iPhone 8 Can’t Make or Receive Calls After iOS 13 Update? Here’s How to Fix It

If your iPhone 8 suddenly stopped making or receiving calls right after installing iOS 13, you’re likely dealing with a post-update bug. Whether it’s stuck on “Dialing,” immediately ends calls, or fails to ring altogether, you’re not alone—and it’s usually fixable.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help get your calling features working again.

1. Restart Your iPhone (Soft Reset)

A simple reboot often clears out minor glitches that come after major updates.

To restart:

Hold the Side button until the power slider appears.
Drag the slider to power off.
Wait 30 seconds, then hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears.

Once it boots back up, try placing or receiving a call again.

2. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off

This trick resets your phone’s cellular radios and can clear up temporary calling issues.

To do it:

Go to Settings > Airplane Mode.
Turn it on for 10 seconds, then turn it off again.

Let your phone reconnect to your carrier, then test calling.

3. Update Carrier Settings

Carrier settings updates are often released after major iOS updates to keep calling, texting, and data stable.

To check for updates:

Go to Settings > General > About.
If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt—follow the instructions to install it.

Alternatively, you can update through iTunes if your device has internet issues.

4. Check Call Restrictions in Screen Time Settings

Sometimes, iOS updates re-enable restrictions that could block phone calls.

To check:

Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
Tap Allowed Apps and make sure Phone is turned on.

5. Reset Network Settings

If misconfigured settings are blocking your ability to make or receive calls, resetting network settings can help.

To reset:

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
Tap Reset Network Settings.
Enter your passcode and confirm.

Wi-Fi passwords will be erased, but your personal data will remain intact.

6. Remove and Reinsert SIM Card

A dislodged or damaged SIM card can also cause call failures.

To reinsert:

Power off your iPhone.
Use a SIM ejector tool or paperclip to pop out the SIM tray.
Remove and inspect the SIM card.
Reinsert the card properly, push the tray back in, and power on your iPhone.

If your SIM looks scratched or damaged, contact your carrier for a replacement.

7. Factory Reset Your iPhone (Last Resort)

If nothing else has worked, and you’ve backed up your data, you can erase your iPhone and start fresh.

To factory reset:

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
Enter your passcode and confirm.

Set up your iPhone again and test calling. If the issue is gone, restore your backup afterward.

Still Can’t Make or Receive Calls?

If the problem continues:

Check for network outages by calling your carrier or checking their website.
Contact Apple Support to report the bug.
If needed, perform a Recovery Mode or DFU Mode restore via a computer using Finder or iTunes—this can fix deep-level system corruption that’s causing call issues.