Why Does My Phone Hang Up by Itself? Common Causes and Solutions

Imagine it’s the biggest day for your business. You are making that one call that could change the entire course of your life, but inadvertently, your phone hangs up 😠. 

Now, smashing your phone 📱 against the wall as hard as you can is not going to solve the issue, but there are many fixes that can keep you ready for the next time you call someone. 

In this article, we will discuss answers to the age-old question, “Why Does My Phone Hangs Up by Itself When Calling? ” We will also discuss common causes and solutions to those problems. 

Why Does Your Phone Keeps Hanging Up Itself on Android and iPhone?

Hang up issues disrupt communication on your mobile device. Resolving these issues will ensure seamless communication and an overall great experience with features like call recording. Hardware malfunction, insufficient storage capacity, and network connection are some of the common reasons behind your calls hanging up. 

Let’s look at the major reason behind your phone hanging up and why your call disconnects automatically:

1. Network Issues

A poor network drops or hangs the calls most of the time. If you have a weak signal, whether it is Wi-Fi texting or cellular networks, your calls may drop out. 

The call will be cut off in an area with low signal strength, such as remote hangouts or inside a building with thick walls. Dropped calls can also occur due to network congestion during peak hours or work being done on cellular towers.

2. Installed Apps 

Certain installed apps that demand critical system resources or use the Internet tend to conflict with call functions. 

Background processes running in apps (like SMS, Telegrams, Whatsapp.etc.) take a toll on your phone performance and network bandwidth; all of this may result in call lagging or disruptions, which can lead to calls dropping as well. 

Some apps with access to phone functions may also terminate the call (when they mistakenly determine that it is spam or non-legitimate call, e.g., in case of using a task manager/call blocker, etc.)

3. Outdated Software

For the best performance from your phone, it is very important that the operating system and app of the phone should be updated. 

Bugs and incompatibilities related to call functionality can also occur when there is outdated software of some sort or a software bug, usually the operating system or apps. 

These new issues usually get settled via updates that improve a phone’s performance, make it run smoother and also take care of compatibility with the latest network protocols along with bug fixes. If the software on your device is not updated, it can affect connectivity and result in hang-ups during calls.

4. Faulty Sim Card

If your SIM card is damaged or not properly connected, you won’t be able to make phone calls. Any issue or misplacement of your physical SIM may prevent you from calling. Call drops mid-conversation, or an inability to initiate a call may be due to a fault in your SIM card. 

This is often the case if you have recently swapped SIM cards or your card has been exposed to moisture or physically damaged, causing your phone to drop calls frequently.

5. Call Blockers or Third Party Apps

Many use third-party apps that block spam or other unwanted calls. Although these apps reliably filter calls to a large extent, they sometimes incorrectly drop rightful calls. 

The same is applicable to call-blocking apps that may also disrupt phone systems or have issues with other applications that run in the background. Do take a look at your app permissions, as some of those might be killing your calls automatically.

6. Weak Cellular Signals in Specific Locations

In poorly covered areas, your phone will be unable to maintain a steady connection. Some buildings or remote places — basements, concrete-enclosed locations, etc.- can block cellular signals. 

In such areas, calls may be dropped even if the signal strength shows excellent on your device. At times, the problem could be solved if you move to a location with a good network range.

Internet connectivity can also impact your phones. In some cases, turning on airplane mode might also be a reason behind dropped calls. 

7. VoIP App Conflicts

If you have Voice-Over IP (VoIP) apps installed on your phone, like Skype, WhatsApp, or Zoom, they may interfere with standard cellular calls. These apps frequently hijack your phone’s network resources and can interfere with any active call, particularly when on Wi-Fi. 

A background-running VoIP app can disrupt a traditional phone call and drop it since the phone cannot divert resources for both services and finish one call directly.

8. Carrier Specific Issues

Calls can disconnect due to network outages, software glitches tied to a particular carrier, or issues with tower maintenance. 

However, if you find that the issue persists only on a specific carrier, it is worth checking its website for any network issues related to yours. Moreover, changing the carrier settings can fix some calling stability issues and network-related problems.

Why Does My Phone Automatically Hang Up When I Call Someone?

If your phone keeps hanging up when you call someone, it could be because the person you are trying to reach has blocked you, their phone is in flight mode, turned off, or deactivated, or you have hit your call limit, or there is not enough balance.

These causes could result from deliberate or accidental activities. You may, however, leave a voicemail for them to hear at their convenience.

If your phone keeps hanging up when you call someone, it might also be due to hardware problems, network issues, or other software issues that were covered above.

Actionable Solutions When Your Phone Hangs Up By Itself When Calling

In an era where the connectivity between people is entirely dependent on phone calls, having your phone calls repeatedly hanging up will cause big issues. 

Have you wondered how you can get rid of these never-ending, persistent problems? Let’s look at some of the most effective solutions you might have to stop your phone from hanging up itself: 

1. Restart Your Phone

Sometimes, the solution to the complicated issue of phone hangups lies in a simple phone restart. Restarting a phone will resolve temporary issues caused by software glitches or some malware running the the background.

Restarting a phone is like giving it a fresh start. It clears the system’s temporary cache and resets active processes. Restarting the phone solves minor problems, causing calls to end up immediately. So, the next time your call drops immediately, try restarting your phone first before you take on more complex solutions. 

2. Reset Network Settings

Phone hangups can also arise from network related reasons like weak signal strength or incorrect settings. When your phone is constantly hanging up, you sometimes need to reset your network settings to solve the issue. 

Resetting your network settings will help to restore the Wi-Fi, mobile data, or Bluetooth settings to the default configuration. Any problem which may have risen due to network settings changes will be solved thereby. 

Let’s look at how to reset network settings:

For Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System (or General Management).
3. Tap Reset Options (or Reset).
4. Select Reset Network Settings.
5. Confirm by tapping Reset Settings.

For iPhone (iOS):

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to General.
3. Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
4. Tap Reset and choose Reset Network Settings.
5. Enter your passcode to confirm.

3. Check Battery Health

If your phone battery is faulty or old, it can sometimes contribute to call hangups. Although it is very rarely a case, sometimes a faulty battery may not be able to consistently supply charge, causing the phone to shut down and interrupt ongoing calls. 

If your battery health is below the optimal level, you can consider replacing it with a new one. With a healthy battery, you can then ensure that there are few to no unexpected call drops due to power issues. 

4. Update Software

Sometimes, the reason behind your call hangups is outdated software related reasons or software glitches. So, it is always considered a good practice to update your software regularly. Outdated software causes the phone hangs.

Manufacturers are constantly working on newer versions of phones software with eliminated glitches, enhanced security, and overall call stability. 

To check for updates, you can go to your phone’s settings and look for the software update section. With regular software updates, you can help to prevent various issues including call drops or automatically hanging up during calls. 

5. Test with a Different SIM Card

In some cases, a faulty SIM card can also cause network issues, leading to a call hang or the phone hanging up on its own. To get rid of this problem, you can test your phone with a different SIM card to see if the issue is solved. 

If the new SIM card resolves your issues, then you can replace your faulty SIM card with a new one and maintain a stable connection. 

One of the main reasons behind dropped calls is a faulty SIM card, so whenever you face issues, make sure you contact your carrier to determine whether that is the case. 

6. Uninstall Problematic Apps

Third-party apps can also be a reason behind call interruptions and automatic hanging up. Some unnecessary apps can ask for permission to manage your voice calls and interact with network functions. If they become problematic, they can interfere with the phone’s connectivity. 

Corrupted apps can also start causing issues with your phone’s systems by bringing compatibility issues. So, if you suspect any problems regarding third-party apps, make sure to take actionable steps like uninstalling the app or clearing its cache. 

Advanced Troubleshooting for Phone Hanging Up Itself

If the steps mentioned above do not solve your problems, then you have something bad going on on your phone. In such cases, you can also take advanced troubleshooting steps like seeking professional help to stop your phone from hanging up. 

Let’s look at some of the things you can do to see how you would troubleshoot your phone from hanging up itself: 

A. Check RAM and CPU Usage

Sometimes, call drops may be caused by high RAM and CPU usage, which interferes with call stability.  If your phone’s RAM and CPU are overloaded, it might cause calls to drop.

Follow the steps given below to ensure that your calls no longer drop: 

1. Open Developer Options: Settings> About Phone, tap “Build Number” 
2. Monitor Performance: Developer Options> Running Services or use apps like CPU-Z to monitor usage. 
3. Free Up RAM: Force stop apps in Settings > Apps > App Management. 
4. Disable Background Apps: Go to Settings > Apps >  App Management and restrict the background activity of the app that is causing issues. 

B. Clear Cache and Data of Apps

Apps can gather cache for a long time, causing issues with RAM and so on. Let’s look at how you would go on about fixing it:

1. Open Settings: Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Clear Cache: Select the app, tap Storage, and then Clear Cache.
3. Clear Data: Tap Clear Data to reset the app.
4. Restart: Reboot the phone.

C. Check for Overheating Issues

To solve any overheating issues, you can take general steps. You can close unnecessary apps and check on hardware issues. To make sure you miss no incoming calls, you can also follow these steps: 

1. Check Temperature: Use apps like CPU Monitor.
2. Cool Down: Turn off the phone; remove the case.
3. Limit Usage: Avoid heavy apps during calls.
4. Ventilate: Use in a cool, open area.

D. Update Carrier Settings Replace the Phone Battery 

Most of the time, you can correct these issues with a simple check of the battery or, in some cases, replacement. 

Follow these steps: 

1. Update Carrier Settings: Go to Settings > About Phone > Carrier Settings and update.
2. Check Battery Health: Use AccuBattery or similar apps.
3. Replace Battery: Install a new battery or visit a technician.

E. Perform a Signal Test

You can follow the steps mentioned below to check whether a weak signal causes the issue: 

1. Open Testing Menu: Dial *#*#4636#*#*.
2. Check Signal Strength: Select Phone Information and find RSSI (below -90 dBm = weak).
3. Switch Network Modes: Go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Preferred Network Type; test 4G, 3G, or 2G.
4. Relocate: Move to an area with better signal and retest calls.

Conclusion

Having calls suddenly hang up on you can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but there are various reasons why it happens and once you know all that, it’ll be easy to resolve.

 Whether your call drops due to network problems, an outdated software version on iPhone or Android, a malfunctioning SIM card, or a third-party app that prevents your phone from working properly, the solutions mentioned will lead you closer to stabilizing calls.

At the end of the day, a good phone prepares itself for these through regular updates, clearing cache, and proper app usage. Be patient and perform the procedure correctly; your telephone will be back to make face-to-face calls as soon as possible.

FAQs

Why does my phone hang up when I answer?

Various issues might cause your call to hang up. Some of the major issues might be weak signal strength, software glitch, or app conflicts. To resolve the problems, you can restart your phone, update apps, or, in some cases, check the strength of your signal. 

How can I tell if my phone is infected with malware?

There are various signs that your phone is infected with malware. The major signs are unusual battery drain, call interruptions where your call automatically hangs, slower performance, or apps you don’t recognize. A trustable antivirus software will cure almost all of your issues. 

What should I do if my phone continues to hang up after trying these solutions?

If all of your efforts to solve your phone’s issues go in vain, you might have to perform a factory reset. That will remove any software issues you might have. 

The reason the problem was not solved might be systematic hardware failure. If the issues persist, you should contact your carrier and get a replacement if no cure remains. 

Could my SIM card be causing my phone to hang up?

Yes, a faulty SIM card can cause your phone to hang up unexpectedly. To solve these issues, you might need to get a new SIM card completely. 

Is it normal for my phone to hang up if I’m using Bluetooth devices?

Yes, Bluetooth devices can sometimes cause interference or a software glitch, which can result in your phone hanging up. To solve this issue, you might need to turn off Bluetooth.