The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are the latest in Google’s flagship smartphone lineup, boasting advanced AI features, 5G support, and a clean Android experience. However, some users have reported a frustrating issue: phone calls dropping after just a few seconds—sometimes even before the conversation properly starts. This can happen with both incoming and outgoing calls and may occur randomly or consistently in certain locations or with certain carriers.
If you’re facing this issue, you’re not alone. This article explores the most common causes, shares effective solutions, and provides a clear path to resolution.
Common Symptoms
Users experiencing this issue typically report:
- Outgoing or incoming calls dropping within 5–10 seconds
- Call screen shows “call ended” without warning
- Calls work fine on other phones with the same SIM
- Call drops occur only on mobile data or 5G, not on Wi-Fi calling
- Voice call issues appear after a recent software update
These drops affect not only standard calls but sometimes even VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling functionality.
Why Calls Drop on Pixel 7 or 7 Pro
Carrier-Specific Network Incompatibility
The Pixel 7 lineup supports a wide range of bands for 4G LTE and 5G, but in some cases, carrier-specific configurations or missing firmware updates can cause instability.
Examples:
- VoLTE or 5G calls not properly supported on that carrier’s Pixel profile
- Issues after porting a number from one carrier to another
- Carrier settings not updated to match Pixel 7 firmware
eSIM or SIM Activation Issues
Many users use eSIM on Pixel phones, and some reports indicate call drops occur after:
- Switching from physical SIM to eSIM
- Dual SIM mode (e.g., eSIM + physical SIM)
- Improper activation by the carrier
If eSIM provisioning is incomplete or dual SIM mode is unstable, calls may drop shortly after connecting.
VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling Misconfiguration
If your Pixel 7 is attempting to use VoLTE (Voice over LTE) or Wi-Fi Calling, but the carrier or device isn’t properly configured, the phone may initiate the call but fail to maintain it.
This could result in:
- Call drops within seconds
- Call transfer failures between LTE and Wi-Fi
- VoIP fallback glitches
Software Bugs or Android Updates
Android 13 and early versions of Android 14 have introduced temporary call-handling bugs that affect:
- Phone dialer behavior
- Network switching between 5G/4G/Wi-Fi
- In-call audio or connection stability
These issues often require software or firmware patches and may not be user-fixable without updates.
Battery Optimization or Background Restrictions
Aggressive background optimization settings can interrupt the Phone app or carrier services, especially on incoming calls.
If these processes are restricted:
- The call may start but close quickly
- The phone may appear to hang up automatically
- Call-related services may be delayed in resuming from sleep
Corrupt System Cache or App Conflict
Old cache data or conflicting apps can interfere with network functions.
This may include:
- Call blocking apps
- VPNs or firewalls
- Dialer mods or automation apps (like Tasker)
How to Fix Call Dropping Issues on Pixel 7 / 7 Pro
Restart the Phone
Start with a full restart to clear temporary software conflicts.
- Hold Power + Volume Up > Tap Restart
Test with an outgoing and incoming call immediately after boot.
Check and Update Carrier Settings
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs
- Tap your carrier > Scroll to Access Point Names (APN)
- Ensure APN and VoLTE settings are correct for your carrier
- Contact your carrier for a carrier profile update if needed
Some updates are pushed silently but may require reactivation.
Disable and Re-enable VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > [Your SIM]
- Toggle VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling off, wait 30 seconds, then back on
This re-registers your device for those features and may correct network handover issues.
Switch Network Type Temporarily
Force the phone to use only 4G or 3G to test:
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Preferred network type
- Switch to LTE only or 3G only, then place a call
If the issue disappears, the problem may be with 5G handoff or modem instability.
Remove and Reinsert the SIM or Re-Provision eSIM
- For physical SIM: power off the phone, remove the SIM, wait 30 seconds, reinsert
- For eSIM: remove the profile from Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, then contact your carrier to re-provision
Ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi when re-adding the eSIM.
Update System Software
Google regularly addresses call stability through monthly patches.
- Go to Settings > System > System update
- Install any available updates
- Also check Google Play system update under Security
Boot into Safe Mode
To rule out third-party app conflicts:
- Press and hold Power
- Tap and hold Power off > Tap OK to reboot into Safe Mode
Try placing a call. If it doesn’t drop, uninstall apps related to calls, automation, or network management.
Reset Network Settings
This step resets all Wi-Fi, mobile, and Bluetooth settings.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth
Reconfigure Wi-Fi and APN settings after the reset.
Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If all else fails:
- Back up your data
- Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data
- Set up the phone without restoring third-party apps immediately
When to Contact Support
If calls still drop:
- On all networks (Wi-Fi, 5G, LTE)
- After trying both eSIM and physical SIM
- Even in Safe Mode and after a factory reset
…it’s time to escalate the issue:
- Contact Google Pixel Support
- Visit a carrier store to test a different SIM
- Check if you’re eligible for a device replacement under warranty
Conclusion
Call drop issues on the Pixel 7 or 7 Pro—especially calls that end within a few seconds—can stem from a variety of causes, including:
- Carrier profile or SIM activation problems
- VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling misconfigurations
- Software bugs introduced in recent Android updates
- Conflicting apps or modem firmware issues
Fortunately, most issues can be resolved through software updates, resetting network configurations, toggling connectivity settings, or removing interfering apps. If nothing works, hardware or SIM replacement may be necessary.
By following these steps, you can restore reliable calling on your Pixel and enjoy the communication experience it’s designed to offer.
