Complete solutions if you can't answer incoming calls on Android

Can't answer incoming calls on your Android phone? Although we currently use our smartphones for hundreds of tasks, it's still essential to be able to answer calls. If your device doesn't respond when you try to answer, this can cause significant inconveniences, both personal and work-related. But don't worry: this problem has several causes and multiple solutions that you can try yourself, without having to call a technical support service. Below is the guide. The most complete and detailed solution to solve the problem of not being able to answer incoming calls on Android. and use your device normally again.

Why can't I answer an incoming call on Android?

Before moving on to the solutions, it is essential that you understand The most common reasons why an Android phone won't let you answer incoming callsThe most common causes include Phone app crashes, incorrect permissions or notification settings, software issues (corrupted cache, temporary errors), SIM card conflicts, connectivity issues (WiFi, airplane mode), hardware issues such as the touchpad, or even issues related to system call settings.

INCLUDED not seeing the call on screen It could be due to simple errors, such as having some “Do Not Disturb” mode activated, having notifications disabled, or the Phone app crashing due to lack of permissions, cache issues, or outdated software.

Sometimes, the failure is due to a combination of these factors or to specific errors that can be resolved with simple steps. Therefore, it's important to approach the problem in an orderly manner and apply these methods one by one, starting with the simplest.

Restart your phone: the first step in case of any failure

Many times, Restarting your phone is the key to solving the problem of not being able to answer calls on Android.A simple restart closes background processes that may be causing system conflicts, including those affecting the Phone app. It also removes corrupted temporary files that could be causing the crash.

1. Press and hold the power button for several seconds until you see the shutdown menu.
2. Select “Restart” and wait for the device to boot again.

After restarting it, check if you can receive and answer calls normally. If the problem persists, continue with the next steps.

Update the Phone app and operating system

A outdated Phone app It may contain known bugs that prevent you from answering calls. Similarly, an older version of the operating system may cause incompatibilities. Updating is essential:

1. But Google Play Store.
2. Tap your profile and go to “Manage apps and devices.”
3. Select “Updates Available” and look for the Phone app to update if there’s a new version.
4. Similarly, from Settings > System > System Updates, check for Android updates and apply them.

In many cases, after updating the Phone and/or Android app, the error disappears.

Clear cache and data of the Phone app

The cache stored by the Phone app can become corrupted and cause unexpected issues, such as the inability to answer calls. Following these steps can clear the cache and data without losing your contacts or call history:

1. Go to Settings > Applications.
2. Find the Phone app and select it.
3. Tap “Storage.”
4. Tap “Clear cache.” If the problem persists, also select “Clear data.”
5. Confirm the transaction. The first time you open the app, it may take longer than usual.

In many cases, clearing the cache and data returns call answering to normal.

Force stop and restart the Phone app

In addition to clearing the cache, you can force stop from the Phone app, forcing the system to completely close it and restart it from scratch:

1. In Settings > Apps, locate the Phone app.
2. Click “Force Stop.”
3. Reopen the app and try answering a call.

This process resolves potential internal crashes that cannot be resolved by simply rebooting the system.

Check and manage Phone app permissions and notifications

If the Phone app does not have the necessary permits or notifications are disabled, you may not see the incoming call interface or be able to interact with it. To check:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Phone.
2. Go to “Permissions” and make sure it has access to “Phone,” “Contacts,” “Microphone,” and “Display over other apps.”
3. Check that all options in “Notifications” are activated, especially “Incoming Calls.”

If any permissions or notifications were missing, enable them and see if this fixes the issue.

Review “Do Not Disturb” mode and other settings that may block calls

Do Not Disturb mode, or similar features such as “Do Not Disturb” or Focus Profiles, may block the appearance of alerts and the incoming call interface. Make sure these modes are disabled:

1. Pull down the notification panel and locate the “Do Not Disturb” icon.
2. Temporarily turn it off and ask someone to call you to check if you can pick up.

In the sound and notification settings, check that the ringer volume is set to maximum and that no restrictions are set.

Turn Airplane Mode on and off to reset connections

If the problem is related to connectivity, the Airplane mode can reset all network connections (mobile network, data, WiFi and Bluetooth):

1. Swipe down the notification panel.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to activate it.
3. Wait about 10 seconds and turn it off.

This quick restart can resolve network errors that prevent you from receiving calls correctly.

Check and clean the SIM card

A SIM card incorrectly positioned or with dirty contacts This may cause problems receiving and answering calls. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn off your mobile phone completely.
2. Remove the SIM card using the appropriate tool.
3. Using a dry microfiber cloth, carefully clean the gold contacts.
4. Place the SIM back in its tray, making sure it is properly positioned, and insert it into the phone.
5. Turn on the device and check if you can now answer calls.

If the SIM is damaged, request a duplicate from your operator to rule out line failures.

Disable WiFi Calling

Some devices and carriers allow calls to be made using Wi-Fi instead of the cellular network. There may be incompatibilities or micro-outages that prevent calls from being answered correctly using the traditional interface. To disable this feature:

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Calls & SMS (or similar).
2. Access your operator.
3. Disable the “WiFi Calling” option.

Once the change is applied, check if the problem has been resolved by using a test call. You can also check out our article on Everything you need to know about WiFi calling on Android.

Check the status of the screen and touchpad

Many users experience the inability to answer calls. due to touch screen failuresThis could be due to insensitive areas of the panel, dirt, moisture, or faulty screen protectors. Try these steps:

• remove the screen protector and clean the panel with a microfiber cloth.
• Calibrate the screen if your model allows it (some manufacturers include this feature in Settings > Display, or you can use dedicated apps like 'Touch Screen Test'). You may also be interested in checking out our guide on How to fix incoming calls not ringing on Android.
• Check that the touchpad is working properly in all areas, especially where the answer call button appears.

If you notice dead zones or poor response, contact technical support for an examination or repair. In the meantime, use accessibility features like auto-answer with hearing aids if your model allows it.

Manage accessibility features and TalkBack to answer calls

If you have accessibility features like TalkBack enabled, the gestures for answering calls may change. For example:

• To answer an incoming call, swipe up with two fingers.
• To reject a call, swipe down with two fingers.
• Some devices allow you to answer by double-tapping the answer button.

Review the accessibility settings in Settings > Accessibility to understand how you should interact with the call interface when TalkBack is active. If you prefer, you can also check How to activate audio and video calls on Twitter to better understand accessibility and calling features on different platforms. If you'd like, temporarily disable TalkBack to see if you can answer calls normally.

Advanced call settings and configuration

In addition to the options mentioned above, you can customize various settings in the Phone app that can influence call behavior:

• Ringtone and vibration: Adjust the ringtone and activate vibration to make sure you receive calls.
• Quick Text Replies: Customize the automatic messages that can be sent when you reject a call.
• On screen display: Some customization layers allow you to display the incoming call in full screen or as a pop-up window. Try both options if your phone allows it.
• Call waiting and notifications while on the phone: Activate the option so that if you receive a second call, you can manage both.
• Number of rings before diverting to voicemail: Some carriers allow you to set this up by calling their customer service number.

Related article:

Why aren't I hearing incoming calls? Ultimate solutions for Android and iPhone