How to Dial Internationally on Your iPhone

Staying connected across borders has never been easier, especially with the convenience of your iPhone. Whether you're checking in with family, coordinating business meetings, or catching up with friends overseas, dialing internationally is straightforward once you know the basics. This guide walks you through the steps to make international calls seamlessly and effortlessly.

A Quick Answer to International Dialing on iPhone

To make an international call on your iPhone, start by entering the "+" symbol on your dial pad, followed by the country code of your recipient's location, their area code (if applicable), and the local phone number. That’s it! You're ready to stay connected without a hitch.

Now, let's explore each step in detail.

How to Dial Internationally on Your iPhone

Step 1 Use the Plus Symbol for International Dialing

iPhones make it super simple to dial internationally by automating the “IDD” (International Direct Dialing) code. Instead of entering “00,” just tap and hold the “0” key until the "+" symbol appears. This automatically replaces country-specific exit codes.

Step 2 Enter the Country Code

Every country has a unique dialing prefix, known as a country code. For example:

  • United States and Canada = +1
  • United Kingdom = +44
  • South Africa = +27

You can search online for the country code of your destination or review the complete list of country codes.

Step 3 Add the Area Code (if needed)

Depending on the country, area codes may be required for landline numbers. For example:

  • A call to New York City in the US would require "+1 212"
  • A call to Cape Town in South Africa would require "+27 21"

For mobile numbers, this step is often unnecessary.

Step 4 Dial the Local Number

Finally, input the local number of the person or business you're trying to reach. Be sure to exclude any leading "0" from the number, as the country code replaces it.

Example of a Completed International Dial 

Suppose you’re calling a landline in London, UK, from your iPhone. You would dial:

+44 20 [Local Number]

For a mobile phone in Johannesburg, South Africa, it would look like this:

+27 [Mobile Number]

Step 5 Make the Call and Save It

Hit the call button and wait for the connection! Save the completed international number to your contacts for fast access in the future.

Key Tips for International Calling on iPhone

  • Enable International Features: Before traveling or attempting to make calls, confirm that your carrier plan includes international calling. Contact your service provider for details.
  • Check Data or Roaming Charges: Know your plan's rates for international calls to avoid unexpected charges. You can download Talk360, which will help you avoid roaming charges, as they are great to call phone number on another country as if you were there.
  • Wi-Fi Calling: Many carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, offer free international Wi-Fi calling from your iPhone (depending on the plan). Make sure this feature is enabled in your iPhone's settings.

Popular iPhone Accessories That Improve Call Quality

Investing in a few handy gadgets can enhance your international calling experience:

  • Noise-canceling headphones for clearer communication in noisy surroundings.
  • Power banks to keep your phone charged during long international conversations.
  • Strong case protection to safeguard your phone when traveling.

FAQs About International Calling on iPhone

What happens if I forget the country code? 

No worries! Simply look it up online or use apps like Talk360, which automatically format numbers for international dialing.

Why does my call not go through? 

Ensure that you’ve entered the proper format, including the "+" sign, country code, area code, and local number. Also, double-check your carrier plan to confirm international calling is enabled.

Can I make free international calls? 

Some apps, such as FaceTime or WhatsApp, allow free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi. However, they require both parties to have the app and an internet connection. Alternatively, consider services like Talk360 for low-cost international calls without relying on Wi-Fi.

How do I activate Wi-Fi calling on my iPhone? 

Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and toggle the feature on. Follow your carrier’s prompts for setup.

Are there apps that make dialing internationally easier? 

Yes! Apps like Talk360, Google Voice, and others simplify international dialing by handling the country code, exit code, and local number formatting for you.

Stay Connected Anywhere, Anytime

With these simple steps, dialing internationally on your iPhone is hassle-free. Whether reaching loved ones overseas or managing global business contacts, staying connected has never been more important. Want to make affordable international calls without worrying about Wi-Fi? Download now Talk360 and stay connected to home. 

Start calling home today

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