Controlling whether your number appears when you call someone is a simple but powerful feature. On the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G, you can choose to show your caller ID for transparency or hide it when privacy matters. This guide explains step-by-step how to manage caller ID settings, the differences between showing and hiding, and why carriers sometimes limit these features.
Why Control Your Caller ID?
Caller ID isn’t just a convenience—it’s tied to how people perceive and respond to calls. Showing your number helps in professional or business contexts, while hiding it can protect your privacy in sensitive situations.
Communication researchers at Stanford University have found that visibility of caller identity significantly shapes whether recipients answer unknown calls. Their studies on human-computer interaction highlight that users feel safer and more in control when they can adjust privacy settings like caller ID.
Show Caller ID on Samsung Galaxy A36 5G
If you want your number to appear whenever you call, follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app on your Galaxy A36 5G.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Scroll to Supplementary services (sometimes listed as Additional settings).
- Tap Caller ID.
- Choose Show number.
Once enabled, your number will be displayed to the recipient for all outgoing calls unless the contact has blocked unknown or private numbers.
Hide Caller ID on Samsung Galaxy A36 5G
If you prefer to keep your number private, you can easily hide it:
- Go to the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Settings.
- Select Supplementary services.
- Tap Caller ID.
- Choose Hide number.
Per-Call Method (Optional)
If you only want to hide your number for one call, dial a special prefix code before the number. On many carriers, entering #31# followed by the phone number will block caller ID for that call.
Example: #31#1234567890
Note: This method depends on your carrier. Some networks may use different prefixes or not support them at all.
Carrier and Regional Limitations
Caller ID features are not always entirely controlled by your phone. In some countries, the network operator decides whether you can hide or show your number. For example:
- Emergency services: Caller ID is always transmitted, even if you hide it.
- Prepaid vs. postpaid plans: Some carriers allow caller ID control only on specific plans.
- International calls: When calling across borders, your number may still be visible depending on regional laws and agreements.
Telecommunications research from the University of Cambridge has shown that regulatory environments often dictate how caller ID works, especially in cross-border networks.
Troubleshooting Caller ID Issues
Sometimes the Caller ID option appears grayed out or does not work as expected. Try these solutions:
- Restart your phone — many network settings refresh after a reboot.
- Update carrier settings — insert the SIM, wait for updates, or contact your provider.
- Clear cache of the Phone app — go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Storage > Clear cache.
- Check for third-party blockers — apps like call managers or VoIP dialers can override system settings.
If nothing works, contact your mobile operator, since caller ID control may be restricted on their side.
Best Practices and Privacy Considerations
While hiding caller ID can protect your privacy, overusing it may cause your calls to be ignored. People often reject calls from “Private” or “Unknown” numbers. Use hiding selectively—for example, when calling businesses, unknown sellers, or for personal safety.
For important or professional calls, it’s best to keep your number visible. This fosters trust and ensures the recipient knows who is calling.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G makes it simple to manage caller ID visibility. Whether you want to show your number for clarity or hide it for privacy, the process takes just a few taps in the Phone app. Remember that carriers may limit this feature, and emergency services will always see your number. Adjust caller ID wisely to balance privacy, safety, and trust in every call you make.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I hide my number for just one call?
Yes, by using a prefix code such as #31# before dialing. This only works if your carrier supports it.
Does hiding caller ID block spam calls?
No. Caller ID control affects your outgoing calls only. To reduce spam, enable spam filters or use carrier-provided blocking services.
Will emergency services see my number if I hide it?
Yes. Caller ID blocking does not apply to emergency numbers (e.g., 911, 112).
Why is my Caller ID option disabled?
It may be restricted by your carrier. Update your SIM settings or contact your network provider.
