How to block numbers on iPhone SE after iOS 26 update?

blue23rose wrote:

Before IOS 26 update, if I received a call from an unknown number that was definitely spam, I could select the "i" next to the number, go to the bottom of the screen and select "block caller".

Other posts in the list have told you how to do this. HOWEVER, it is pointless to block a number that was definitely spam, because spammers use a different number each time. So you end up with hundreds of blocked numbers that will never call you.

This is a very useful call on the issue that I have also been having.

The only issue now is that there is no "orange hand" amongst the icons. Only a blue clock and a red trash can.

Back to you, Apple.

To everyone in this thread:

Other posts in the list have told you how to do this. HOWEVER, it is pointless to block a number that was definitely spam, because spammers use a different number each time. So you end up with hundreds of blocked numbers that will never call you. Call blocking is only to block people you know.

georgevargas wrote:

Thank you for your viewpoint regarding "you end up with hundreds of blocked numbers". Please keep in mind that your viewpoint does not address the subject at hand, and to some comes off as scolding.

I have found in these forums (and in life generally) that assuming people have good intentions leads to a much pleasanter experience for me.

And, while you may be aware of the pointlessness of blocking spam numbers, it's possible that other people don't. The solution to a problem is not always the answer to the first question someone asks.

Good point. The solution to this problem is not about the pointlessness of blocking spam calls. For those of us looking for the solution to this specific problem, pointing out that you have hundreds of blocked numbers on your phone is, well, pointless in and of itself. If you, or anyone in this thread has a solution to the actual problem of the block option no longer being available to some users please post it here so that we can have it addressed as is our preference. “Just don’t use it”, isn’t a solution. The block option shows up intermittently on some of our phones when we hit the home button so something is clearly wrong and may be an indication of a much bigger issue. Ignoring it or using a work around is not the solution either. It would be AWSOME to address the issue as stated by the original poster before sharing unsolicited advice or points of view that detract from the original poster’s question.

georgevargas wrote:

It would be AWSOME to address the issue as stated by the original poster before sharing unsolicited advice or points of view that detract from the original poster’s question.

Not surprisingly, you appear to have missed the point of my post.

georgevargas wrote:

I am surprised however that you have not been able to offer a solution to the problem that the option is not showing up.

Unfortunately, despite what you apparently have assumed, I am not omniscient. Sorry to disappoint.

blue23rose

Author

User level:

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27 points

More Steps to Blocking Callers after IOS 26 update 

Before IOS 26 update, if I received a call from an unknown number that was definitely spam, I could select the "i" next to the number, go to the bottom of the screen and select "block caller".

Now, after IOS 26 update, that option is gone on my phone. Using the classic view, the "i" is still there, but I have to go to "Settings", "Apps", "Phone", "Blocked Contacts", "Add Blocked Contact", enter the phone number, then tap "Block Contact".

Why did Apple make it harder to block unknown callers???

iPhone SE, iOS 26

Posted on Oct 12, 2025 12:15 AM

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melindo5074 wrote:

Why did Apple make it harder to block unknown callers???

Really basic question: Why are you blocking spam calls? That spammer’s number will never call you again. Spammers intentionally use a different fake number for each call, expressly to make spam call blocking useless.

Call blocking is only useful to block someone you know from calling you.

GreyArcher29 wrote:

Your reply isn't relevant to the thread.

He's spot on.

And you're wrong.

Not in this case.

I get repeat calls from the same number - I don't know them and they're unsolicited marketing calls.

There's a word for such calls.

Spam!

You don't know that the calls are from the same number, only that they appear to be from the same number. That's a huge difference.

The reply isn't relevant - it doesn't address the question about the removal of the ability to block calls.

Actually I do know the calls are from the same number.

Please refrain from trying to man-splain what I do or do not know.

Exactly my point last week! Progress by programmers - real engineers would advance technological changes, not just tinker (my Dad and grandfather were both engineers, my eldest son is a mechanical engineer working in the USA).

georgevargas wrote:

I switched back to Unified mode and it would also only appear on phone numbers that were not in my contact list. Have no clue as to the rhyme or reason. This method is not working on my iPhone SE 2.

Because you can block a contact at any time by opening their contact card.