The Samsung Galaxy A51, released in December 2019, has been a popular choice among mid-range smartphones due to its blend of stylish design, robust features, and affordability. Despite its many strengths, some users have reported an issue where the Galaxy A51 cannot make calls. This problem can be incredibly frustrating, as the primary function of a phone is to make and receive calls. In this detailed review, we will explore the potential causes of this issue, provide troubleshooting steps, and compare the Galaxy A51 with other smartphones in its class.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Samsung Galaxy A51
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung Galaxy A51 boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. The Infinity-O display design provides a nearly bezel-less look, with a small punch-hole for the front camera. The back of the device is made of plastic, which Samsung refers to as “Glasstic,” giving it a glossy finish that resembles glass.
The phone is available in a variety of colors, including Prism Crush Black, Prism Crush White, Prism Crush Blue, and Prism Crush Pink, catering to a wide range of aesthetic preferences. Despite its plastic build, the Galaxy A51 feels solid and well-constructed, with a weight of 172 grams that strikes a good balance between being lightweight and substantial.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Galaxy A51 is powered by the Exynos 9611 chipset, an octa-core processor with four Cortex-A73 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.7 GHz. The device comes with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM, depending on the variant, and offers 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card up to 512GB.
The performance of the Galaxy A51 is adequate for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, social media, and media consumption. It handles multitasking reasonably well, although it may struggle with more intensive applications and high-end gaming due to its mid-range chipset.
Camera System
The Galaxy A51 features a versatile quad-camera setup on the back, consisting of:
- A 48MP main sensor with an f/2.0 aperture.
- A 12MP ultra-wide sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and a 123-degree field of view.
- A 5MP macro sensor with an f/2.4 aperture for close-up shots.
- A 5MP depth sensor with an f/2.2 aperture for better portrait shots.
The camera system delivers good performance in well-lit conditions, capturing detailed and vibrant images. The ultra-wide lens is particularly useful for landscape photography and group shots, while the macro lens allows for detailed close-ups. The depth sensor enhances portrait mode by providing better background blur.
On the front, the Galaxy A51 has a 32MP selfie camera with an f/2.2 aperture, capable of capturing high-resolution self-portraits and supporting features like Live Focus for bokeh effects.
Software
The Galaxy A51 runs on Samsung’s One UI 2.0, based on Android 10 out of the box, with updates available to newer versions of One UI and Android. One UI is known for its user-friendly interface and a host of customization options. It includes features like Dark Mode, Digital Wellbeing, and a variety of Samsung apps that enhance the overall user experience.
Battery Life
The device is equipped with a 4,000mAh battery, which provides decent battery life, lasting a full day of moderate usage. It supports 15W fast charging, which can quickly recharge the battery when needed. However, despite these positive aspects, the inability to make calls can overshadow these features for affected users.
Potential Causes of Call Issues on the Galaxy A51
The inability to make calls on the Galaxy A51 can stem from a variety of sources, including software glitches, network problems, hardware issues, and user settings. Here are some of the common causes:
1. Network Issues
- Poor Signal Strength: If you are in an area with poor network coverage, your phone may struggle to make calls. This can be due to physical obstructions, network congestion, or simply being too far from a cell tower.
- Carrier Outage: Sometimes, the issue can be on the carrier’s end. Network outages or maintenance work can temporarily disrupt service.
- SIM Card Issues: A faulty or improperly inserted SIM card can cause problems with making calls. SIM card damage or misalignment can disrupt network connectivity.
2. Software Problems
- Software Glitches: Temporary software issues or bugs can prevent the phone from making calls. These can often be resolved with a simple restart or software update.
- Outdated Software: Running an outdated version of the operating system or firmware can lead to compatibility issues with network services.
- Third-Party Apps: Some third-party apps can interfere with the phone’s ability to make calls, particularly apps related to communication or network management.
3. Hardware Issues
- Microphone Problems: If the microphone is not working correctly, the person on the other end of the call might not hear you, leading to call failures.
- Antenna Damage: Damage to the phone’s internal antenna can affect signal reception and transmission, making it difficult to make or receive calls.
4. User Settings
- Airplane Mode: If Airplane Mode is enabled, all wireless communications, including phone calls, are disabled.
- Do Not Disturb Mode: Although primarily designed to mute notifications, some settings within Do Not Disturb mode can affect call functionality.
- Call Barring: Accidental activation of call barring settings can prevent outgoing calls.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you’re experiencing issues with making calls on your Samsung Galaxy A51, follow these troubleshooting steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the problem.
1. Check Network Signal and Carrier Service
- Signal Strength: Ensure you have sufficient network signal. Check the signal bars on your phone’s status bar. If the signal is weak, try moving to a different location with better coverage.
- Carrier Status: Contact your carrier to check if there are any known outages or maintenance work in your area. You can also visit their website or social media pages for updates.
2. Inspect the SIM Card
- Reinsert the SIM Card: Turn off your phone, remove the SIM card, and reinsert it properly. Ensure the SIM card is not damaged or dirty.
- Test with Another SIM Card: If possible, try using a different SIM card to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if the problem is with the SIM card or the phone itself.
3. Restart Your Phone
- Soft Reset: Restarting your phone can resolve many temporary software issues. Press and hold the power button, then select “Restart” from the menu.
4. Update Software
- Check for Updates: Ensure your phone is running the latest software. Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install to check for and install any available updates.
5. Reset Network Settings
- Network Reset: Resetting network settings can resolve connectivity issues. Go to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will reset Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data settings but will not delete any personal data.
6. Check for Third-Party App Interference
- Safe Mode: Boot your phone into Safe Mode to see if a third-party app is causing the issue. Press and hold the power button, then tap and hold “Power Off” until the Safe Mode prompt appears. Select “Safe Mode.” If the phone can make calls in Safe Mode, a third-party app is likely causing the problem. Uninstall recently installed apps to identify the culprit.
7. Verify Call Settings
- Airplane Mode: Ensure Airplane Mode is turned off. Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the Quick Settings panel and check the Airplane Mode icon.
- Do Not Disturb: Check if Do Not Disturb mode is enabled. Go to Settings > Notifications > Do Not Disturb and adjust the settings as needed.
- Call Barring: Ensure call barring settings are not activated. Go to the Phone app > More options (three dots) > Settings > Supplementary services > Call barring.
8. Factory Reset
- Backup Data: If none of the above steps work, consider performing a factory reset as a last resort. This will erase all data on your phone, so ensure you back up important data first.
- Factory Reset: Go to Settings > General Management > Reset > Factory Data Reset. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.
Comparison with Competitors
To provide a broader perspective, let’s compare the Samsung Galaxy A51 with other mid-range smartphones, focusing on their call performance and reliability.
Google Pixel 4a
The Google Pixel 4a is known for its clean Android experience and excellent camera performance. In terms of call reliability, the Pixel 4a generally performs well, with fewer reported issues related to call functionality compared to the Galaxy A51. Google’s integration of hardware and software ensures a smooth and reliable user experience, making it a strong competitor in the mid-range segment.
OnePlus Nord
The OnePlus Nord is another popular mid-range option that offers a smooth user experience and robust performance. While the Nord has also received positive reviews for its overall performance, it has a few reported issues with call quality and connectivity. However, these are less common and often addressed through software updates.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is a strong contender in the mid-range market, known for its impressive specs and value for money. The device features a Snapdragon 732G processor, a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, and a versatile quad-camera setup. In terms of call functionality, the Redmi Note 10 Pro generally performs reliably. However, like any device, it is not completely free from issues. Some users have reported occasional call drops and connectivity problems, though these are relatively rare and often resolved through software updates and network adjustments.
Motorola Moto G Power (2021)
The Motorola Moto G Power (2021) is another competitor known for its massive battery life and solid performance for everyday tasks. The Moto G Power tends to have fewer issues with call connectivity compared to the Galaxy A51, thanks in part to its simple and clean software experience. Motorola has a good track record with call reliability, making this device a worthy alternative for those seeking stable call performance in a mid-range smartphone.
Realme 7 Pro
The Realme 7 Pro is a device that offers great value with its Snapdragon 720G processor, 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, and fast 65W charging. Call performance on the Realme 7 Pro is generally solid, with fewer reported issues compared to the Galaxy A51. Realme has focused on providing a well-rounded experience, including reliable network and call performance, which makes it a competitive option in this segment.
User Reviews and Feedback
Positive Reviews
Despite the call issues reported by some users, many others have praised the Galaxy A51 for its design, display quality, and overall performance. Here are some common positive points highlighted by users:
- Display: The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display is highly regarded for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and overall clarity. Users enjoy the immersive viewing experience, whether for media consumption or general use.
- Design: The sleek and modern design, combined with the attractive color options, has received positive feedback. The lightweight build and comfortable grip are also appreciated.
- Camera Performance: The quad-camera setup provides versatility and good quality photos in well-lit conditions. Users have praised the main camera, ultra-wide lens, and macro capabilities.
Negative Reviews
On the other hand, the inability to make calls has been a significant issue for a portion of Galaxy A51 users. Here are some common negative points related to this problem:
- Call Drops: Some users have reported frequent call drops, which can be frustrating during important conversations.
- No Signal: There are instances where the phone shows no signal or fluctuates between having and losing network connectivity, making it difficult to make calls consistently.
- Poor Microphone Quality: A few users have mentioned that their call recipients cannot hear them clearly, pointing to potential microphone issues.
Potential Solutions from Samsung
Samsung has been known to provide support and solutions for various issues faced by its customers. Here are some potential steps Samsung could take to address the call issues on the Galaxy A51:
1. Software Updates
Samsung frequently releases software updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security. Ensuring that users have the latest software updates can resolve many issues related to call connectivity. It is crucial for Samsung to continue monitoring user feedback and releasing timely updates to address any reported problems.
2. Customer Support and Service Centers
For persistent issues, Samsung’s customer support and service centers can provide more personalized assistance. Users experiencing call problems can reach out to Samsung’s support team for troubleshooting help. If the issue persists, visiting a Samsung service center for a professional diagnosis and repair may be necessary.
3. Improved Quality Control
Samsung can also work on improving its quality control processes to identify and mitigate potential hardware issues before devices reach consumers. This includes rigorous testing of network and call functionalities to ensure that devices perform reliably in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy A51 is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that offers a good balance of design, performance, and features. However, the inability to make calls can be a significant drawback for affected users. By understanding the potential causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this review, users can address many common issues and improve their call experience.
While the Galaxy A51 has its strengths, such as a vibrant display, solid camera performance, and attractive design, call reliability is crucial for any smartphone. If you continue to experience issues despite troubleshooting, consider reaching out to Samsung support or exploring alternative devices in the same price range that offer more reliable call performance.
Ultimately, the choice of a smartphone should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of its features, performance, and reliability. The Galaxy A51 remains a popular choice for many users, but ensuring that it meets your specific needs, including reliable call functionality, is essential for a satisfying smartphone experience.