“Call Failed” error on Apple Watch can occur when attempting to make calls directly from the device. Below are several troubleshooting methods to resolve this issue.
Ways to Fix Call Failed Error on Apple Watch
1. Re-Pair Your Bluetooth Headphones
If you’re using wireless headphones with your Apple Watch, connection issues may disrupt calls. Try re-pairing them:
- Open Settings on your Apple Watch and tap Bluetooth.
- Tap the (i) icon next to your headphones and select Forget Device.
- Test the call function again.
- If resolved, re-pair the headphones and check if the issue persists.
2. Re-Pair Your Apple Watch with iPhone
Temporary software glitches may cause call failures. Re-pairing the devices can help:
- Keep your iPhone and Apple Watch close together.
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to the My Watch tab and select your watch.
- Tap the (i) button and choose Unpair Apple Watch.
- Confirm and enter your Apple ID password if prompted.
- Restart both devices, then re-pair them.
- Test the call function afterward.
3. Disable Wi-Fi Calling and Handoff
Conflicts with Wi-Fi Calling or Handoff features may cause call issues. Temporarily disable them:
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and turn it off.
- Disable Calls on Other Devices in Phone settings.
- Navigate to Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff and disable Handoff.
On Apple Watch:
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to My Watch > General and disable Handoff.
- Restart both devices and check call functionality.
- Re-enable these settings if the issue is resolved.
4. Unlock iPhone Before Making Calls
A known iOS/watchOS bug may prevent calls when the iPhone is locked. Try this:
- Unlock your iPhone.
- Attempt a call from the Apple Watch.
- Lock the iPhone and repeat the test to check for improvements.
5. Enable “Unlock Apple Watch with iPhone”
This setting may help resolve call issues:
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to Passcode and enable Unlock with iPhone.
- Restart both devices.
- After restarting, unlock the Apple Watch using the iPhone.
- Test a direct call (not from contacts) to verify the fix.
6. Disable Bluetooth on Apple Watch
Forcing the watch to use Wi-Fi may help:
- Restart both devices.
- On Apple Watch, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn it off.
- If already off, toggle it on and off again.
- Test the call function.
7. Disable Wi-Fi on Apple Watch and iPhone
Network conflicts may cause call failures:
- Turn off your modem and unplug it for 5 minutes.
- Power it back on.
- Restart both Apple Watch and iPhone.
- On Apple Watch, swipe up for Control Center and disable Wi-Fi.
- If already off, enable it and reconnect both devices to the same Wi-Fi.
- Test calling again.
8. Update Both Devices
Software bugs may be fixed in the latest updates:
- On both devices, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install any available updates while connected to Wi-Fi.
- Test the call function afterward.
9. Reset Apple Watch to Factory Settings
If all else fails, reset the watch (back up data first):
- Unpair Apple Watch from iPhone.
- On Apple Watch, go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings and confirm.
- Restart both devices and set up the Apple Watch as new.
If the issue persists, contact Apple Support for further assistance.