How to Unblock a Number on Any Device (Simple Steps)

Blocking a phone number is easy. But what if you want to undo it? Whether it’s a friend, family member, or an important contact, knowing how to unblock a number can save you from communication problems. This guide explains everything in simple terms so anyone can follow it.

Table of Contents

1. How to Unblock a Number on Android Phones

Steps to Access Blocked Contact List

On Android, blocking is done through the Phone or Contacts app. To unblock someone:

Open the Phone app.
Tap the three-dot menu at the top right.
Select Settings > Blocked Numbers.
Find the number you want to unblock.
Tap the X or Unblock beside the number.

That’s it! The number can now call or text you again.

Fixing Issues If the Number Won’t Unblock

Sometimes unblocking doesn’t work right away. If so:

Restart your phone.
Check if the number is also blocked in other apps like WhatsApp or Messages.
Make sure Do Not Disturb mode is off.

2. How to Unblock a Number on iPhone Devices

iOS Call Blocking Settings

To unblock a number on iPhone:

Go to Settings.
Scroll to Phone > Blocked Contacts.
Swipe left on the number.
Tap Unblock.

Unblock from Call History and Messages

You can also unblock directly from call logs or message threads:

In Phone app, go to Recents.
Tap the info (i) next to the number.
Scroll down and tap Unblock this Caller.

3. Why You Might Be Unable to Unblock a Number

Common Technical Reasons

There are times when unblocking fails:

System lag or outdated software
Third-party app conflicts
Network settings block calls

How to Troubleshoot Device Settings

Try these tips:

Update your device software.
Clear cache and restart your phone.
Remove any third-party call-blocking apps.

4. How to Unblock a Number on WhatsApp

Unblocking via WhatsApp Settings

To unblock on WhatsApp:

Open the app.
Tap three dots > Settings > Privacy > Blocked Contacts.
Tap the contact’s name.
Tap Unblock.

What Happens After You Unblock Someone

Once unblocked:

They can message and call you.
Past messages remain.
They won’t be notified that you unblocked them.

5. How to Find and Manage Blocked Numbers

Viewing Your Blocked List on Android/iPhone

Android: Phone > Settings > Blocked Numbers
iPhone: Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts

Managing Spam and Blocked Contacts

Delete old spam numbers.
Review your list monthly.
Keep only necessary blocks.

6. How to Unblock a Number from Your Carrier Settings

Contacting Carrier Support

Some numbers are blocked by your mobile provider. To fix:

Call customer service.
Ask if the number is blacklisted.
Request removal from the blocked list.

Understanding Carrier-Based Call Blocking

Carriers like Verizon or AT&T may auto-block numbers flagged as spam. You may need to:

Opt-out of spam-blocking services.
Use their mobile app to manage call filters.

7. How to Unblock a Number in Messaging Apps

SMS and Text Message Unblocking

Android Messages: Tap the conversation > More > Unblock.
iPhone Messages: Tap contact > Info > Unblock.

App-Specific Settings (Telegram, Signal, etc.)

Telegram: Settings > Privacy > Blocked Users
Signal: Settings > Privacy > Blocked

Navigate to the blocked list and tap to unblock.

8. How to Unblock a Number You Blocked by Mistake

Checking Recent Blocks

Look through your call or message history.
Note down any unfamiliar blocked numbers.

Steps to Undo Accidental Blocks

Visit the blocked list.
Cross-check and tap Unblock next to the right contact.

Mistakes happen. Just reverse it easily.

9. How to Stop Blocking Important Numbers Automatically

Review Spam Filters

Phone filters may wrongly block real numbers.

Adjust spam filter levels.
Whitelist known contacts.

Change Settings to Prevent Wrong Blocks

Disable auto-blocking apps.
Turn off “Block unknown callers” if needed.

10. How to Unblock a Number from Call History

iPhone Call Log Unblocking

Open Phone app.
Tap Recents > i (info).
Scroll and hit Unblock this caller.

Android Call History Method

Go to Call history.
Tap and hold the number.
Choose Unblock contact.

11. Difference Between Phone-Level and App-Level Blocking

System Block vs App Block Explained

Phone-level blocks stop all calls/messages.
App-level blocks only affect that app.

Which Method to Use and When

Use system block for serious cases.
Use app block for social issues (e.g., WhatsApp).

12. How to Unblock a Number with a Broken or Laggy Phone

Troubleshooting Older Android/iPhones

Restart your device.
Try safe mode.
Use a different phone if needed.

Third-Party Apps That Can Help

Apps like Truecaller or Hiya offer unblock tools and logs.

13. How to Block and Then Unblock a Number Safely

When Blocking Is a Better Option

Block someone if:

They spam call or text.
You need a break from contact.

How to Reverse It Without Issues

Just go to settings later and tap Unblock. No harm done.

14. Unblocking a Number That Still Can’t Reach You

What to Check If Calls Aren’t Going Through

Are they still blocked on another app?
Is your network working?

Network or Device Issues

Sometimes, SIM cards or service problems stop calls. Try:

Airplane mode reset
Network settings reset

15. Legal and Social Aspects of Unblocking Numbers

When to Unblock Someone Legally

If you’re told by court or law enforcement, follow rules. It might involve:

Court orders
Family legal matters

Social Situations and Phone Etiquette

Sometimes it’s kind to give someone a second chance. But always use your judgment.

Conclusion

Now you know how to unblock a number on any phone or app. Whether it’s a mistake, a second chance, or just fixing a tech issue, these steps make it easy. Take control of your contacts and stay connected.

FAQs About How to Unblock a Number

1. Can I unblock a number that I blocked a year ago?
Yes, if the number is still in your blocked list.

2. Will someone know if I unblock them?
No. They won’t get any notification.

3. Why can’t I unblock a number on Android?
Check if it’s blocked by a third-party app or your carrier.

4. Can I unblock numbers on WhatsApp and still not receive texts?
Yes, if the person is also blocked in your phone settings.

5. How do I unblock numbers on a Samsung phone?
Go to Phone app > Settings > Blocked numbers > Unblock.

6. What happens if I unblock a spam number?
You may receive calls or spam texts again.

7. Can I see past messages after unblocking?
Yes, previous messages remain.

8. Why is a blocked number still calling me?
The person may be using another number or app.

9. Is it safe to unblock unknown numbers?
Only unblock if you recognize the number.

10. Can I use apps to manage blocks and unblocks?
Yes, apps like Truecaller help you manage this.