*Some* calls to my iPhone go straight to voice mail

I have been finding that some calls to my iPhone are going straight to voicemail. This can happen to calls from regular contacts or first time callers. However other calls just ring as normal.


The only 'fix' I have found is to turn Airplane Mode on and then off again. If I do this numbers that previously went to voicemail can get through for a time but then start going back to voicemail again in a few days later (possibly after I've turned the phone off and on).


I have done all the checks suggested in previous threads on calls going to voicemail. In particular, I have made sure that "Silence Unknown Callers" is off and that none of the calls are coming from the three numbers in Blocked Contacts.


Any other suggestions?



iPhone 4s, iOS 9

Posted on Jan 11, 2024 5:10 AM

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Posted on Mar 30, 2024 12:36 PM

It seems that the issue was caused by my UK cell phone provider (Plusnet) who use the EE network. Plusnet claim that the issue is caused by EE turning off their old 3G network. As they are now in the process of migrating their whole service to EE they suggest that if I move my account to EE that will solve the problem - which seems a bit contradictory and they haven't been able to clearly explain why that should make a difference.


However as they are now offering a really good deal if I move I will try it - but if the problem persists I am going to switch to another network altogether.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 30, 2024 12:36 PM in response to Ak1018-

It seems that the issue was caused by my UK cell phone provider (Plusnet) who use the EE network. Plusnet claim that the issue is caused by EE turning off their old 3G network. As they are now in the process of migrating their whole service to EE they suggest that if I move my account to EE that will solve the problem - which seems a bit contradictory and they haven't been able to clearly explain why that should make a difference.


However as they are now offering a really good deal if I move I will try it - but if the problem persists I am going to switch to another network altogether.

Jan 11, 2024 5:12 AM in response to dannygolding

  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.


Jan 11, 2024 6:05 AM in response to SravanKrA

Thanks @SravanKrA.


As I said in my OP I have done the checks on your list already but I've just repeated them all in case I missed anything - which I hadn't.


The strange thing in my case is that some calls go straight to voicemail while others ring normally. Yesterday in quick succession I had one call ring get through to my phone and then next go straight to voicemail for no obvious reason. The calls that go straight to voicemail don't even show up as "recent" incoming numbers. You would not expect this inconsistent behaviour if, say, do not disturb had inadvertently been switched on.


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*Some* calls to my iPhone go straight to voice mail

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