Apple released iOS 17 on Thursday, September 25, 2025, introducing advanced AI-powered features aimed at blocking scam calls and filtering spam texts on iPhones. This update is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to improve phone usability and protect users from fraudulent communications.
The new call screening feature uses artificial intelligence to answer unknown calls automatically, asking callers to state their name and reason for calling. The iPhone then transcribes the response, allowing users to decide whether to answer or ignore the call. This feature is off by default but can be enabled in the Phone app settings under "Ask Reason for Calling."
Additionally, iOS 17 includes a spam text filtering system that is enabled by default. It helps users manage unwanted messages by automatically filtering suspected spam texts, although the exact workings of this feature may require user familiarization.
Users can also choose to silence unknown callers entirely, sending them directly to voicemail, or allow all calls from unknown numbers to ring through. The update offers flexibility to balance between blocking unwanted calls and not missing important ones.
Furthermore, iOS 17 provides options to organize call logs by filtering unknown and spam calls into separate lists within the Phone app, helping users keep their recent calls list uncluttered. This feature may rely on carrier support for spam identification.
Apple's introduction of these AI-based call and text screening tools responds to the widespread issue of robocalls and scam communications, which have led at least 80 percent of Americans to avoid answering calls from unknown numbers, according to industry data.
The update is available for all iPhones compatible with iOS 17, not limited to the latest models, and aims to enhance user control over incoming communications while reducing exposure to scams.
Sources: Vox (https://www.vox.com/technology/462755/apple-iphone-ios26-call-screening), ZDNET (https://www.zdnet.com/article/my-favorite-ios-26-feature-answers-unknown-calls-so-i-dont-have-to-heres-how/)
