Prevent Accidental Call Drops on Your iPhone
A single setting change can stop your iPhone from ending calls when you accidentally press the side button, a common frustration for many users.
Many iPhone users have experienced the frustration of a call dropping without either party intentionally hanging up. This often happens when the side button is pressed accidentally while holding the phone. Since iOS 16, this button is programmed to end calls by default, a behavior that persists in newer versions.
According to reports from GN technics/mobile (en-US), this feature is designed to be convenient but often leads to unintended call termination. The solution involves adjusting a specific accessibility setting to prevent the lock button from disconnecting active conversations.
Locating the hidden setting
The option to change this behavior is not found in the standard Phone app or general settings menu. Instead, it is buried within the Accessibility section of the Settings app. Users need to navigate to the Physical and Motor section, then select Touch to find the relevant toggle.
Once there, users can enable a specific option labeled Prevent Lock to End Calls. This setting is distinct from general touch sensitivity adjustments and is specifically designed to decouple the side button function from call termination.
How the fix works
Enabling this setting changes the behavior of the side button during active calls. Instead of immediately ending the conversation, pressing the button will only turn off the screen. The call remains active in the background, preventing accidental disconnections.
This trade-off means that users can no longer end a call by locking the screen. They must use the on-screen red hang-up button or the volume keys if configured differently. For most people, this is a preferable exchange for the reliability of keeping calls connected.
Practical implications for users
This adjustment is particularly useful for individuals who hold their phones tightly or use one hand while walking. It removes a significant source of call drops without requiring third-party apps or complex workarounds.
However, users should be aware that this setting applies to all calls, including FaceTime and third-party VoIP apps. It is a global change that prioritizes call stability over the quick-hangup functionality of the side button.
