How to Block Texts, Calls and iMessages on iOS 7

Blocking texts, calls and instant messaging services is a standard feature among modern smartphones. Let's face it, there are companies or people that we just don't want to hear from, never again! So it's baffling that Apple hasn't allowed basic text and call blocking into iOS. Well, at least until iOS 7 came along. Now you can block annoying telemarketers, unrelenting exes, spammers, obnoxious friends and so on with iOS 7. Here's how to block texts, calls and iMessages on iOS 7.

How to Block Texts, Calls and iMessages on iOS 7

How to Block Texts on iOS 7?

To block texts on iOS 7, simply navigate to Settings > Messages > Blocked. Tapping Blocked will take you to the list of blocked contacts. Tap Add New to add existing contacts to your block list. And that's pretty much it. Note that the block list is universal which means that once you have added someone to it, they won't be able to contact you via text, call, iMessages or FaceTime.

How to Block Calls / FaceTime on iOS 7?

The process is pretty much the same when blocking calls / FaceTime calls on iOS 7. Just go toSettings > Phone / FaceTime > Blocked, and start adding contacts to your block list. Again, the block list applies to phone calls, text messages / iMessage, and FaceTime calls. This means that even if you have only added someone to keep him from sending you messages, his or her calls will be blocked as well. As of this time, there is no way to block specific phone functions.

How to Block Unknown Numbers on iOS 7?

What if you want to block someone who's not an existing contact? Again, the process is fairly simple. To block unknown numbers that have recently called you, go to Contacts > Recents > then you should see the"i" symbol located next to a contact's name. Simply find the contact that you need to block, tap the "i"symbol, scroll down and you will find the Block this Caller button. Tap the button and the Block Contactoption after.

To block someone who has recently sent you an annoying message, just go to the Messages app, find the contact, tap the conversation, and you should see the Contact button at the top right. Tap Contact and you should see the familiar "i" button symbol. Tap it, scroll down, and tap the Block this Caller button.

How to Unblock a Person on iOS 7?

Unblocking a person is just about as easy as blocking calls and texts on iOS 7. Go to Settings, tap either Phone, Messages or FaceTime, scroll down and tap Blocked. This is your official block list. To unblock a contact, simply swipe to the left on their names and a red Unblock button should appear.

As you can see, blocking texts and calls on iOS 7 is as simple as they come. However, we would definitely prefer if we are able to block certain phone functions in the future. But that's just us nitpicking. We're fairly happy that Apple has finally added basic blocking features.