Apple has always made privacy and security a top priority for its customers and it has showcased a new feature called Call Screening that can protect you from scam and spam callers.
Call Screening will be part of the upcoming iOS 26 update that will be officially released in September but that users can experience it now if they join Apple’s Public Beta.
When a call comes in from an unknown number Call Screening automatically answers the call in the background silently.
A Siri-like assistant speaks on your behalf and asks for the caller’s name and the reason for the call just like a real receptionist.
From here users can view a transcript of their responses on the iPhone display before deciding on whether they answer the call or ignore it.
And all the processing that powers this features happens entirely on the iPhone.
This feature will surely be a deterrent for scammers.
Phone scams have resulted in Australians losing millions of dollars each year.
Call Screening will become one way to protect yourself.
Android has a similar feature called Call Screen which was introduced last year.
Call Screening is one of the many safety and privacy features iPhone users will be able to access.
Another is Stolen Device Protection which can automatically add another layer of protection when your away from familiar places like home and work and when you’re travelling.
It is designed to protect your accounts and personal information in the event your iPhone is stolen.
Even if the thief has learned your passcode, it won’t be possible for them to change it or your Apple account password because it will require Face ID or Touch ID.
Users can install iOS 26 now through the Apple Public Beta program.
