iOS 26 Introduces New Setting to Prevent Accidental Calls

No More Awkward Accidental Calls

Apple has revealed a series of features at WWDC, but not everything was covered during the main presentation. Over the past week, several hidden upgrades in iOS 26 have come to light — including a small but impactful one: the ability to prevent accidental calls from your Recents list.

The change is subtle but meaningful. Previously, tapping a name in the Recents call log would immediately initiate a phone call — something that led to countless awkward moments and unintended conversations.

Now, iOS 26 allows users to toggle off this behavior. Instead of immediately calling, your iPhone will open the contact card first, allowing you to confirm before making a call.

How It Works & Where to Find It

According to a discovery shared by X user

iOS 26 adds a “tap recents to call” option. I can’t see why anyone would want to turn this on, no more accidentally calling someone! https://twitter.com/aaronp613/status/1932956651138482434
— Aaron (@aaronp613) May 27, 2025

This new toggle is found in the Settings app under the Phone section. It’s called “Tap Recents to Call.” By default, the feature is disabled, meaning tapping a name shows the contact card first.

However, users who prefer speed over safety can enable the feature manually. Once activated, tapping a name or number in Recents will immediately dial the contact.

MacRumors notes this option is available only in the new UI introduced with iOS 26 and not present in the classic interface.

It’s a small addition — but for many, it may save face more than once.