Apple has taken another leap forward with its iOS updates, recently releasing the third public beta of iOS 26 on August 14. This version introduces several exciting features, including a sleek new Liquid Glass design and the ability to customize your alarm’s snooze duration, enhancing user experience across the board. Alongside these aesthetic improvements, iOS 26 brings an essential new feature aimed at tackling an all-too-common annoyance: spam calls.
The newly implemented call screening feature is not restricted to Apple’s specialized intelligence; it’s available on any iOS 26-compatible device, including the iPhone 14 Pro. Users will need to activate the feature themselves, but once they do, they can enjoy a noticeable reduction in spam calls disrupting their day. During my early beta testing of this feature, it managed to block unwanted spam, proving to be a reliable solution.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that since iOS 26 is still in the beta phase, users may encounter some bugs, and battery performance could take a hit. To mitigate potential issues, it’s wise to install beta software on a secondary device rather than your primary iPhone.
How to Enable Call Screening on Your iPhone
1. Tap Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap Apps.
3. Select Phone.
Within the Screen Unknown Callers section, you’ll find three options: Never, Ask Reason for Calling, and Silence. Understanding each option can help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Choosing the Right Call Screening Option
The “Never” option allows calls from unsaved numbers to ring through normally, and it also logs missed calls in your Recents list as usual. This is the default behavior of your Phone app.
If you opt for “Ask Reason for Calling,” your iPhone will prompt anyone dialing from an unsaved number to explain why they’re calling, all without disturbing you with a ring. After responding to a few questions, you’ll receive a transcript of their answers, making it easier for you to decide whether to answer or ignore the call.
Choosing “Silence” is the most assertive method for managing spam. Calls from unsaved numbers will not disturb you and will automatically be sent to voicemail. For many users, “Ask Reason for Calling” is the optimal choice. Personally, it helped me screen unwanted spam while ensuring I didn’t miss important calls, such as from my doctor.
If later you find “Ask Reason for Calling” frustrating, you can simply revisit the settings and switch to another option. There’s also the option to silence your iPhone altogether, which many users, including my wife, find liberating from unwanted interruptions.
As iOS 26 continues to evolve, there’s much more to look forward to. Not only are there new ringtones to accompany the update, but further refinements to the Liquid Glass effects in future versions are expected. Keep your iPhone primed for these enhancements and enjoy a smoother, more user-friendly experience this fall.