Answer The incoming-call control depends on whether the iPhone is locked: tap Answer when it is unlocked, or drag the slider when it is locked. Apple does not provide a setting to change that behaviour into one permanent button style.
Guide steps 7 steps 1 Check whether the iPhone is locked2 Answer on an unlocked iPhone3 Answer on a locked iPhone4 Silence the ring5 Decline a call6 Reply instead7 Use a supported alternativeIf it still does not work 1 Check whether the iPhone is locked Look at the incoming-call screen. iPhone changes the available control based on whether the phone is locked.
2 Answer on an unlocked iPhone Tap the Answer Call button to accept the call when the iPhone is unlocked.
3 Answer on a locked iPhone Drag the slider to answer when the iPhone is locked.
4 Silence the ring Press the side button or either volume button once to silence an incoming call without answering it.
5 Decline a call Press the side button twice quickly, tap Decline Call when it appears, or swipe up on the call banner to send the call to voicemail where available.
6 Reply instead Tap Message and choose a reply when you need to respond without taking the call.
7 Use a supported alternative If you need hands-free control, set up Siri to announce calls and answer or decline with your voice when that feature is available.
If it does not work If you see a slider instead of a decline button, that is the normal locked-iPhone call interface, not a setting failure. In countries or regions without voicemail, a declined call can disconnect rather than going to voicemail. ⓘ Sources and verificationChecked against official documentation on 5 August 2026 . Scope: iPhone & iPad.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.
