My phone watch can't make calls, how to fix?

by Honda William July 10, 2026

Welcome to the Blackview store, which offers rugged GPS smartwatch, kids watch with GPS, smartwatch for seniors at $49, and more. Hope this guide helps.

A smartwatch is designed to keep you connected without constantly reaching for your smartphone. Whether you're exercising, driving, attending meetings, or simply enjoying a hands-free lifestyle, making and receiving calls directly from your watch is one of its most valuable features. When call functionality suddenly stops working, however, it can quickly become frustrating and inconvenient.

Call issues can occur for many reasons, including Bluetooth connection problems, incorrect permissions, poor network coverage, software glitches, or SIM-related issues on LTE-enabled smartwatches. Fortunately, most problems can be resolved without professional repair. This guide walks you through the most effective troubleshooting steps to restore calling functionality on your phone watch.

Why Your Phone Watch Can't Make Calls

Before attempting repairs, it's helpful to understand the possible causes. Common reasons include:

Bluetooth is disconnected or unstable.
The smartwatch is not properly paired with the phone.
Calling permissions are disabled.
The watch is not selected as the audio device during calls.
Wi-Fi, mobile network, or eSIM/SIM connectivity has failed.
Airplane Mode or Do Not Disturb Mode is enabled.
Software bugs or outdated firmware are causing compatibility issues.
The phone or watch needs a restart.

How to Fix a Smartwatch That Can't Make Calls

Follow these steps in order until the issue is resolved.

1. Check Bluetooth Connection

Turn Bluetooth off and back on.
Confirm the watch is connected to your smartphone.
Open the companion app to verify the connection status.
Move the devices closer together to avoid signal interruption.

2. Restart Both Devices

Power off your smartwatch.
Restart your smartphone.
Turn the smartwatch back on.
Test calling again after both devices reconnect.

3. Verify Call Permissions

Open your phone's Settings.
Navigate to Bluetooth or Connected Devices.
Select your smartwatch.
Make sure Phone Calls or Call Audio is enabled.
Check the companion app for additional permission settings.

4. Confirm the Watch Supports Calling

Verify whether your smartwatch includes Bluetooth calling or LTE calling.
Some fitness watches display call notifications but cannot make or receive calls directly.
Check your device specifications if you're unsure.

5. Check Mobile Network (LTE Watches)

If your smartwatch has independent cellular connectivity:

Confirm the SIM or eSIM is activated.
Verify your mobile plan supports smartwatch calling.
Check signal strength.
Disable Airplane Mode if enabled.
Contact your carrier if activation appears incomplete.

6. Test Call Audio Settings

Make a phone call.
Select the audio output option.
Choose your smartwatch as the active call device.
Increase the watch speaker volume if necessary.

7. Update Software

Outdated software often causes compatibility issues.

Update your smartphone operating system.
Update the smartwatch firmware.
Update the companion app from the app store.
Restart both devices after installation.

8. Reset Bluetooth Pairing

If the connection remains unstable:

Remove the smartwatch from Bluetooth settings.
Forget the paired device.
Pair the watch again from the beginning.
Re-enable all requested permissions.

9. Reset Network Settings

Network configuration problems may interfere with calling.

Reset network settings on your smartphone.
Reconnect Wi-Fi and Bluetooth afterward.
Pair the smartwatch again if required.

10. Factory Reset the Smartwatch

If nothing else works:

Back up important data.
Open Settings on the watch.
Select Factory Reset.
Set up the watch as a new device.
Test call functionality before restoring additional apps.

Additional Tips

To prevent future calling issues:

Keep Bluetooth enabled.
Install software updates regularly.
Avoid force-closing the companion app.
Maintain sufficient battery on both devices.
Use the original companion application recommended by the manufacturer.
Ensure permissions remain enabled after major system updates.

When to Contact Support

If your smartwatch still cannot make calls after completing all troubleshooting steps, the problem may involve hardware or carrier services.

Contact the manufacturer's support team if:

The microphone or speaker no longer works.
Bluetooth disconnects repeatedly.
The watch cannot detect the SIM or eSIM.
Calls fail despite a stable network connection.
The issue began immediately after physical damage or water exposure.

Most smartwatch calling problems are caused by connection settings, software conflicts, or permission errors rather than hardware failure. By systematically checking Bluetooth connectivity, network status, permissions, software updates, and pairing settings, you can often restore calling functionality within just a few minutes.

If the issue persists after completing every step, a factory reset or assistance from your device manufacturer or mobile carrier may be necessary. Performing regular software updates and maintaining proper connectivity settings will help ensure your smartwatch continues delivering reliable hands-free communication whenever you need it.

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