Having exhausted the quick and easy fixes, it’s time to consider if the issue requires outside assistance from Apple or your carrier.

While many iPhone calling issues can be resolved with a bit of at-home troubleshooting, there comes a point where seeking professional help is the most practical and efficient solution.

Let’s examine when and how to reach out to your mobile carrier and Apple for expert support.

Contacting Mobile Carrier Technical Support: Reaching Out to Your Provider

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your iPhone itself, but rather an issue with your mobile network connection.

In such cases, contacting your mobile carrier’s technical support is the right move.

When should you call them?

If you suspect network issues, like consistently weak signal strength in areas where you previously had a strong connection, the carrier may be best placed to assist.

Also, any account-related problems that may affect service, such as billing discrepancies, suspensions, or SIM card activation issues, are best addressed by your carrier.

It’s always best to be prepared when contacting support.

Before you call, gather relevant information: your account details, the iPhone’s model number, and a detailed description of the problem you’re experiencing.

Make a record of any error messages you’ve encountered, the exact time when the issues started, and the troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.

The more information you can provide, the quicker the support representative can understand the problem and offer a solution.

Contacting Apple Support or Visiting the Genius Bar: Expert Assistance

If you’ve ruled out network-related issues and suspect a problem with your iPhone’s hardware or software, Apple Support is your next destination.

Apple offers various support options, including online resources, phone support, and in-person assistance at an Apple Store.

The Genius Bar, found in Apple Stores, is staffed with trained technicians who can diagnose and repair a wide range of iPhone issues.

When should you contact Apple?

If you suspect hardware damage, such as a broken speaker, microphone, or antenna, seek Apple’s expertise.

Also, if you’re dealing with persistent software glitches that you can’t resolve through basic troubleshooting, Apple’s support team can provide more advanced assistance.

Before you contact Apple Support, try to back up your iPhone.

This will protect your data in case the device needs to be reset or replaced.

Gather your iPhone’s serial number (found in Settings > General > About) and any relevant documentation, such as your purchase receipt.

Be prepared to describe the issue in detail, including when it started, what you were doing when it occurred, and any troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried.

Remember, escalating the issue to professional support is a sign of smart problem-solving, not defeat.

By working with your mobile carrier and Apple, you can leverage their expertise to identify the root cause of your iPhone’s calling issues and get back to making calls with confidence.

Unlikely Scenarios: Exploring More Complex Problems

Having exhausted the quick and easy fixes, it’s time to consider if the issue requires outside assistance from Apple or your carrier.

While many iPhone calling issues can be resolved with a bit of at-home troubleshooting, there comes a point where seeking professional help is the most practical approach. Before you do, though, let’s briefly explore a couple of less common, but still possible, culprits that might be at play.

Hardware Malfunction: A Silent Saboteur

Sometimes, the issue isn’t software or network-related at all. It could be a Hardware Malfunction. While less frequent than software glitches, hardware problems can definitely impact your iPhone’s ability to make calls.

Think of it this way: your iPhone is a complex piece of technology. Its ability to connect to cellular networks and transmit voice data relies on several physical components working in harmony.

If one of these components fails, like the antenna, the phone’s ability to make calls can be severely compromised.

Potential Culprits

What kind of hardware issues are we talking about? Here are a few possibilities:

• Antenna Issues: The antenna is responsible for receiving and transmitting cellular signals. If it’s damaged or malfunctioning, your phone might struggle to connect to the network, leading to dropped calls or an inability to make calls altogether.
• Speaker or Microphone Problems: While these issues might not prevent the call from connecting, they can make it impossible for you to hear the other person or for them to hear you. Test both carefully.
• Internal Component Failure: It’s rare, but internal components on the logic board could also fail, affecting the phone’s overall functionality, including its calling capabilities.

Is it Hardware?

How do you know if you’re dealing with a hardware problem? Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to diagnose without professional help.

However, if you’ve tried all the software troubleshooting steps and the issue persists, a hardware malfunction becomes more likely. Physical damage to the device, such as after a drop, can also be a strong indicator.

Emergency Calls: A Lifeline, Always Available

Even when your iPhone is struggling with cellular service, or even if it doesn’t have a SIM card installed, it’s often still capable of making Emergency Calls.

This is a critical safety feature that uses any available network to connect you to emergency services.

How Emergency Calls Work

Most countries require mobile devices to be able to connect to emergency services (like 911 in North America, 999 in the UK, or 112 in Europe) regardless of whether there’s a valid SIM card present or if the device is locked.

This ensures that anyone can reach out for help in a critical situation.

When to Use Emergency Calls

Obviously, Emergency Calls are reserved for true emergencies—situations where there’s an immediate threat to life, safety, or property.

Misusing this feature can tie up valuable resources and potentially delay assistance for someone who genuinely needs it.

Prevention and Maintenance: Keeping Your iPhone Healthy

After successfully resolving your current calling woes, the focus shifts to preventing them from recurring. Proactive maintenance and a few smart habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of future disruptions to your iPhone’s calling functionality.

Think of it as regular check-ups for your device, ensuring it remains in peak condition for reliable communication. Here’s a look at how to keep your iPhone in optimal calling health:

The Importance of Regular iOS Updates

Staying current with iOS updates is more than just getting the latest features. It’s crucial for stability and security.

Apple regularly releases updates that address bugs, improve performance, and patch vulnerabilities that could affect your iPhone’s overall functionality.

Often, these updates include fixes for issues that directly impact calling capabilities. To ensure you’re running the latest version:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap Software Update.

Your iPhone will automatically check for available updates. If one is available, download and install it.

Keeping Your Carrier Settings Up-to-Date

Similar to iOS updates, carrier settings updates are essential for optimal network performance. These updates, released by your mobile carrier, enhance compatibility between your iPhone and their network. They can improve call quality, data speeds, and overall network connectivity.

To check for carrier settings updates:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap About.

If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt.

Install it immediately to ensure your iPhone is using the most current settings for your carrier’s network.

Protecting and Maintaining Your SIM Card

Your SIM card is the key that connects your iPhone to your carrier’s network. Treating it with care can prevent a surprising number of calling issues.

Avoid exposing your SIM card to extreme temperatures, moisture, or physical damage. While it’s generally safe inside your iPhone, consider these precautions if you ever remove it:

• Handle with care: When removing or inserting the SIM card, use a SIM eject tool (or a straightened paperclip) to avoid damaging the SIM tray or the card itself.
• Keep it clean: Dust and debris can interfere with the SIM card’s connection. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the SIM card if you suspect it’s dirty.
• Proper storage: If you’re not using the SIM card, store it in a safe place away from static electricity and physical harm.

By following these simple steps, you can maintain the integrity of your SIM card and minimize the risk of calling problems.

Proactive Maintenance: A Long-Term Strategy

Prevention is always better than cure. Regularly updating your iPhone’s software and carrier settings, and taking care of your SIM card, are proactive measures that can help keep your iPhone in excellent calling health.

By incorporating these simple habits into your routine, you can enjoy reliable communication and avoid the frustration of unexpected calling issues.

So, if you find yourself in that frustrating "can’t make calls" situation on your iPhone after the iOS 17 update, don’t panic! Just run through these troubleshooting steps, and you’ll hopefully be chatting away in no time. And if all else fails, remember Apple Support is always there to lend a hand.