You can decline an incoming iPhone call by pressing the side button twice quickly, tapping the on-screen Decline button when it is available, or swiping up on the incoming call banner. A single press of the side button or either volume button only silences the ringing; it does not decline the call.
Decline a Call with the Side Button
- When the iPhone starts ringing, press the side button twice quickly.
- The call is declined and, when voicemail is available, is sent to voicemail.
This is useful when the iPhone is locked and there is no obvious red Decline button on the screen.
Decline a Call from the Screen
If a Decline button appears, tap it. Apple also allows you to swipe up on the incoming call banner to decline the call.
How to Silence a Call Without Declining It
- Press the side button once, or press either volume button once.
- The ringtone and vibration stop.
- You can still answer the call before it goes to voicemail.
This is different from rejecting the call.
What Happens When You Decline a Call?
Apple states that a declined incoming call goes to voicemail. Carrier features and voicemail availability can affect what the caller ultimately experiences.
Can You Respond with a Text Instead?
For supported incoming calls, iPhone can offer a message response so you can decline the call and send a short text. The available options depend on the incoming-call screen and your current iOS configuration.
Summary
To decline an iPhone call, press the side button twice quickly, tap Decline, or swipe up on the incoming call banner. Pressing the side or volume button only once silences the call and leaves it available to answer.