How to Make a Three-Way Call on an iPhone? Explained

To make a three-way call on an iPhone, a user can dial a call using the Phone application. It comprises functionalities through which one can add another user. Thus, 3 individuals can simultaneously connect with each other. Three-way calling on iPhones is a type of mini-conference over the phone that engages 3 people to exchange information. While connecting, they can manage communication by adding a new caller or dropping an existing one. Thus, on iOS devices, it is a communication solution for small groups that is simple to initiate and easy to manage.

What is a Three-Way Call?

A three-way call is a phone-based feature that enables speaking with 2 individuals simultaneously. Thus, through a mobile phone, 3 people can connect at the same time.

In other words, three-way calling is similar to a mini-conference call. It allows including an additional person to an ongoing phone call.

Can You Make a Three-Way Call on an iPhone?

One can make 3-way calls on an iPhone as well as other iOS devices. However, this is also dependent on the carrier of a particular device. Assuming that the carrier is supportive of three-way calling on the iPhone, one can successfully initiate it.

Managing 3-Way Calling on iPhones

On iOS devices like iPhones, users can make 3-way calls as well as manage them in multiple ways. During the mini-conference call, they can engage in a private conversation with a specific user. Also, it is possible to include an incoming caller in the call. Besides, a user can be dropped from the conversation if required.

How to Start Three-Way Calling on an iPhone?

In order to initiate three-way calling on an iPhone, one should first make a phone call. After the second call connects, the caller can add one more individual to it. Following this, the caller can merge both calls. This will simply initiate 3-way calling and enable all individuals to communicate with each other.

Go through the following steps to further understand this process.

• To start 3-way calling on an iPhone, run the “Phone” application.

• Make a call to an individual.

• During the ongoing phone call, press the “Add Call” button.

• Now, choose the other individual to connect with.

• Then dial a call to this person.

• Once he/she answers the call, tap on the “Merge Calls” option.

• After the communication is over, hit the “End Call” button in red to disconnect it.

How to Manage 3-Way Calling on Your iPhone?

Through simple controls on an iPhone, a user can manage 3-way calling. Using buttons like Private, More Info, and Hold Call, one can enable incoming callers to join the conversation. Besides, these controls are useful in starting a private conversation or dropping particular users from the mini-conference call.

Enabling Incoming Callers to Join Three-Way Calls

During three-way calling on an iPhone, one can receive a call from another user. To answer the call, amidst the ongoing conversation, use the Merge Calls button. It will help in instantly adding the caller to the mini-conference on the call.

• While a 3-way call is in process on an iPhone and a new user rings, press “Hold Call + Answer”.

• Hit the “Merge Calls” button.

In a split second, the new user will be part of the three-way call on the iOS device.

Note: This step-by-step process is useful for adding more incoming callers to the mini-conference.

Start a Private Conversation during Mini-Conference

When a mini-conference is going on, iPhone users can privately manage conversations with specific callers. The Private button in the call menu is of use for the same.

• During a three-way call on an iPhone, initiate a private conversation via “More Info”.

• After pressing this button, select “Private” next to a caller or user.

• Now, engage in a private discussion while the mini-conference is in process.

• After conversing privately, press “Merge Calls” to resume the conference call.

Note: Depending on the iOS version, buttons may vary. Or, relevant icons may represent them.

Drop Users amidst Three-Way Calls on iPhones

While initiating three-way calling on iPhones, one may require dropping a user. At times, a caller may accidentally add an incorrect user. Or, while the mini-conference is in process, a particular caller’s input may no longer be needed. During these instances, one can manage 3-way calling from the call menu on the device.

• On an iPhone, When a 3-way call is in process, access tap on “More Info”.

• On the next screen, one will see all the participants in the conversation.

• Next to the name of the participant to drop, press “End”.

• Now, continue or manage the conversation with the other user on the call.

Limitations to Three-Way Calling on iPhones

There are 3 main limitations to three-way calls on iPhones. Users may face challenges in extending calls, utilizing all functionalities during conversations, and others. These are dependent on the device carrier, wireless communication technologies, as well as the iOS version.

GSM Requirement and Carrier Support to Extend Calls

At times, a user may need to extend three-way calling on an iPhone and convert it into a conference call. Particularly when managing business calls from the device, such a requirement may arise. However, one may require GSM for this purpose.

Note that with GSM, a user can add no more than 5 callers to the conversation. 
Besides, it is only when the carrier supports the functionality that the mini-conference call can be extended.

Limited Availability of Calling Aspects for Specific Users

As users engage in 3-way calls on their iPhones or iOS devices, they may find limits to certain aspects. Some functionalities may remain unavailable to utilize when a caller is using Wi-Fi calling or Voice over LTE (VoLTE).

Limitations by Device Carriers

In general, iOS devices support three-way calls. Restrictions by carriers can, however, limit some functionalities. Thus, during three-way calling on an iPhone, one may find it challenging to merge, disconnect, or add callers. 

Tip: Connect with the carrier to resolve issues while facing these restrictions during calls.

Best Alternative to Three-Way Calling on iPhones for Extensive Functionalities

Although three-way calling is beneficial for iPhone users, for wider functionalities, they can prefer virtual numbers. Interestingly, these numbers can extend functioning while engaging in mini-conference calls on the iOS device. Through these, users can manage them better and also improve overall communication experiences.

Top Functionalities of Virtual Phone Numbers

As an alternative to three-way calling on an iPhone, a virtual number enables adding multiple users. Thus, it helps convert a mini-conference into a teleconference involving numerous callers, even more than 5.

While this is among the main reasons why you need a virtual number as an alternative to 3-way calling on iPhones, there are others as well.

• A virtual phone number can provide features such as call forwarding while managing conference calls.

• Toll-free virtual numbers make communication flexible by removing any geographical barriers.

• Besides, they are cost-effective, thereby reducing calling expenditures.

Endnote,

For small groups to communicate, three-way calling on iPhones is a useful solution. Through a simple menu and a set of options, one can start a mini-conference on the iOS device. While it is effective for information exchange, for extended functioning, virtual numbers can positively contribute to 3-way calling.