Apple has consistently focused on improving user convenience through smart features and accessibility tools. One such lesser-known but extremely useful feature allows iPhone users to answer incoming calls automatically without touching the screen. This option can be especially helpful when your hands are busy—such as while cooking, driving, exercising, or when the phone is placed out of reach.
With the help of Apple’s built-in Auto-Answer Calls feature, users can enjoy a truly hands-free calling experience.
Why Answering Calls Hands-Free Matters
Modern smartphones are powerful, but they still require physical interaction most of the time. Situations where touching the screen is inconvenient or unsafe are common. For example:
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While driving with the phone connected to Bluetooth
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When cooking or eating
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During workouts or manual tasks
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When your phone is charging at a distance
Apple addressed this problem by introducing Auto-Answer Calls as part of its accessibility-focused updates.
What Is the Auto-Answer Calls Feature on iPhone?
The Auto-Answer Calls feature was introduced with iOS 13 and later versions. When enabled, your iPhone automatically answers incoming calls after a short delay, without requiring you to tap the screen.
This feature works with:
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Regular cellular phone calls
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FaceTime audio and video calls
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WhatsApp calls (when routed correctly)
Once activated, the call connects automatically after the preset ring duration.
How to Answer Calls on iPhone Without Touching the Screen
Follow these steps to enable hands-free call answering on your iPhone:
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Open the Settings app on your iPhone
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Scroll down and tap Accessibility
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Under the Physical and Motor section, select Touch
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Tap on Call Audio Routing
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Enable the Auto-Answer Calls toggle
Once turned on, your iPhone will automatically accept calls without any manual input.
How Auto-Answer Calls Works in Real Life
After enabling this feature:
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Your phone will ring as usual
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After a short delay, the call will be answered automatically
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Audio will route based on your selected output (speaker, headphones, or Bluetooth)
This makes it ideal for users who rely on wireless earphones, car Bluetooth systems, or speaker mode.
Who Should Use This Feature?
Auto-Answer Calls is especially useful for:
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Drivers using hands-free systems
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People with physical or motor disabilities
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Professionals who need uninterrupted workflows
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Users who prefer minimal interaction with their phone
Apple designed this feature as part of its broader accessibility initiative, but it benefits all users.
Things to Keep in Mind
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Auto-Answer Calls answers all incoming calls, not selected ones
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Callers will not know the call was auto-answered
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The feature should be used cautiously in public or private settings
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You can turn it off anytime by following the same steps
Final Thoughts
Apple’s Auto-Answer Calls feature is a smart solution for hands-free communication. Whether you’re multitasking, driving, or simply prefer minimal screen interaction, this option adds convenience and safety to everyday phone usage. It’s another example of how iOS accessibility tools go beyond special needs and improve the experience for everyone.
