Symptoms
- Call ends abruptly with no warning
- Happens more in certain locations
- Signal bars are low when it happens
- Other calls in strong-signal areas work fine
Likely causes
- CommonWeak cellular signal in the areaDead zones, thick buildings, or being far from a tower commonly interrupt calls.
- CommonCarrier network congestion or outageHigh usage times or a local outage can drop calls even with visible signal bars.
- PossibleWi-Fi calling switching mid-callMoving between Wi-Fi and cellular during a call can cause a brief disconnect.
- PossibleOutdated carrier settings or softwareMissing carrier updates can cause instability in call handling.
- Less commonSIM card issue or damaged SIM tray contactA loose or worn SIM connection can intermittently drop the cellular connection.
What to do
- Check the signal bars or dB reading in phone settings when a call drops, to see if location is the cause.
- Try the same call from a different location, especially outdoors or near a window.
- Turn on Airplane Mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off to refresh the network connection.
- Check for and install any pending carrier settings or software updates.
- Turn Wi-Fi Calling off temporarily and test if calls drop specifically during a Wi-Fi to cellular handoff.
- Remove and reseat the SIM card to rule out a loose connection.
- Ask someone else on the same carrier nearby if they're also having call issues, which suggests a network problem.
- If drops continue everywhere regardless of location, contact your carrier to check for an account or network issue.
When to call a pro
If calls drop consistently across locations and other people on your carrier report the same, contact your carrier's support for a network-level issue.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.