I can’t answer some phone calls.

I see incoming call. I push answer, and sometimes everything works fine. Other times, call timer doesn’t start, there’s no one on the line, and callers report being sent directly to voicemail. There doesn’t seem to be a trend related to what/who the the source of the incoming call is, or time of day, etc.


THIS IS A BRAND NEW 14 PRO.


If call answer failure occurs, I am unable to immediately call the caller back. It’ll show “CALL FAILED”


This has been an intermittent source of serious frustration for me. When I had the 13 Pro, the guy at the store just put in a new SIM card—-didn’t help. A week later he switched me to an eSIM—-didn’t work. I then bought a new phone, and same crap is happening.


And NO, Airplane Mode is not on 🤣

iPhone 14 Pro, iOS 16

Posted on Sep 9, 2023 7:51 AM

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6 replies

Sep 9, 2023 8:55 AM in response to wgordon

  1. Check your DND status - If you're experiencing issues with notifications or incoming calls, it's important to check your Do Not Disturb (DND) status. On most devices, you can access this setting by going to "Settings" and selecting "Do Not Disturb." Make sure DND is turned off or adjust the settings to allow desired notifications and calls to come through.
  2. Check BedTime status - If you're using the Bedtime feature on your iPhone, you can track your sleep patterns and set a schedule for waking up and going to bed. To check your Bedtime status, open the "Clock" app and tap on the "Bedtime" tab. Ensure that your sleep schedule is accurately configured, allowing your device to provide sleep analysis and reminders accordingly.
  3. Check your Sound Volume - If you're experiencing low or no sound on your iPhone, it's essential to check your sound volume settings. You can adjust the volume by using the physical volume buttons on the side of your device or by going to "Settings" and selecting "Sounds & Haptics." Ensure that the volume is turned up and not muted.
  4. Check your Ringer switch - If you're not receiving any sound notifications for calls or messages, it's important to check the position of your device's ringer switch. Depending on the model of your iPhone, the ringer switch is located on the side or top of the device. Make sure the switch is not set to the silent or muted position.
  5. Check Call Audio Routing - If you're having issues with audio during calls, such as not hearing the caller or distorted sound, you should check the Call Audio Routing settings. On an iPhone, you can access this by going to "Settings," selecting "Accessibility," and then "Audio/Visual." Ensure that the audio routing is set to the desired option, such as Bluetooth, speaker, or automatic.
  6. Check Auto Answer Calls - If your iPhone is automatically answering calls without your input, it's important to disable the Auto Answer Calls feature. Go to "Settings," select "Accessibility," and then "Touch." From there, disable the "Auto Answer Calls" option to regain control over incoming calls.
  7. Check Connection with Bluetooth Audio - If you're having trouble streaming audio from your iPhone to Bluetooth devices, it's crucial to check the Bluetooth connection. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in the device settings, and try reconnecting your iPhone to the Bluetooth audio device. If the problem persists, you may need to unpair and repair the devices or troubleshoot further using Apple Support resources.
  8. Check whether in Headset Mode - If your iPhone seems stuck in headphone mode despite no headphones being connected, it could be a software issue. You can try solving this by cleaning the headphone jack with compressed air or gently inserting and removing headphones a few times. If the problem persists, you may need to seek assistance from Apple Support for further troubleshooting steps or possible repairs.


Sep 9, 2023 8:56 AM in response to wgordon

Does this happen with all calls or some specfic type of Calls? On an iPhone, you can make and receive various types of calls. Here are the different types:


  1. These are standard voice calls made over the cellular network. They utilize your carrier's voice network to connect you with other phone numbers. Allow phone calls on your iPad, iPod touch, and Mac
  2. FaceTime Audio allows you to make voice calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data using your internet connection. It provides higher audio quality compared to traditional cellular calls.
  3. FaceTime Video enables you to have video calls with other FaceTime users. It uses the front or rear camera on your iPhone to transmit live video during the call. Use FaceTime with your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support (IN)
  4. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls use internet connectivity to make phone calls. Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Hangouts utilize this technology, allowing you to make voice and video calls over the Internet.
  5. Some carriers support Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of relying solely on cellular coverage. This can be useful in areas with weak cellular reception. Make a call with Wi-Fi Calling - Apple Support (IN)
  6. The App Store offers numerous calling apps that utilize different technologies. These apps can provide additional features and options for making calls, such as international calling, call recording, and more.


It's important to note that the availability of certain call types may depend on your iPhone model, iOS version, and carrier.


Sep 9, 2023 9:12 AM in response to SravanKrA

Thank you for your reply. Unfortunately, I’ve troubleshot all of these, and the problem remains. If this wasn’t a brand new phone (and my “old” 13 Pro wasn’t very old at all), I’d attribute the issue to a phone malfunction, rather than a mode/feature that was left on/off.


ALL call varieties have been affected, BUT not every single time…it’s a sporadic event. Might occur next three phone calls, and then everything is fine for a day or so. My location doesn’t seem to matter.


When the malfunction/issue occurs, I have to restart my phone in order for the “phone” function of my phone to operate again.


It truly is maddening!

Jun 28, 2024 10:12 AM in response to wgordon

I am having the same exact problem. It occured with an iPhone XR and now with a new iPhone 14. It seems to happen randomly. I have shutdown and restarted the phone and it still happens. I've disabled Wi-Fi calling thinking that may be the cause but it still happens. It happened to me on Verizon and now on PureTalk so the carrier doesn't seem to be the cause. Software is at latest version and DND is not the problem.


This is extremely frustrating...

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I can’t answer some phone calls.

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