Apple iOS 26 has a new call screening feature that lets you stop spam calls from bothering you.

Here’s how to enable call screening in a few easy steps and what to know about the new feature.

How to turn call screening on your iPhone

1. Tap Settings.
2. Tap Apps near the bottom of the menu.
3. Tap Phone.

Under the section Screen Unknown Callers, you’ll see three options: Never, Ask Reason for Calling and Silence. 

Choosing Never is the default option and lets calls from unsaved numbers come through and ring on your phone. It also documents missed calls in your Recents list in your Phone app, just like before call screening was available.

If you tap Ask Reason for Calling, your iPhone will ask anyone who calls you from an unsaved number why they are calling you without ringing your iPhone. After the caller answers a few questions, your iPhone will notify you with a transcript of the caller’s answers. Then you can decide whether you want to answer the call or not.

You can also pick Silence, which is the nuclear option for phone calls. Any unsaved numbers that call you will be silenced and sent to voicemail, no questions asked.

Ask Reason for Calling is the best option for most people who want to screen calls.