Getting calls from unknown numbers can be annoying. Whether it’s telemarketers or robocalls, they often interrupt your day. Luckily, your iPhone 17 includes a built-in feature that automatically silences calls from numbers not saved in your contacts.
This feature helps reduce distractions and unwanted calls without blocking legitimate ones. Let’s see how to enable it on your device.
Why You Might Want to Silence Unknown Callers
- To avoid spam and robocalls.
- To stay focused without random interruptions.
- To keep your phone quiet during meetings or rest hours.
- To automatically filter unknown numbers while still receiving voicemails.
Enable Silence Unknown Callers.
The feature works by automatically sending calls from numbers not in your contacts or recent call list straight to voicemail. You’ll still see them in the Recents tab, but your phone won’t ring.
- Open Settings, and then tap Phone.
- Scroll down, and then tap Silence Unknown Callers.
Toggle the switch to turn it on. Once enabled, only your saved contacts, recent numbers, and Siri suggestions will ring through.
Keep Important Calls From Being Missed.
If you have pending calls from deliveries, new clients, or appointments, you might want to temporarily disable the feature. That way, you won’t miss important calls from numbers you don’t yet have saved.
- Open Settings, and then tap Phone.
- Tap Silence Unknown Callers, and then toggle the switch off.
Your iPhone will now ring for every call until you turn it back on again.
Update iOS.
If Silence Unknown Callers is not appearing or not working properly, updating your software can fix hidden glitches. Apple regularly improves these system features with each update.
- Open Settings, and then tap General.
- Tap Software Update, and then install any available updates.
After updating, restart your iPhone and test if the feature works correctly.
Silencing unknown callers is a small but powerful way to take control of your phone’s interruptions. Once set up, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that only the calls that matter reach you.
FAQs
Will silenced calls show up in my call log?
Yes. The calls will still appear in your Recents tab, and the caller can leave a voicemail if needed.
Does this block unknown callers completely?
No. It only silences them. The call still goes through but without ringing your phone.
Can I whitelist certain numbers?
Yes. Adding a number to your Contacts automatically allows it to bypass the silence filter and ring normally.
