What is what does it mean when you call someone and it doesn't ring at all?

When you call someone and the phone doesn't ring at all, it can indicate several possibilities:

• The phone is turned off: This is the most straightforward reason. If the recipient's device is powered down, it won't register incoming calls.

• The phone is in "Do Not Disturb" mode: Modern smartphones have a "Do Not Disturb" (DND) mode that silences all notifications and calls. While some DND settings allow calls from specific contacts or repeat callers to get through, others block everything completely. Learn more about Do Not Disturb Mode.

• The caller is blocked: If the recipient has blocked your number, your calls will typically go straight to voicemail (if voicemail is set up) or simply terminate without ringing. You won't receive a ringing sound. Get more information about Blocked Numbers.

• Network issues: Temporary network problems on either your end or the recipient's end can prevent calls from going through. This could be due to poor signal strength, network congestion, or a service outage. See the possible Network Issues.

• Call forwarding is enabled: The recipient may have call forwarding set up to send all incoming calls to another number or to voicemail. In this case, their phone won't ring, and your call will be redirected.

• Airplane mode is on: When a phone is in Airplane mode, all wireless communication is disabled, including cellular calls. Your calls will not ring through. More details about Airplane Mode.

• A problem with the phone: Although rare, there could be something wrong with the recipient's phone so that incoming calls will not ring.

The most likely explanation is often the phone being turned off or in Do Not Disturb mode. However, blocking is also a common reason, especially if this has been happening consistently. Network issues are usually temporary.