iOS 26 Callback Reminder: Never Forget to Return a Call

It’s common to miss an incoming call when you’re in a meeting, working out, or just not paying attention. But the real problem begins when you forget to follow up. With iOS 26, Apple introduces a thoughtful new feature called Callback Reminder in the Phone app. This small yet powerful addition helps you remember to return calls you may otherwise overlook.

Here’s everything you need to know about Callback Reminders in iOS 26 and how to use them.

What Is the Callback Reminder Feature, and How Does It Work?

Introduced in iOS 26, Callback Reminders let you set a reminder to return missed calls directly from the Phone app. When you create a reminder, it’s automatically linked to the caller’s contact details and appears in both the Reminders app and a new Reminders section inside the Phone app, making it easy to follow up later.

Like regular reminders, a Callback Reminder will notify you at your chosen time. When it appears, just tap to call the person back instantly.

How to Set a Callback Reminder for a Missed Call

Setting a Callback Reminder on your iPhone running iOS 26 (currently in beta) is quick and easy. Here’s how:

1. Open the Phone app and make sure you’re on the Calls tab.
2. In the Recents section, swipe right on a missed call.
3. Tap the blue clock icon (Reminders) that appears.
4. Now, choose one of the following:
   • Remind Me in 1 hour
   • Remind Me Tonight
   • Remind Me Tomorrow
   • Remind Me Later.
     

If you choose Remind Me in 1 Hour, Tonight, or Tomorrow, the missed call will automatically appear under the Reminders section in the Phone app. Choosing Remind Me Later opens a custom reminder interface where you can select a specific date and time.

The Callback Reminder also appears in the Reminders app, labeled with the contact’s name and number, along with any notes you may add.

How to Manage Callback Reminders

Every Callback Reminder appears in both the Phone and Reminders apps, and you can manage them from either place.

Via the Phone App

1. Open the Phone app and go to the Calls tab.
2. In the Reminders section, swipe left on a missed call.
3. Tap the trash bin icon to delete the reminder.
4. Or tap the blue clock icon to either edit or mark it as complete.
5. Choosing Edit will redirect you to the Reminders app for further customization.
6. 

Using the Reminders app

1. Open the Reminders app and tap on a Callback Reminder.
2. Now, you can make the following changes:
   • Edit the title or note
   • Change the date and time
   • Add a location-based alert (e.g., “Remind me when I get home”)
   • Move it to a different list
3. Once done, tap the blue right tick icon at the top right corner to save changes.

To mark it as complete, tap the checkbox next to the reminder.

To delete it, swipe left on the reminder and tap Delete.

Bonus: Other Reminders Upgrades in iOS 26

Besides Callback Reminders, iOS 26 introduces several enhancements to the Reminders app:

• Translucent design with the new Liquid Glass UI.
• Quick Add widgets in Control Center and on the Lock Screen.
• AI-powered Smart Lists (available with Apple Intelligence).
• Time Zone Locking to keep reminders accurate while traveling.

Never Miss an Important Call Again…

The Callback Reminder in iOS 26 is a thoughtful addition to the Phone and Reminders apps. While it might seem like a minor feature at first, it’s a game-changer for anyone who frequently promises, “I’ll call them back,” and forgets.

So, is this feature a must-have or just a nice-to-have? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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