Why Doesn't My iPhone Ring? 10 Solutions to Fix iPhone Not Ringing Issues

If your iPhone isn’t ringing, it can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you're missing important calls. Whether you're not hearing the phone ring for incoming calls or it's not ringing when you're calling someone, this issue has multiple potential causes. Fortunately, there are several ways to troubleshoot and resolve this problem. In this guide, we’ll cover 10 possible reasons why your iPhone isn’t ringing and how you can fix it, ensuring you never miss another call.

How to Fix iPhone Not Ringing for Incoming Calls?

There are several reasons why your iPhone might not be ringing for incoming calls. Here are some common culprits and detailed solutions to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. These solutions apply to all iPhone models, including iPhone 12 and iPhone 15.

1. Check the Silent/Ringer Switch (Physical Switch Test)

Many users don't realize their iPhone isn't ringing simply because the physical mute switch is engaged. If you see an orange stripe on the switch (located on the left side of your iPhone), it means your phone is in silent mode.

✅How to Fix:

• Flip the switch toward the screen to turn off silent mode

• You should hear a confirmation chime when done correctly

• Test by having someone call you immediately

2. Adjust Ringer Volume Settings Properly

Sometimes the "iPhone not ringing" issue occurs because the ringer volume is too low or accidentally muted. This is different from media volume.

✅How to Fix:

• Press the Volume Up button on the side of your iPhone

• Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics

• Drag the "Ringer and Alerts" slider to maximum

• Turn off "Change with Buttons" to keep ringer volume independent.

  

3. Disable Do Not Disturb Mode Completely

When your "iPhone doesn't ring when I call someone," Do Not Disturb (DND) mode silences incoming calls, notifications, and alerts, making it a common culprit when your iPhone isn’t ringing.

✅How to Fix:

• Open Control Center (swipe down from top-right on newer models)

• Look for the moon icon - if highlighted, DND is active

• Tap to disable it immediately

• Alternatively, go to Settings > Focus > Do Not Disturb

  

4. Verify Call Forwarding Isn't Activated

If your "iPhone not ringing when calling someone," calls might be forwarded to another number without your knowledge.

✅How to Fix:

• Open the Phone app

• Go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding

• Ensure the toggle is switched off

• If enabled, your calls are being redirected elsewhere

  

5. Check Bluetooth Connections That Might Interfere

A common reason for "why my iPhone doesn't ring" is audio being routed to Bluetooth devices like AirPods or car systems.

✅How to Fix:

• Swipe into Control Center

• Tap the Bluetooth icon to disable it temporarily

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth to see connected devices

• Disconnect any audio devices that might be taking calls

  

6. Update iOS to Fix Potential Software Bugs

If your "iPhone 12 not ringing" or "iPhone 15 not ring" issue persists, outdated software could be responsible.

✅How to Fix:

• Connect to Wi-Fi

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update

• Download and install any available updates

• Many users report fixed ringer issues after updating

7. Reset All Settings (Without Data Loss)

When "why is my ringer off on my iPhone" has no obvious answer, resetting settings often helps.

✅How to Fix:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

• Select Reset > Reset All Settings

• This won't erase data but will reset preferences

• You'll need to reconfigure Wi-Fi, display, etc.

  

8. Check for Blocked Contacts or Notification Settings

If "iPhone not ringing when called" happens with specific contacts, they might be blocked.

✅How to Fix:

• Open Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts

• Review the list and unblock if necessary

• Also check Settings > Notifications > Phone

• Ensure "Allow Notifications" is enabled

  

9. Restore iPhone from Backup (Last Resort)

For persistent "iPhone not ringing for incoming calls" issues, a full restore might be needed.

✅How to Fix:

• Back up via iCloud or computer

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

• Choose "Erase All Content and Settings"

• Set up as new or restore from backup

  

💡 Note: If you lose important data during troubleshooting, professional tools like Gbyte Recovery can help retrieve deleted call logs and messages.

10. Seek Apple Support for Hardware Issues

If your "iPhone not ringing when called" problem continues after all software fixes, hardware may be faulty.

✅How to Fix:

• Visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider

• Request speaker diagnostics

• iPhone 12 and iPhone 15 models may need component replacement

Final Thoughts: Never Miss a Call Again

From iPhone 12 to iPhone 15, the "why doesn't my iPhone ring" problem typically stems from software settings rather than hardware. By methodically working through these solutions - from checking the silent switch to updating iOS - you should resolve the "iPhone not ringing" issue.

FAQs

Q1: Why doesn’t my iPhone ring when I call someone?

There could be various reasons, including the person you're calling having their phone on silent or Do Not Disturb, or issues with your network settings.

Q2: How can I prevent my iPhone from not ringing again?

Ensure your ringer volume is set correctly, Do Not Disturb mode is off, and you're not connected to Bluetooth devices. Regularly check for software updates.

Q3: What if I’ve lost data while troubleshooting?

If you lost photos, messages, or other data while troubleshooting, you can use Gbyte Recovery to recover your lost files.