If you’re having trouble making calls on your Android phone, don’t worry – you’re not alone. There are a number of reasons why your phone might not be allowing you to make calls, from simple network issues to more complex software problems. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of call issues on Android phones and provide some tips on how to fix them.
One of the most common reasons why your Android phone might not be allowing you to make calls is a poor network connection. If you’re in an area with weak signal or no signal at all, you won’t be able to make or receive calls. Another common issue is airplane mode being turned on, which disables all wireless connections including cellular data and Wi-Fi. Additionally, if your bill is overdue, your carrier may have suspended your service, which would prevent you from making calls.
If none of these issues seem to be the cause of your call problems, it’s possible that your phone may be experiencing a software issue. Malware or other software problems can cause your phone’s call function to malfunction, preventing you from making or receiving calls. In the next section, we’ll explore some tips on how to fix these more complex issues and get your phone back up and running.
Understanding the Issue
If you’re unable to make calls on your Android phone, it can be frustrating. There are several reasons why this might be happening. It could be a network issue, a problem with your phone, or a software issue. Here are some things to consider when trying to understand the issue:
Check Your Network Connection
The first thing you should do is check your network connection. If you’re in a dead zone or an area with poor reception, you may not be able to make calls. Make sure your phone is connected to the network and that you have a good signal.
Check Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb Mode
Airplane mode and Do Not Disturb mode can both prevent you from making calls. Make sure these modes are turned off. You can check this by swiping down from the top of your screen and looking for the airplane or Do Not Disturb icons.
Check Your SIM Card
A damaged or faulty SIM card can also prevent you from making calls. Check that your SIM card is inserted correctly and that it’s not damaged. If you’re not sure, you can try removing the SIM card and reinserting it.
Check for Malware
Malware can cause all sorts of problems on your phone, including preventing you from making calls. Make sure your phone is protected by a reputable antivirus program. You can also try scanning your phone for malware using an app like Malwarebytes.
Clear Cache Data
Clearing your phone’s cache data can also help fix issues with making calls. To do this, go to Settings > Storage > Cached data and tap on Clear cached data.
Reset Network Settings
If none of the above solutions work, you can try resetting your network settings. This will reset all your network settings to their default values. To do this, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
Overall, there are several things that can prevent you from making calls on your Android phone. By checking your network connection, SIM card, and phone settings, you can often resolve the issue.
Checking the Network Connection
If you are having trouble making calls on your Android phone, the first thing you should check is your network connection. A poor signal or network outage can prevent you from making or receiving calls.
To check your network connection, look at the top of your phone’s screen. You should see your carrier’s name and the signal strength indicator. If you see “No service” or “Emergency calls only,” your phone is not connected to the cellular network.
If you are in an area with poor signal strength, try moving to a different location or going outside. If you are still unable to make calls, there may be a network outage in your area. You can check with your carrier to see if there are any known issues.
Another common cause of network issues is a problem with your phone’s settings. Make sure that Airplane Mode is turned off and that mobile data is enabled. You can access these settings by pulling down from the top of the screen or going to Settings > Network & internet.
If you are still having trouble with your network connection, you may need to reset your phone’s network settings. This will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections, so make sure to write down any important information before proceeding. To reset your network settings, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
Exploring the Airplane Mode
If your Android phone is not allowing you to make calls, one of the first things you should check is whether the Airplane Mode is turned on. Airplane Mode, also known as Flight Mode, is a feature that disables all wireless connections on your phone. It is designed to comply with regulations that require electronic devices to be turned off during flights.
To check if Airplane Mode is turned on, you can swipe down from the top of your phone’s screen to access the Quick Settings menu. If the Airplane Mode icon is highlighted, it means that the feature is turned on. You can tap the icon to turn it off and re-enable your phone’s wireless connections.
It is important to note that while Airplane Mode disables all wireless connections, you can still enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth separately. This means that you can still connect to Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices while Airplane Mode is turned on. However, cellular data and voice calls will be disabled.
If you are experiencing issues with making or receiving calls on your Android phone, it is recommended that you turn off Airplane Mode and check if the issue is resolved. If not, there may be other factors that are causing the problem.
In some cases, Airplane Mode may turn on automatically due to a glitch or software issue. If this happens, you can try restarting your phone or resetting the network settings to fix the problem.
Overall, Airplane Mode is a useful feature that can help you comply with regulations during flights. However, it is important to remember to turn it off when you are not on a plane to avoid any disruptions to your phone’s wireless connections.
Assessing the Sim Card
If you are experiencing issues with making calls on your Samsung Android phone, one of the first things you should check is your SIM card. Your SIM card is what enables your smartphone to work on the wireless cellular network. It identifies you and your phone and contains information about your cellular provider, so you need to make sure that it is working correctly.
To assess your SIM card, you can follow these steps:
- Eject the SIM card: First, you need to eject the SIM card from your phone. You can use an ejector tool or a small pin to do this. Insert the tool into the small hole on the side of your phone, and the SIM tray will pop out. Carefully remove the SIM card from the tray.
- Check the SIM card: Inspect the SIM card carefully to see if there are any signs of damage or wear and tear. Look for scratches, cracks, or any other damage that might affect the performance of the SIM card.
- Reinsert the SIM card: Once you have inspected the SIM card, reinsert it back into the tray. Make sure that it is inserted correctly and securely.
- Reactivate the SIM card: If you have not used your SIM card in a while, it may have been deactivated. To reactivate it, you can contact your cellular provider and ask them to reactivate the SIM card.
By following these steps, you can assess your SIM card and make sure that it is working correctly. If you continue to experience issues with making calls, you may need to contact your cellular provider for further assistance.
Evaluating the Call Settings
If you’re having trouble making calls on your Android phone, it’s important to evaluate your call settings to make sure everything is set up correctly. Here are some things to check:
Call Forwarding
Call forwarding is a feature that allows you to forward incoming calls to another number. If call forwarding is turned on, your phone won’t ring when someone tries to call you. To check if call forwarding is turned on, follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
- Scroll down and select “Calls.”
- Select “Call forwarding.”
If call forwarding is turned on, you can turn it off by selecting “Disable” or by tapping the toggle switch next to “Call forwarding.”
Call Barring
Call barring is a feature that allows you to block incoming or outgoing calls. If call barring is turned on, you won’t be able to make or receive calls. To check if call barring is turned on, follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
- Scroll down and select “Calls.”
- Select “Call barring.”
If call barring is turned on, you can turn it off by selecting “Disable” or by tapping the toggle switch next to “Call barring.”
Call Issues
If you’re experiencing call issues, such as dropped calls or poor call quality, there are a few things you can try:
- Make sure you have a strong signal.
- Turn off any apps that may be using your phone’s resources, such as video streaming apps or games.
- Restart your phone.
Blocking Calls
If you’re receiving unwanted calls, you can block them by following these steps:
- Open the Phone app.
- Select the number you want to block.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
- Select “Block number” from the drop-down menu.
You can also block calls from unknown numbers by turning on “Block unknown callers” in your call settings.
By evaluating your call settings and making sure everything is set up correctly, you can troubleshoot and fix any issues you may be experiencing with making calls on your Android phone.
Inspecting the Do Not Disturb Mode
If you are having trouble making calls on your Android phone, it is possible that the Do Not Disturb mode is enabled. This mode silences all notifications, including phone calls, to avoid interruptions. It is a useful feature when you want to focus on work or sleep without being disturbed. However, if you forget to turn it off, you may miss important calls.
To check if the Do Not Disturb mode is enabled on your Android phone, follow these steps:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notification shade.
- Look for the Do Not Disturb icon, which looks like a circle with a line through it. If it is grayed out, it means the mode is enabled.
- If the icon is colored, it means the mode is disabled.
Alternatively, you can check the Do Not Disturb settings in the phone’s settings menu. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Scroll down and tap on “Sound & vibration.”
- Look for “Do Not Disturb” and tap on it.
- Check if the toggle switch next to “Turn on now” is enabled. If it is, the mode is active.
In the Do Not Disturb settings, you can also customize the mode to allow certain calls or notifications to come through. For example, you can create a whitelist of contacts who can call you even when the mode is enabled. You can also schedule the mode to turn on and off automatically at specific times, such as during your work hours or bedtime.
In summary, the Do Not Disturb mode can be a helpful feature to avoid distractions, but it can also prevent you from making calls if you forget to turn it off. Always check if the mode is enabled before making a call, and customize the settings to suit your needs.
Looking into the Software
If you are experiencing issues with making or receiving calls on your Android phone, it could be due to a software glitch or issue. Here are a few things to consider when looking into the software:
Check for Software Updates
First, make sure that your phone is running the latest software version. Manufacturers often release updates that address bugs and improve overall performance. To check for updates, go to Settings > System > Software update.
Clear Cache Data
If your phone’s cache data is full, it can cause issues with the phone’s performance, including making and receiving calls. Clearing the cache data can help fix the problem. To clear the cache data, go to Settings > Storage > Cached data.
Reset Network Settings
Resetting the network settings on your phone can help fix issues with making or receiving calls. To do this, go to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will reset all the network settings on your phone, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data.
Check for Software Glitches
Sometimes, software glitches can cause issues with making or receiving calls. If you suspect a software glitch, try restarting your phone or performing a soft reset. To do this, press and hold the power button until the “Power off” option appears. Tap “Power off” and then turn your phone back on.
Contact Support
If you have tried all of the above steps and are still experiencing issues with making or receiving calls, it may be time to contact your phone’s manufacturer or your carrier’s support team. They can provide further assistance and help troubleshoot the issue.
Dealing with Bugs and Malware
If your Android phone is not allowing you to make or receive calls, it could be due to bugs or malware on your device. Bugs are software glitches that can cause your phone to malfunction. Malware, on the other hand, is malicious software that can harm your device and steal your personal information. Here are some steps you can take to deal with bugs and malware:
- Update your phone: Make sure your phone’s software is up-to-date. Go to Settings > System > System update to check for any available updates. Updating your phone can fix bugs and security vulnerabilities that could be causing the issue.
- Install antivirus software: Install an antivirus app from the Google Play Store to scan your phone for malware. Some popular antivirus apps include Avast, Norton, and McAfee. These apps can detect and remove malware from your device.
- Remove suspicious apps: Uninstall any apps that you don’t recognize or that you suspect could be causing the issue. Malware often hides in apps that look legitimate, so it’s important to be cautious when installing new apps.
- Clear cache and data: Clearing the cache and data of your phone’s apps can help fix bugs and improve performance. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps, then select the app you want to clear the cache and data for.
- Factory reset: If all else fails, you can try performing a factory reset on your phone. This will erase all data on your device, so make sure to back up your important files before doing so. Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset) to perform a factory reset.
By following these steps, you can deal with bugs and malware on your Android phone and hopefully fix the issue that’s preventing you from making or receiving calls.
Clearing the Cache
If you’re having trouble making calls on your Android phone, one thing you can try is clearing the cache. A cache is a temporary storage area where your phone stores data to help it load apps and websites more quickly. Over time, this cache can become cluttered, which can cause problems with your phone’s performance.
To clear the cache on your Android phone, you can follow these steps:
- Go to your phone’s Settings app.
- Tap on “Apps” or “Application Manager”.
- Find the app you want to clear the cache for. In this case, it would be the Phone app.
- Tap on the app to open its settings.
- Tap on “Storage”.
- Tap on “Clear Cache”.
Clearing the cache for the Phone app can help resolve any issues that might be preventing you from making calls. It’s also a good idea to clear the cache for other apps on your phone from time to time, especially if you notice that they’re running slowly or crashing frequently.
Keep in mind that clearing the cache will delete any temporary data that the app has stored, so you may need to re-enter login information or other settings the next time you use the app. However, this shouldn’t cause any major issues, and it’s a small price to pay for improved performance.
In addition to clearing the cache for individual apps, you can also clear the cache data for your entire phone. This will delete all temporary data stored on your phone, which can help improve its overall performance. To clear the cache data for your entire phone, go to your Settings app, tap on “Storage”, and then tap on “Cached Data”. Tap “OK” to confirm that you want to delete the cached data.
Overall, clearing the cache on your Android phone is a simple and effective way to improve its performance and resolve issues with apps like the Phone app.
Considering a Factory Reset
If none of the previous solutions have worked, you may have to consider performing a factory reset on your Android device. A factory reset will erase all the data and settings on your phone, returning it to its original state when you first bought it.
Before you perform a factory reset, make sure to backup all your important data, such as contacts, photos, and documents. You can backup your data to your Google account, or by using a third-party backup app.
To perform a factory reset on your Android device, follow these steps:
- Go to your phone’s Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on “System” or “System and updates”.
- Tap on “Reset options”.
- Select “Erase all data (factory reset)”.
- Tap on “Reset phone” or “Reset tablet”.
- Enter your phone’s PIN or password, if prompted.
- Tap on “Erase everything” or “Reset phone”.
Your phone will now erase all data and settings, and restart in its original state. Once the reset is complete, you will need to set up your phone again, including your Google account, Wi-Fi, and other settings.
If you are still having issues making calls after performing a factory reset, you may want to consider contacting your phone manufacturer or your carrier for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or repair options.
Addressing Hardware Issues
If your Android phone is not allowing you to make calls, it could be due to a hardware issue. There are a few things you can do to address this problem.
First, check if your phone’s microphone and speaker are working properly. You can do this by making a test call or recording a voice memo and playing it back. If you notice any issues with the sound quality, you may need to get your phone’s hardware repaired.
Another common hardware issue that can prevent you from making calls is a damaged SIM card. If your phone is displaying an error message related to the SIM card, try removing it and reinserting it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to get a new SIM card from your carrier.
If your phone is not charging or the battery is draining quickly, it could be due to a hardware issue with the charging port or battery. Try cleaning the charging port with a soft brush or toothpick, and make sure your charger and cable are working properly. If you continue to have issues, you may need to get your phone’s hardware repaired or replace the battery.
In some cases, a software update can cause hardware issues on your phone. If you recently updated your phone’s software and are experiencing hardware issues, try rolling back the update or performing a factory reset. Keep in mind that a factory reset will erase all data on your phone, so make sure to back up your important files before doing so.
Overall, addressing hardware issues can be a bit more complicated than software issues, but it is important to take care of your phone’s hardware to ensure it functions properly. If you are unsure about how to address a hardware issue, it is best to seek assistance from a professional.
Contacting the Carrier or Technical Support
If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and still can’t make calls, it might be time to contact your carrier or technical support. They can help you identify the problem and find a solution.
To contact your carrier, you can call their customer service number or visit their website for support. You will need to provide your account information and explain the issue you are experiencing. They may ask you to perform additional troubleshooting steps or escalate the issue to a higher level of support.
If you purchased your phone from a specific manufacturer, you can also contact their technical support for assistance. They can help you with issues related to the phone’s hardware and software. You can find their contact information on their website or in the phone’s user manual.
Before contacting your carrier or technical support, make sure you have the following information:
- Your phone’s make and model
- The version of Android your phone is running
- Your carrier’s name and account information
- A description of the issue you are experiencing
It’s important to remain patient and polite when speaking with customer service representatives. They are there to help you and will do their best to find a solution to the problem. If the issue cannot be resolved over the phone, they may recommend taking the phone to a local repair shop or sending it in for repairs.
In some cases, if the phone is still under warranty, repairs may be covered at no cost to you. Make sure to ask your carrier or manufacturer about their warranty policy and any potential costs associated with repairs.
Overall, contacting your carrier or technical support can be a helpful step in resolving issues with your phone’s ability to make calls. Make sure to provide them with all the necessary information and remain patient throughout the process.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If you are still facing issues with making or receiving calls on your Android device, here are some additional troubleshooting tips that may help:
- Check your Wi-Fi calling settings: If you have Wi-Fi calling enabled, try disabling it and see if that resolves the issue. You can find this setting in the Phone app under Settings > Wi-Fi Calling.
- Check your Bluetooth settings: If you have Bluetooth enabled, try disabling it and see if that resolves the issue. You can find this setting in the Quick Settings panel or in Settings > Connected devices.
- Check your mobile data settings: Make sure that mobile data is enabled and that you have a strong signal. You can check this in the Quick Settings panel or in Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network.
- Check your notifications settings: Make sure that you have not accidentally turned off notifications for the Phone app. You can check this in the App info screen for the Phone app in Settings > Apps & notifications.
- Check your account status: Make sure that your account is in good standing and that there are no outstanding issues. You can check this by contacting your carrier.
- Try rebooting your device: Sometimes simply rebooting your device can resolve issues with making or receiving calls.
- Make sure that you are not on the blocked list: If you are unable to make calls to a specific number, make sure that you have not accidentally added that number to your blocked list. You can check this in the Phone app under Settings > Blocked numbers.
- Check for software updates: Make sure that your device is running the latest software version. You can check for updates in Settings > Software update or in the Play Store.
- Deactivate and reactivate voicemail: If you are having issues with voicemail, try deactivating and then reactivating it. You can do this by contacting your carrier.
By following these additional troubleshooting tips, you should be able to resolve most issues with making or receiving calls on your Android device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I make calls on my Android phone?
If you are unable to make calls on your Android phone, there could be several reasons for it. It could be due to poor network coverage, an issue with your account or network, or a problem with your phone’s software or hardware.
How do I troubleshoot my phone’s calling feature?
To troubleshoot your phone’s calling feature, you can try restarting your phone, checking your network connection, updating your phone’s software, or resetting your phone to its factory settings.
What could be causing my phone to not make calls?
Several factors could be causing your phone to not make calls, including network issues, software or hardware problems, or issues with your account or network.
Why is my Samsung phone not allowing me to make calls?
If you are using a Samsung phone and it is not allowing you to make calls, you can try updating your phone’s software, checking your mobile coverage and service status, or contacting your network provider for assistance.
How do I fix my Android phone’s calling issue?
To fix your Android phone’s calling issue, you can try several troubleshooting steps, including checking your network connection, updating your phone’s software, resetting your phone to its factory settings, or contacting your network provider for assistance.
Why won’t my calls go through on my Android phone?
If your calls are not going through on your Android phone, it could be due to several reasons, including poor network coverage, an issue with your account or network, or a problem with your phone’s software or hardware. You can try troubleshooting steps like restarting your phone, checking your network connection, or updating your phone’s software to fix the issue.