How to block and unblock a number on your Android phone

In the age of smartphones, the convenience of having a powerful device at our fingertips is undeniable. However, with this technological marvel comes the persistent nuisance of unwanted calls, particularly those pesky solicitations regarding extended warranties for vehicles. Fortunately, for Android users, there exists a straightforward method to reclaim your peace by blocking these unwelcome interruptions.

How to block a number on your Android phone

For those utilizing a Samsung device, there are two effective methods to block unwanted calls: through the Contacts app or the Phone app for numbers not saved in your contacts.

Using the Contacts app:

1. Open the Contacts app.
2. Select the contact you wish to block.
3. Tap More.
4. Choose Block contact.
5. Confirm the block.

Using the Phone app:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Locate and copy the number you want to block.
3. Tap More (three dots) located at the top corner.
4. Select Settings.
5. Tap Block numbers.
6. Tap Add phone number and paste or type the number you wish to block.
7. Tap the plus sign.

If the number has recently contacted you, blocking it from the Recents section is equally simple. Just navigate to the number, tap Details > More Options > Block number.

For Pixel phones or devices running stock Android, the process remains just as user-friendly:

1. Open your Phone app.
2. Select More (three dots).
3. Tap Call history.
4. Choose a call from the number you wish to block.
5. Tap Block/report spam.

Once you complete these steps, your Android device will automatically decline any future calls from the blocked number, ensuring that your tranquility remains undisturbed.

How to unblock a number on your Android phone

Should you decide to reverse your decision and unblock a contact, the process is equally straightforward. For Samsung users, follow these steps:

1. Open the Contacts app.
2. Select the contact you want to unblock.
3. Tap More options (three dots).
4. Select Unblock contact.

If you prefer using the Phone app:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Select More (three dots).
3. Tap Settings.
4. Select Block numbers.
5. Tap the (-) next to the number you wish to unblock.

For Google Pixel and stock Android users, the steps are as follows:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap More (three dots).
3. Select Settings.
4. Then tap Blocked numbers.
5. Tap Clear (x) next to the number to unblock it.

Once unblocked, the number will regain the ability to call and text you as usual. However, it’s important to note that any calls made during the blocking period will not appear in your call logs, remaining forever absent from your records.