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When it comes to managing phone calls, everyone has different preferences. Some people may want to avoid interruptions and have all their calls go straight to voicemail, while others may simply want to filter out certain calls. If you’re an Android user looking for ways to make all your calls go straight to voicemail, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we will explore different methods that you can use to achieve this on your Android device. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to customize your call settings and have more control over your incoming calls.
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The Challenge of Making All Calls Go Straight to Voicemail
The challenge here lies in finding a way to direct all incoming calls to voicemail without the need to manually decline each call. Android devices are designed to accept incoming calls by default, so changing this default behavior might seem tricky. However, with the right settings and an understanding of the available options, you can easily redirect your calls to voicemail and enjoy uninterrupted moments of peace.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods, there are a few things you should be aware of and prepare for:
1. Android Device: Make sure you have an Android device running on a recent version of the operating system. While most methods should work on older versions, it is always recommended to keep your device updated to benefit from the latest features and improvements.
2. Call Settings Access: Different Android devices might have slightly different settings menus, but the concepts and options we will discuss should be available on most devices. Familiarize yourself with how to access your device’s call settings menu, as this will be essential for making the necessary changes.
3. Call Forwarding: Some methods may involve enabling call forwarding to voicemail. Check with your mobile service provider to ensure that you have the necessary features and that call forwarding to voicemail is included in your plan. Additional charges may apply depending on your provider.
Now that you know what to expect and have everything in place, let’s explore the methods you can use to make all calls go straight to voicemail on your Android device.
Method 1: Using the Silence or Do Not Disturb Mode
Silence or Do Not Disturb mode is a built-in feature in Android that allows you to block or silence incoming calls. By enabling this mode and customizing its settings, you can make all calls go straight to voicemail. Here’s how:
1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on "Sound" or "Sound & notification."
3. Look for options related to Do Not Disturb or Silence. On some devices, it may be included under the "Sound" or "Sound & notification" settings.
4. Enable Do Not Disturb or Silence mode. You may have different options, such as total silence or allowing specific exceptions for certain contacts or alarms. Choose the mode that suits your needs.
5. Customize the settings further if needed. Some devices allow you to add specific contacts to the exceptions list, ensuring that calls from important contacts are not silenced. Adjust any other settings according to your preferences.
Pros:
1. Easy to access and enable on most Android devices.
2. Customizable options to allow exceptions for specific contacts or alarms.
3. Can be scheduled to automatically activate during specific times, such as when you’re sleeping or in a meeting.
Cons:
1. May still receive notifications or sounds from other apps, depending on device settings.
2. Does not provide a seamless experience of calls going straight to voicemail.
3. Limited control over which calls are silenced and which ones would still ring.
Method 2: Using Call Blocking Apps
Call blocking apps are third-party applications that you can install on your Android device to block or redirect incoming calls. These apps provide more control and customization options compared to the built-in features of Android. Here’s how you can use a call blocking app to make all calls go straight to voicemail:
1. Visit the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for call blocking apps. There are various options available, such as "Should I Answer," "Calls Blacklist," or "Mr. Number." Read the reviews and choose an app that suits your needs.
3. Install the chosen app and open it.
4. Grant the necessary permissions for the app to function properly. These permissions may include access to your contacts and call history.
5. Explore the app’s settings and look for an option to redirect all calls to voicemail. The exact location and terminology may vary depending on the app you choose. Enable this feature.
6. Customize any additional settings or exceptions according to your preferences.
Pros:
1. Provides more control and customization options compared to built-in features.
2. Can block or redirect calls from specific numbers or number patterns.
3. Some apps offer additional features like automatic spam call detection and blocking.
Cons:
1. Requires installation and setup of a third-party app.
2. May have limitations or restrictions depending on the app developer’s implementation.
3. Some apps may show ads or require a premium version for full functionality.
Method 3: Using Call Forwarding
Call forwarding is a feature that redirects incoming calls to another number, such as your voicemail or another telephone number. By enabling call forwarding to your voicemail number, you can effectively make all calls go straight to voicemail. Here’s how you can set up call forwarding on your Android device:
1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Tap on the three-dot menu or the settings icon, usually located at the top-right corner of the screen.
3. Select "Settings" from the menu.
4. Look for the "Calls" or "Calling accounts" section and tap on it.
5. Tap on "Call forwarding" or a similar option. You may need to select the SIM card if your device has multiple SIM slots.
6. Choose the type of call forwarding you want to enable. You may have different options like "Forward when busy," "Forward when unanswered," or "Forward when unreachable." Select the appropriate option depending on your preference.
7. Enter your voicemail number or the desired forwarding number. If you are unsure about the voicemail number, contact your mobile service provider for assistance.
8. Save the settings and exit the Phone app.
Pros:
1. All incoming calls are automatically redirected to voicemail.
2. Works with most Android devices and supported by mobile service providers.
3. Provides a seamless experience of calls going straight to voicemail.
Cons:
1. Call forwarding may incur additional charges, depending on your mobile service provider.
2. Limited control over exceptions or customization options.
3. Requires access to your voicemail or forwarding number when you want to receive calls again.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Call Management Apps
In addition to call blocking apps, there are also third-party call management apps that offer advanced features for handling incoming calls. These apps allow you to create custom rules and actions for different scenarios, such as sending specific calls straight to voicemail. Here’s how you can use a third-party call management app to make all calls go straight to voicemail:
1. Visit the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for call management apps. Some popular options include "CallApp," "Truecaller," or "Hiya." Read the reviews and choose an app that suits your needs.
3. Install the chosen app and open it.
4. Grant the necessary permissions for the app to function properly. These permissions may include access to your contacts and call history.
5. Explore the app’s settings and look for options related to call routing or blocked numbers. The exact location and terminology may vary depending on the app you choose. Enable the desired features to redirect calls to voicemail.
6. Customize any additional settings or exceptions according to your preferences.
Pros:
1. Advanced features for call management and customization.
2. Ability to create custom rules for different scenarios, including making all calls go straight to voicemail.
3. Some apps offer additional features like caller ID, call recording, and spam call detection.
Cons:
1. Requires installation and setup of a third-party app.
2. May have limitations or restrictions depending on the app developer’s implementation.
3. Some apps may show ads or require a premium version for full functionality.
Why Can’t I Make All Calls Go Straight to Voicemail?
There might be several reasons why you’re unable to make all calls go straight to voicemail. Here are some common reasons and their possible fixes:
1. Call Settings Conflict: If you have previously set up call forwarding or enabled Do Not Disturb mode with specific exceptions, they might be conflicting with your goal of making all calls go straight to voicemail. Review your call settings and make sure there are no conflicting rules or exceptions.
2. Outdated Android Version: Older Android versions might not have certain features or options available to make all calls go straight to voicemail. Update your Android device to the latest version available to benefit from the most recent features and improvements.
3. Unsupported Device: In some rare cases, certain Android devices might not fully support redirecting all calls to voicemail. Check with the device manufacturer or consult the device’s user manual for information specific to your device.
Additional Tips
1. Add important contacts to your favorites or VIP list, if available on your device. This can ensure that calls from important contacts still ring, even when you have enabled settings to make all calls go straight to voicemail.
2. Consider enabling visual voicemail on your Android device. Visual voicemail allows you to view and manage your voicemail messages directly from your device, providing a more convenient way to stay updated without having to call your voicemail number.
3. If none of the methods mentioned in this article work for your specific device or preferences, consider reaching out to your mobile service provider for assistance. They may have additional features or options available to help you achieve your goal of making all calls go straight to voicemail.
5 FAQs about Making All Calls Go Straight to Voicemail
Q1: Can I still receive text messages and other notifications when calls go straight to voicemail?
A: Yes, making calls go straight to voicemail does not affect your ability to receive text messages or other notifications. These features are handled separately by your device’s settings.
Q2: Will callers know that their calls are going straight to voicemail?
A: No, callers will not receive any notification or indication that their calls are being sent to voicemail. It will appear as a regular ringing tone on their end until it eventually goes to voicemail.
Q3: Can I set different voicemail greetings for different contacts?
A: The ability to set different voicemail greetings for different contacts depends on your mobile service provider and the options they offer. Contact your provider or check their support documentation for specific instructions on managing your voicemail greetings.
Q4: What happens if I receive a call from a blocked number while using one of these methods?
A: If you have a call blocking app or feature enabled, calls from blocked numbers will likely be prevented from reaching your device altogether. They will not go to voicemail and will not generate any notification.
Q5: Can I use these methods temporarily and then revert to normal call settings?
A: Yes, all methods mentioned in this article can be enabled or disabled as needed. You can switch back to normal call settings by undoing the changes you made or by disabling the respective features.
In Conclusion
Customizing your call settings and redirecting all incoming calls to voicemail can provide you with uninterrupted moments when you need them. Whether you choose to use the built-in features of Android or opt for third-party apps, there are multiple methods available to make all calls go straight to voicemail on your Android device. Experiment with these methods and find the one that suits your needs and preferences the best. Remember to review your settings regularly and adjust them as necessary to ensure a seamless call management experience. Enjoy the peace and quiet!