To untap your phone number, you need to unblock it by removing the number from your device's blocked contacts list. The process is documented for both iPhone and Android (Google Fi) and restores calls and texts from that contact.
How to untap your phone number
"Untap" in this context means unblocking a phone number you previously blocked. The two documented methods cover iPhones and Android devices using Google Fi. The goal is to remove the number from the blocked list so calls and messages from that contact come through again.
Untap a number on iPhone
Apple documents the unblock path as Settings → Apps → Phone → Blocked Contacts. In that list, tap Edit, then tap the delete control next to the number and tap Unblock.
Apple also documents an alternate path on the same iPhone blocked list: Settings → Privacy & Security → Blocked Contacts. On that screen, tap Edit, then tap the delete control next to the entry and tap Unblock.
Untap a number on Android with Google Fi
For Google Fi on Android, the documented path is Google Fi app or website → Account tab → Privacy & security → Spam and contact settings → Block phone numbers. To unblock, tap or click Remove next to the number, then select Unblock.
What to do if the number is not in your blocked list
The number may be blocked in another app, your carrier’s own block list, or a call-screening filter you have enabled. These paths only cover the documented built-in lists on iPhone and Google Fi.
If the goal is to restore calls from a specific number, Apple’s documented action is to remove it from Blocked Contacts; Google Fi’s documented action is to remove it from Block phone numbers.
Use caller ID and call blocking apps to identify and block unwanted numbers.
Contact your phone service provider to request a number change or additional protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my existing phone number to a new device?
Yes, in most cases you can transfer your existing phone number to a new device. This process is called number portability and can be done by contacting your new service provider. They will guide you through the necessary steps and documentation required to transfer your number, which may involve removing phone numbers from accounts on your old device.
Does untapping a number restore calls and texts from that contact?
Yes, untapping restores calls and texts from that number. Once you remove the number from the blocked list, calls and messages from that contact will come through normally again.
What if I blocked the number in a third-party app instead of the phone settings?
If the number was blocked in a separate call-blocking app, you need to open that app and unblock it there. The built-in iPhone and Google Fi settings only manage blocks created within those systems.
Can I block a number again after unblocking it?
Yes, you can block the same number again at any time by following the same steps in reverse: add it back to the blocked contacts list on your iPhone or to the blocked numbers list on Google Fi.
Will unblocking a number notify the person who was blocked?
No, unblocking a number does not send any notification to the contact. They will simply be able to reach you again when they call or text.
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls.
Be cautious about sharing your phone number online to prevent it from being targeted by spammers.
Caller ID spoofing is a risk where scammers manipulate caller ID to appear as someone else.
