Apple Just Added A Powerful Anti-Scam Tool To iPhones — Here’s How To Activate It
Spam calls have become a modern nuisance, with imposters and telemarketers constantly trying to reach us. A fresh, no-cost feature built into iPhone software aims to curb the interruptions by turning the phone into a smarter gatekeeper. The idea is simple: let a trusted system handle the uncertain callers so you don’t waste time on guesswork or unnecessary conversations.
What this feature does
When turned on, the system acts as a courteous bouncer for unknown numbers. Instead of instantly ringing through, your phone prompts the caller to reveal who they are and why they’re calling. The response is captured as a short, readable note, and you can tell the assistant to gather more information, answer the call, or block it entirely. In short, you get a clearer sense of who is on the line before you pick up.
The mechanism is built to strike a balance. It avoids sending every unknown call straight to voicemail, which can be frustrating if a legitimate number is trying to reach you, while still offering a robust defense against scams and nuisances.
How to activate it
- Make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version (iOS 26 or newer) through the General > Software Update settings.
- Open Settings, go to Phone, and locate the option labeled Screen Unknown Callers.
- Select your preferred level of screening. One option, often described as a middle ground, asks the caller to state the reason for the call before it reaches you. Other choices may include directing unknown calls to voicemail or applying stricter screening rules.
Why this helps
For many, the biggest benefit is time. A quick, automated inquiry from the caller can weed out obvious scams without pulling you into a back-and-forth. If the call is legitimate, the caller typically provides a clear reason for calling, and you can decide how to proceed. If not, the system gives you the option to ignore or block, reducing repeated interruptions throughout the day.
Practical tips for getting the most out of it
- Pair this tool with your existing contact list. Legitimate numbers you have saved can bypass the screening, leaving only unfamiliar numbers to be evaluated.
- Keep your phone’s software up to date. Updates improve the accuracy and reliability of the screening prompts over time.
- Periodically review your blocked or filtered calls. You don’t want to miss important reminders or urgent messages, so adjust settings if you notice a pattern of legitimate calls being filtered.
- If you frequently receive important calls from institutions (your clinic, a bank, a government agency), consider temporarily lowering the screening level for those numbers or adding those numbers to your contacts when appropriate.
What to expect on other platforms
Several other phone ecosystems offer similar screening capabilities, using a digital assistant to identify callers and request context before you answer. These tools share the goal of reducing interruptions while preserving the ability to connect when a call is truly important.
Bottom line
With this new built-in screening option, iPhone users gain a practical, privacy-friendly way to reclaim time and reduce the burden of scam calls. It’s a flexible tool that adapts to how you handle unknown numbers, helping you decide quickly whether to answer, investigate, or ignore.
