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JLava
User level: Level 1 (17 points)

Unable to block contacts since updating to iOS 26.

Since updating to iOS 26 (currently on iOS 26.5) on iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max, we are unable to block contacts (both calls in recents and text messages). Unable to add through the settings app and more frustratingly, from recents or messages. When we tap ‘block contact’, it changes to ‘unblock contact’, but if you exit and go back in, the contact really isn’t blocked and the button resets. I’ve searched and read all posts/websites for ideas and work-arounds, but nothing has worked.


From what I understand, iOS 26 has been fraught with bugs. I hope Apple is making a list of these issues and focuses on delivering much needed fixes.


Anyone else experience this and figure out a solution? Thanks in advance.

Posted on May 16, 2026 1:27 PM

5 replies

ConfusedWriter
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Sep 26, 2026 10:39 AM in response to JLava

Here's a weird work-around. BTW, I've got an 18 pro and IOS27.


When trying to block a number:

  1. Go to Recents
  2. Click the i button
  3. Click Block Contact (it will not work)
  4. Click Call History
  5. Go back
  6. Click Block Contact (it will work this time)


I hope they get this fixed soon.

MedicineMan777
User level: Level 1 (12 points)

Aug 24, 2026 7:35 AM in response to JLava

I also have not been able to find a solution to this problem but I believe a

workaround. After receiving a text and confirming it was probably fraud or spam

of some kind I selected report spam and delete right under the message. But I

copied the phone number before doing that because the report spam and delete

function does not add it to your block list. That is when I discovered, I am

experiencing the same problem that you are. I attempt to block the number by

pasting it in and hitting block but as soon as I paste the number in the “block

button” goes away. So frustrating and I do not understand why Apple cannot do

better. Anyway, the workaround, In my contacts I created a contact called

Blocked Contacts/Numbers. In this contact I add any phone number or email address

that my iPhone will not let me put on the block list and then I block this

contact. I believe this works pretty well and I hope it works for you.

epmarsden
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Jun 19, 2026 8:05 AM in response to JLava

Not a solution but a work round. Open message and open the reply curly arrow. The very last entry on the drop down menu is block contact. Do it and you will see the blocked contact emoji on message when you go back into mail

JLava Author
User level: Level 1 (17 points)

Aug 24, 2026 10:09 AM in response to MedicineMan777

Thanks, this is actually pretty clever! I will give this a try.

sleite
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Nov 10, 2026 2:45 PM in response to ConfusedWriter

This didn't work for me.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256298771