What to do when your Galaxy device is unable to make or receive calls

Last Update date : Dec 22. 2021

If you’re unable to make a call from your Galaxy device, it may be due to a faulty SIM card, an issue with your account or carrier, or a device setting. Check the guide below to find a solution.

Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version. To update your mobile device's software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to Settings > Software update.

Step 2. Tap on Download and install.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Check your cell coverage and service status

You may experience call issues if you’re in an area with poor cell reception or if there is an issue with your account or carrier.

  • If you have poor cell reception, there will be a few to no network bars on the upper right corner of your screen. If that’s the case, move to a spot with stronger signal.
Poor cell reception
With weak signal, there’s only a few, if not any, network bars
  • Verify that your account is in good standing.
  • Your device may be experiencing temporary issues with receiving signals from a cell tower. Try rebooting your device.

Device settings may be hindering your ability to make or receive calls. Check if Airplane mode is enabled or if your device is blocking calls from unknown or private numbers.

Turn off Airplane mode

Step 1. Open Settings and tap Connections.

Step 2. If Airplane mode is on, turn it off and check if your connection stabilizes.

Turn off Airplane mode

Check if your device is blocking any unknown or private numbers

Open Phone app and tap More Open Phone app and tap More

Step 1. Open the Phone app and Tap More (Three dots in the upper right corner)

Tap Settings on Phone app Tap Settings on Phone app

Step 2. Tap Settings.

Call settings Block numbers Call settings Block numbers

Step 3. Tap Block numbers.

Disable Block unknown or private numbers Disable Block unknown or private numbers

Step 4. Turn off Block unknown/private numbers and check if you receive calls.

The quality of your call may be affected by a faulty SIM card. Check whether your SIM card is damaged or improperly installed.

Insert ejector tool into SIM card tray Insert ejector tool into SIM card tray

Step 1. Turn off your device and insert the ejector tool into the small hole next to the SIM card tray. The ejector tool is provided upon purchase.

Eject card tray Eject card tray

Step 2. Eject the card tray.

Inspect SIM card for damage and reinstall Inspect SIM card for damage and reinstall

Step 3. Inspect the SIM card for damage and reinstall it if none is found.

Note:

  • The SIM card tray position may differ depending on device model.
  • To test your SIM card, contact your mobile carrier. If there's another device using the same carrier nearby, you can test your SIM card with that device.
  • If the issue persists after reinstalling a valid SIM card, try rebooting your device. You may have to reboot more than once.

If you recently changed carriers but kept the same phone, you may need to contact the current carrier to reprogram your device. Contact your service provider for assistance.

Note:

  • After each step, try making a call to see if your issue is resolved.
  • Warranty may not cover physical damage, but you can still make an appointment for repairs. Please check the Support Centre for more information.
  • Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.

How to use the Samsung Members app

If you are experiencing difficulties with your Samsung mobile, tablet, or wearables, you can send us a question in the Samsung Members app. Find out more about sending an error report.

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