Updated your iPhone only to figure out that the Call Forwarding has altogether stopped working? Whether incoming calls are no longer being forwarded, the Call Forwarding option is missing, or you receive an error while trying to enable the feature, you’re not alone. In this in-depth guide, I’ve rounded up the 11 best tips and tricks to fix the iPhone call forwarding not working issue. Keep reading to…
How to Fix Call Forwarding Not Working on iPhone After Update
Software updates can occasionally affect carrier settings, network configurations, or system services that are essential for call forwarding to function properly. Hence, we will need to have a detailed look into these culprits and take them into account.
1. Make Sure Call Forwarding Is Enabled
Why this works:
After a software update, certain network-related settings may be turned off or reset automatically. Verifying that Call Forwarding is enabled ensures the feature is configured correctly before trying more advanced troubleshooting steps.
- Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
- Tap Apps > Phone.
- Select Call Forwarding and turn it on.
- In the end, be sure to enter the forwarding phone number if prompted.
2. Restart Your iPhone
Why this works:
A restart refreshes system services and reloads the network processes that manage phone calls. Temporary software glitches introduced after an update are often resolved with a simple reboot.
- Press and hold the appropriate buttons to power off your iPhone.
- Drag the Power Off slider.
- Next, make sure to wait for about 30 seconds and turn your iPhone back on.
3. Check Your Cellular Signal
Why this works:
Call Forwarding relies on your carrier’s cellular network. A weak or unstable signal can prevent your iPhone from activating or maintaining call forwarding settings.
- Check the signal bars in the status bar.
- Move to an area with stronger cellular coverage.
- Disable Airplane Mode if it is enabled.
- Wait for your iPhone to reconnect to the network.
- Try enabling Call Forwarding again.
- Test the feature with another phone.
4. Update Carrier Settings
Why this works:
Carrier settings updates include important improvements for cellular services such as calling, voicemail, and Call Forwarding. Installing the latest carrier settings can resolve compatibility issues after a software update.
- On your iOS device, head straight into Settings > General > About.
- Now, be sure to wait for a few seconds and install the carrier settings update if prompted.
5. Verify That Your Carrier Supports Call Forwarding
Why this works:
Not every carrier or mobile plan includes Call Forwarding. Some providers require the feature to be activated on your account before it can be used.
- Contact your mobile carrier.
- Confirm that Call Forwarding is included in your plan.
- Ask whether the feature is active on your account.
- Request activation if necessary.
- Restart your iPhone after any account changes.
- Test the feature again.
6. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off
Why this works:
Airplane Mode disconnects your iPhone from all wireless networks. Turning it off reconnects your device to the carrier network with a fresh cellular session.
- Open Control Center.
- Turn on Airplane Mode.
- Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Turn Airplane Mode off and make sure to allow your iPhone to reconnect to the network.
7. Reset Network Settings
Why this works:
Corrupted network settings after an update can interfere with carrier services. Resetting network settings restores all cellular, Wi-Fi, and VPN configurations to their default state.
- Navigate to Settings > General.
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Choose Reset Network Settings.
- After that, you need to enter your passcode if prompted and confirm the reset.
8. Reinsert Your SIM Card or Check Your eSIM
Why this works:
A loose SIM card or an improperly configured eSIM can affect communication with your carrier’s network, preventing Call Forwarding from working correctly.
- To begin, turn off your iPhone.
- Remove the SIM card using the SIM eject tool.
- Inspect the SIM card for any visible damage.
- Reinsert the SIM card securely.
- If using an eSIM, verify that it is active in Settings.
- Turn your iPhone back on.
- Test Call Forwarding again.
9. Install the Latest iOS Update
Why this works:
Apple frequently releases software updates to fix bugs discovered after major iOS releases. If Call Forwarding stopped working due to a software bug, a newer update may resolve the issue.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General.
- Select Software Update > download and install any available update.
- Restart your iPhone and enable Call Forwarding again.
10. Reset All Settings
Why this works:
If a hidden system configuration is causing the issue, resetting all settings restores default preferences without deleting your photos, apps, or personal files.
- Open Settings on your iPhone > General.
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset > Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm the reset.
11. Contact Your Carrier or Apple Support
Why this works:
If none of the previous solutions work, the issue may be related to your carrier’s network, account provisioning, or a software problem that requires professional assistance.
- Contact your mobile carrier’s customer support.
- Explain that Call Forwarding stopped working after the update.
- Ask them to verify your account settings.
- If the carrier confirms everything is correct, contact Apple Support.
- Follow any troubleshooting recommendations provided.
- Schedule a service appointment if necessary.
FAQs
1. Why did Call Forwarding stop working after updating my iPhone?
Software updates can occasionally affect carrier settings, network configurations, or system services responsible for call management. In most cases, updating carrier settings or resetting network settings resolves the problem.
2. Does every carrier support Call Forwarding?
No. While many carriers support Call Forwarding, availability depends on your provider and your mobile plan. Some carriers require the feature to be activated before it can be used.
3. Will resetting network settings delete my personal data?
No. Resetting network settings only removes saved Wi-Fi passwords, VPN settings, and cellular network preferences. Your photos, contacts, messages, and apps remain safe.
4. How can I tell if Call Forwarding is working?
After enabling the feature, call your iPhone from another phone. If the call is automatically redirected to the forwarding number you specified, Call Forwarding is working correctly.
Wrapping up..!
And that’s about it! Call Forwarding is an essential feature for staying connected when you’re unavailable, so it can be frustrating when it stops working after an iPhone update. Thankfully, the problem is often caused by temporary software glitches, outdated carrier settings, or network configuration issues rather than a serious fault.
