iOS 26’s new Phone app won me over with two excellent features
iOS 26 introduces a redesigned Phone app with two standout features that improve the calling experience. Call Screening helps reduce spam by asking unknown callers to state their reason for calling, while Hold Assist notifies users when they can return to a call after being placed on hold. Though the visual redesign is optional and less impactful, these functional upgrades have made the app a favorite for the author.
- ▪iOS 26 overhauled the Phone app with new features rather than just visual changes.
- ▪Call Screening allows users to require unknown callers to state their reason for calling before the phone rings.
- ▪Hold Assist automatically detects when a user is on hold and sends a notification when assistance is needed.
- ▪Both Call Screening and Hold Assist are opt-in features accessible through the Settings app.
- ▪The author considers the Phone app one of the best updates in iOS 26 despite mixed feelings about the redesign.
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