Having an iPhone that won’t make calls but can still send text messages can be incredibly frustrating. You rely on your iPhone for communication, and when that functionality is compromised, it can disrupt your daily life. However, fear not! In this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, we will explore various potential causes for this issue and provide detailed solutions to help you get your iPhone back on track.
Check Your Network Connection
One of the first things you should do when experiencing issues with your iPhone’s calling capabilities is to check your network connection. A weak or unstable network connection can prevent your iPhone from making calls, while still allowing it to send text messages. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure you have a strong network connection:
Step 1: Check Cellular Network Coverage
Start by verifying that you are within range of a cellular network. Check the signal bars on the top left corner of your iPhone’s screen. If you have a weak signal or no signal at all, it may explain why you can’t make calls. Move to a different location or go outside to see if the signal improves.
Step 2: Test Wi-Fi Connection
If you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network, it’s worth checking if your iPhone can make calls using cellular data. Disable Wi-Fi temporarily and try making a call. If you can successfully make calls on cellular data, there might be an issue with your Wi-Fi network. Consider resetting your Wi-Fi router or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.
Verify Airplane Mode Settings
It’s not uncommon for Airplane Mode to be accidentally enabled on an iPhone, especially if you’ve recently been traveling or adjusted your phone’s settings. When Airplane Mode is activated, it disables all wireless connections, including the ability to make calls. To verify and disable Airplane Mode:
Step 1: Check Control Center
Swipe down from the top right corner of your iPhone’s screen to access Control Center. Look for the airplane icon, which indicates that Airplane Mode is enabled. If it appears orange or highlighted, tap the airplane icon to disable Airplane Mode.
Step 2: Check Settings
If tapping the airplane icon in Control Center doesn’t disable Airplane Mode, go to the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap on “Airplane Mode.” Ensure that the toggle switch next to Airplane Mode is turned off.
Ensure Do Not Disturb Mode is Off
Another setting that can affect your iPhone’s ability to make calls is Do Not Disturb mode. When enabled, Do Not Disturb prevents incoming calls and notifications from ringing or lighting up the screen. To ensure Do Not Disturb mode is turned off:
Step 1: Check Control Center
Similar to checking Airplane Mode, swipe down from the top right corner of your iPhone’s screen to access Control Center. Look for the crescent moon icon, which indicates that Do Not Disturb mode is enabled. If it appears orange or highlighted, tap the crescent moon icon to disable Do Not Disturb mode.
Step 2: Check Settings
If disabling Do Not Disturb mode from Control Center doesn’t work, open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap on “Do Not Disturb.” Ensure that the toggle switch next to Do Not Disturb is turned off.
Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches that may be causing issues with your iPhone’s calling functionality. Here’s how you can restart your iPhone:
Step 1: Power Off
Press and hold the power button located on the side or top of your iPhone (depending on the model) until the “slide to power off” option appears on the screen.
Step 2: Slide to Power Off
Once the “slide to power off” option appears, swipe the slider from left to right to turn off your iPhone. Wait for a few seconds until the device completely shuts down.
Step 3: Power On
After a few seconds, press and hold the power button again until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the button and wait for your iPhone to boot up. Once it’s ready, try making a call to see if the issue has been resolved.
Update Your iPhone’s Software
Outdated software can sometimes cause calling issues on iPhones. Apple regularly releases software updates that include bug fixes, security patches, and improvements to the overall performance of your device. Here’s how you can check for and install software updates:
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to find the “General” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 2: Select Software Update
In the General settings menu, look for “Software Update” and tap on it. Your iPhone will then check for available updates.
Step 3: Install Updates
If an update is available, you’ll see a message indicating the availability of a software update. Tap “Download and Install” to begin the update process. Make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery life. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Reset Network Settings
Resetting your iPhone’s network settings can often resolve network-related problems that may be preventing you from making calls. Keep in mind that this process will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords, so make sure you have them handy before proceeding. Follow these steps to reset your network settings:
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to find the “General” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 2: Select Reset
In the General settings menu, scroll down and tap on “Reset.”
Step 3: Reset Network Settings
In the Reset menu, select “Reset Network Settings.” You may be prompted to enter your passcode for confirmation.
Step 4: Confirm Reset
A warning message will appear, informing you that this action will remove all network settings, including Wi-Fi passwords. If you’re ready to proceed, tap “Reset Network Settings.” Your iPhone will then restart.
Check for Carrier Settings Updates
Carrier settings updates are small files provided by your cellular network provider that contain important information about network settings, including call settings. Installing carrier settings updates can often resolve issues related to network connectivity. Here’s how you can check for carrier settings updates:
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to find the “General” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 2: Select About
In the General settings menu, scroll down and tap on “About.”
Step 3: Check for Updates
In the About menu, your iPhone will automatically check for available carrier settings updates. If an update is available, a pop-up message will appear, asking you to install the update. Tap “Update” to proceed. Your iPhone may restart during the update process.
Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card
Occasionally, issues with your iPhone’s SIM card can affect its ability to make calls. The SIM card is a small chip that stores your cellular network information. Here’s how you can remove and reinsert your SIM card:
Step 1: Power Off
Before removing your SIM card, it’s essential to turn off your iPhone. Press and hold the power button until the “slide to power off” option appears. Slide the power off slider to shut down your device.
Step 2: Locate the SIM Card Tray
Look for the SIM card tray on the side of your iPhone. The location of the SIM card tray may vary depending on your iPhone’s model. You can usually find it on the right side (for iPhone X and later) or on the top (for earlier models).
Step 3: Eject the SIM Card
Using a SIM card removal tool or a small paperclip, insert the tool into the small hole next to the SIM card tray. Apply gentle pressure until the tray pops out slightly. Carefully pull the SIM card tray out of the iPhone.
Step 4: Remove and Reinsert the SIM Card
Take out the SIM card from the tray, making sure to remember its orientation. Examine the SIM card for any visible damage or debris. If the SIM card appears clean and undamaged, reinsert it into the tray in the same orientation as before. Carefully push the tray back into the iPhone until it clicks into place.
Step 5: Power On
After reinserting the SIM card, press and hold the power button to turn on your iPhone. Once the device is powered on, wait for it to establish a network connection. Try making a call to see if the issue has been resolved.
Disable Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi Calling is a feature that allows your iPhone to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of a cellular network. While it can be a useful feature, it can sometimes cause conflicts that prevent your iPhone from making calls. Disabling Wi-Fi Calling temporarily can help troubleshoot the issue. Here’s how you can disable Wi-Fi Calling:
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to find the “Phone” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 2: Select Wi-Fi Calling
In the Phone settings menu, look for “Wi-Fi Calling” and tap on it.
Step 3: Disable Wi-Fi Calling
Toggle the switch next to “Wi-Fi Calling” to turn it off. The switch should no longer be highlighted once it’s disabled.
Contact Your Carrier
If you’ve tried all the previous troubleshooting steps and are still unable to make calls on your iPhone, it’s time to reach out to your cellular network provider for further assistance. They have specialized knowledge and resources to help diagnose and resolve network-related issues. Here’s what you can do:
Step 1: Gather Information
Before contacting your carrier, gather the necessary information about your iPhone and the issue you’re experiencing. This may include your iPhone’s model, software version, and a detailed description of the problem.
Step 2: Contact Customer Support
Call your carrier’s customer support hotline or visit their website for contact information. Explain the issue to the customer support representative and provide them with the relevant information you gathered. They will guide you through additional troubleshooting steps or escalate the issue to their technical team if necessary.
Step 3: Visit an Authorized Service Center
If the carrier’s customer support is unable to resolve the issue remotely, they may direct you to visit an authorized service center. These centers have specialized technicians who can diagnose and repair hardware or software problems. Make sure to bring your iPhone and any relevant documentation, such as proof of purchase or warranty information.
Step 4: Consider Switching Carriers
If all else fails and the issue remains unresolved, you may want to explore the option of switching to a different cellular network provider. Research other carriers in your area and compare their coverage, plans, and customer reviews to find one that better meets your needs.
Step 5: Reach Out to Apple
If the problem persists even after contacting your carrier, you can reach out to Apple for support. Apple has a dedicated support team that can help troubleshoot hardware or software issues specific to your iPhone. Visit Apple’s support website or schedule an appointment at an Apple Store for in-person assistance.
Step 6: Consider Upgrading Your iPhone
If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting options and your iPhone is several years old, it’s worth considering an upgrade. Newer iPhone models often come with improved hardware and software capabilities, which can help alleviate calling issues and provide a better overall user experience.
Step 7: Explore Alternative Communication Methods
While you work on resolving the calling issue, consider using alternative communication methods to stay connected. Messaging apps, such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, can allow you to make voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data. You can also use services like FaceTime or Skype for video calls. Additionally, consider using a landline phone or borrowing a friend’s phone for important calls if necessary.
Step 8: Backup and Restore Your iPhone
If you’ve exhausted all other options and are still experiencing calling issues, you can try backing up your iPhone and performing a restore. This process erases all data on your iPhone and reinstalls the software, potentially resolving any underlying software issues. Before proceeding, make sure to back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes to avoid losing any important data.
In conclusion, troubleshooting an iPhone that won’t make calls but can still send texts requires a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can quickly identify and resolve the underlying cause of the issue. Remember to check your network connection, verify Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb settings, restart your iPhone, update your software, reset network settings, check for carrier settings updates, remove and reinsert your SIM card, disable Wi-Fi Calling, and contact your carrier or Applefor further assistance. It’s important to be patient and thorough when troubleshooting, as each step can potentially bring you closer to resolving the issue and restoring full calling functionality to your iPhone.
Remember that these troubleshooting steps are not exhaustive, and there may be other factors specific to your iPhone or network that could be causing the problem. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties during the troubleshooting process, don’t hesitate to seek additional support from your carrier, Apple, or authorized service centers.
It’s worth noting that while this guide focuses on troubleshooting steps, prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive measures to maintain your iPhone’s software and hardware can help prevent calling issues from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your iPhone healthy and optimize its calling capabilities:
Keep Your iPhone Updated
Regularly check for software updates and install them when available. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can enhance your iPhone’s performance and address known issues.
Protect Your iPhone from Physical Damage
Avoid dropping your iPhone, exposing it to extreme temperatures, or subjecting it to water damage. Physical damage can affect the internal components of your device and potentially lead to calling issues.
Manage Your Storage Space
Ensure that your iPhone has enough available storage space. A lack of storage can cause your device to slow down and may impact its calling capabilities. Delete unnecessary apps, photos, and files to free up space.
Restart Your iPhone Regularly
Restarting your iPhone periodically can help clear temporary files and refresh its software. This simple action can often resolve minor issues and optimize performance.
Use a Protective Case
Invest in a high-quality protective case to protect your iPhone from accidental drops and collisions. A case can help absorb shocks and reduce the risk of damage to internal components that may affect calling functionality.
Keep Your iPhone Clean
Regularly clean your iPhone using a soft, lint-free cloth. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may accumulate around the speakers, microphone, and charging port. This can prevent potential issues with audio during calls.
Monitor Your Network Coverage
Stay aware of your network coverage and signal strength. If you frequently experience weak or no signal in certain areas, contact your carrier to inquire about potential network improvements or consider switching to a carrier with better coverage in your area.
By following these preventative measures and implementing the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can increase the likelihood of maintaining a fully functional iPhone that allows you to make calls and send texts without any issues.
Remember, technology can sometimes be unpredictable, and even with the best precautions, occasional problems may arise. The key is to approach these issues with patience, persistence, and a willingness to seek assistance when needed.
We hope this comprehensive troubleshooting guide has provided you with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle the “My iPhone Won’t Make Calls But Will Text” issue effectively. Stay connected, and enjoy the seamless communication experience that your iPhone was designed to provide!