9 Steps to Fix Dropped Calls on Your Android Phone

There’s nothing more frustrating than being in the middle of an important phone call, only to have it abruptly cut off. Dropped calls are a common problem for Android users, but the good news is there are several steps you can take to fix the issue. In this article, we’ll walk through the most effective solutions to stop your Android phone from dropping calls.

What Causes Dropped Calls on Android?

Before we dive into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand some of the common reasons why calls get dropped on Android devices:

• Weak cellular signal: If you’re in an area with poor reception or a lot of interference, your phone may struggle to maintain a stable connection.
• Network congestion: When too many people are trying to use the same cell tower, it can lead to dropped calls.
• Software issues: Outdated or buggy software on your phone can cause various problems, including call drops.
• Hardware problems: A damaged antenna, SIM card, or other physical defects with your device could be the culprit.

Now that we know some of the potential causes, let’s look at how to resolve dropped calls on your Android phone.

Step 1: Check Your Signal Strength

The first thing to do when troubleshooting dropped calls is to check your phone’s signal strength. If you only have one or two bars, that indicates a weak connection that is prone to dropping.

Try moving to a different location to see if your signal improves. If you’re indoors, go outside or get close to a window. Avoid known dead zones in buildings like elevators and basements.

Step 2: Restart Your Phone

Many Android issues can be fixed with a simple reboot, and dropped calls are no exception. Restarting your device clears out the phone’s temporary memory and gives it a fresh start.

To restart most Android phones:

1. Press and hold the power button until the power menu appears.
2. Tap Restart.
3. Wait for your phone to power back on.

Step 3: Toggle Airplane Mode

Toggling your phone’s airplane mode on and off is another quick fix to try. This temporarily disables your device’s cellular and wireless connections before re-enabling them, which can help restore a dropped connection.

Here’s how:

1. Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings panel.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to turn it on. Wait a few seconds.
3. Tap Airplane Mode again to turn it off.

Step 4: Update Your Phone’s Software

Using an outdated version of Android can lead to compatibility issues with your carrier’s network. These software problems often result in dropped calls.

To check for updates:

1. Open your phone’s Settings app.
2. Tap System and then System Update.
3. Tap Check for Update. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, as operating system updates can be quite large.

Step 5: Remove Your Phone Case

Believe it or not, some phone cases can actually interfere with your device’s cellular signal. If you’re using a particularly bulky case, try removing it and see if your dropped call issue improves.

Step 6: Check for Carrier Outages

In some cases, dropped calls are outside of your control. Widespread outages or maintenance on your carrier’s network could be the reason you’re experiencing issues.

Visit your carrier’s website or social media pages to see if they’ve reported any known outages in your area.

Step 7: Reset Your Network Settings

Resetting your network settings can resolve various connectivity problems, including dropped calls. Keep in mind this will erase your saved Wi-Fi passwords and paired Bluetooth devices.

To reset network settings:

1. Open Settings and tap System.
2. Tap Reset options.
3. Tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
4. Tap Reset settings to confirm.

Step 8: Contact Your Carrier

If you’re still experiencing frequent dropped calls after trying these fixes, it’s time to contact your wireless carrier. They can check for issues with your account, SIM card, or coverage area.

Your carrier may be able to provide a replacement SIM card or offer further technical support specific to your device and network.

Step 9: Consider a Signal Booster

For those who live or work in areas with consistently poor cellular reception, a signal booster may help reduce dropped calls. These devices amplify the existing signal in your home, car, or office.

Several options are available from brands like WeBoost and SureCall. Just make sure the booster you choose is compatible with your phone and carrier.

Conclusion

Dropped calls are annoying, but they don’t have to be a persistent problem. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and resolve the most common causes of dropped calls on your Android device.

Start with the basics like checking your signal strength and restarting your phone. Make sure your phone’s software is up to date, and consider removing bulky cases that could be blocking your antenna. Resetting your network settings or even just toggling airplane mode on and off can also do the trick.

If those steps don’t help, don’t hesitate to reach out to your wireless carrier for further assistance. And for those in low-signal areas, investing in a cellular booster could make a world of difference.

With a little patience and persistence, you can say goodbye to dropped calls and enjoy clearer conversations on your Android phone.