Introduction
Few things are more frustrating than your phone freezing mid-conversation. Whether you’re using it for business, emergencies, or just chatting with friends, a frozen phone during calls can disrupt communication and cause serious inconvenience. At iDoctorCT, your trusted source for mobile phone repair near you, we’ve helped hundreds of customers solve this exact issue. This blog walks you through why your phone freezes during calls, what you can do about it, and when to seek professional help.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. If you’re uncertain about any steps, consult a certified repair technician at iDoctorCT.
Why Does Your Phone Freeze During Calls?
A freezing phone during voice or video calls can be caused by a range of factors. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Outdated Operating System
Outdated firmware may not support newer app versions or security protocols used during calls. System lags and bugs build up when OS updates are ignored for too long. Apple Support emphasizes the importance of keeping your device updated to avoid performance lags.
2. Insufficient RAM or CPU Overload
If your phone is running multiple applications in the background, it could be using too much of your device’s RAM or processor power. This strain on resources can cause call functions to freeze, especially during long or video-intensive calls.
3. Buggy App Updates
Sometimes, the phone or dialer app you use may receive an update that includes bugs. These bugs can interfere with the phone’s ability to maintain a stable call session. Always review app update notes and user reviews.
4. Network or SIM Card Issues
A weak signal, network dropouts, or a damaged/misaligned SIM card can result in your phone struggling to maintain a call, often freezing mid-conversation.
5. Malware or Malicious Apps
If you’ve downloaded an unverified app, it could be running malicious scripts in the background that interfere with essential phone processes, including voice calls. Tools like Malwarebytes for Mobile help identify and remove these threats.
6. Storage Constraints
Phones with low internal storage struggle to perform real-time operations like calls. Caching, call logging, and voice recording all require temporary storage space.
7. Thermal Overload (Overheating)
During prolonged calls, especially in hot environments, your phone can overheat. To protect internal components, it may freeze or shut down certain functions—including call services.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot this issue at home.
Step 1: Restart Your Phone
This clears temporary memory and resolves many transient bugs.
- iPhone: Press and hold Volume Down + Power until you see the Apple logo.
- Android: Hold Power + Volume Down for 10 seconds.
Restarting will also reset background processes that may be conflicting with your call.
Step 2: Check for Software Updates
Go to:
- iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update
- Android: Settings > System > System Update
Ensure all system apps, especially the dialer and phone app, are also updated.
Visit our iPhone repair or Samsung phone repair pages for update-related assistance.
Step 3: Free Up RAM and Storage
- Close unnecessary background apps.
- Delete old media files or transfer them to cloud storage.
- Uninstall unused apps.
Step 4: Clear Cache for Call and System Apps
On Android:
- Settings > Apps > Phone > Storage > Clear Cache
- Do the same for Contacts, Messages, and any third-party dialer
On iPhone:
- Delete and reinstall buggy apps
Step 5: Test and Reseat SIM Card
- Remove SIM using a SIM ejector tool
- Check for dirt or scratches
- Reinsert or replace with a spare SIM
If needed, visit Other Device Repairs at iDoctorCT for help with SIM trays or signal issues.
Step 6: Use Safe Mode to Identify Problem Apps
- Android: Hold power button > Long-press “Power off” > Tap “Safe Mode”
- iPhone: Safe Mode not available unless jailbroken
In Safe Mode, third-party apps are disabled. If calls work fine, you know the issue is app-related.
Step 7: Run a Malware Scan
Install a trusted tool like Malwarebytes for Mobile and do a full scan. Delete any flagged apps or files.
Explore our Smartphone Repair service if malware has damaged your system files.
Advanced Fixes If Basic Steps Fail
If you’re still having problems, it’s time to go beyond basic troubleshooting.
Factory Reset
Back up your data first. Then:
- iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content
- Android: Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset
This wipes all settings and apps. Ideal if software corruption is deep-rooted.
Firmware Flash (For Experts Only)
Use tools like:
- Android: SP Flash Tool, Odin (Samsung)
- iPhone: iTunes with .ipsw files
This resets the OS completely. Recommended only if you’re confident or with a technician’s help.
Replace SIM Tray or Logic Board
A loose SIM tray or partially damaged motherboard may require professional attention. We handle such advanced issues through our Computer Repair and Console Repair departments.
Preventing Freezing Issues During Calls
Take these proactive measures to stop call freezing before it starts:
Regular Software Maintenance
- Enable auto-updates for the OS and key apps
- Check for patches and security releases monthly (Apple Support – How to Update iOS)
Optimize Storage Monthly
- Keep at least 20–30% storage free
- Transfer photos/videos to cloud or PC
Control Background Activity
- Disable auto-start for unnecessary apps
- Turn off background app refresh
Monitor Battery Health and Temperature
- Don’t use the phone while charging for long calls
- Avoid direct sunlight or car dashboards
- Replace batteries when health dips below 80%
Avoid Untrusted Apps
- Use only Google Play and Apple Store
- Read reviews and permissions before installation
When to Visit iDoctorCT
If your phone continues freezing during calls after all efforts:
- iPhone Repairs
- Android Repairs
- Tablet Repairs
- Mac Repair
- Console Repair
- Sell your old phone or apply for financing
We offer same-day service, certified techs, and OEM-grade parts.
Conclusion
A phone that freezes during calls could mean anything from a minor app bug to a serious hardware issue. If your device has become unreliable and DIY fixes aren’t cutting it, trust the professionals at iDoctorCT. Whether you’re dealing with an iPhone repair near me, mobile repair + Connecticut, or even console issues, we’ve got the tools and experience to restore your tech.
FAQs
Q1: Why does my phone freeze only during long calls?
Likely due to overheating or RAM overload from background apps.
Q2: Can phone cases cause freezing?
Yes, if they block ventilation and cause overheating.
Q3: Is a frozen phone during calls a hardware issue?
Not always, but it could be. Persistent freezing warrants diagnostics.
Q4: How long should a phone last before it starts freezing?
Most phones work smoothly for 3–4 years if well-maintained.
Q5: Do VoIP or Wi-Fi calls freeze more often?
They can. Poor Wi-Fi quality or router issues may cause lag or freezing.
