Many Android smartphone users are looking for a way to identify unknown callers to avoid spam and fraudulent calls. The built-in functions of the system do not always cope with this task effectively, especially if the number is not saved in contacts. The popular mapping application 2GIS offers a built-in module Caller IDthat helps recognize the caller even before you pick up the phone.
Activation of this This feature requires that system permissions be properly configured, as Android strictly controls app access to call logs. In this article, we will look in detail at how to enable caller ID on different versions of the operating system and device models. You will learn about the nuances of the database and how to solve typical problems with displaying information.
The principle of operation and advantages of the built-in Caller ID
Function Caller ID in the application 2GIS works on the basis of a huge database of organizations and users who themselves have added their contacts to the service. When you receive an incoming call, the system instantly checks the number with the local and global database. If a match is found, the company name or owner's name is displayed on the call screen, even if the number is not in your phone book.
This solution is especially relevant for smartphone owners who often encounter calls from couriers, delivery services or potential clients. Unlike third-party apps that require constant synchronization and loading of heavy databases, the module 2GIS is integrated directly into the application interface. This allows you to save device resources and avoid installing additional software that can slow down the system.
However, it is worth understanding that for the function to work correctly, a stable Internet connection is required at the time of the call, if the number is not in the device cache. The identifier works only with an active Internet connection or a pre-loaded offline city map. Without network access, the application will not be able to request information about an unknown number from clouds.
For maximum speed of the identifier, download the map of your region in the “Downloads” section inside the 2GIS application. This will allow you to identify numbers even with a weak network signal.
Step-by-step guide for activating the function
The process of enabling the identifier may vary slightly depending on the version of the application 2GIS and the shell of your smartphone. In most cases, configuration is done directly within the map service interface. You need to open the application and go to the profile or settings menu, which is usually indicated by a person or gear icon.
Find the section responsible for additional services or calls. In modern versions it is often called "Caller ID" or "Caller ID". Switch the slider to the active position. After this, the system will ask for confirmation to use the function, since this requires the processing of personal data.
The next critical step is to provide system permissions. Android will not allow an app to intercept incoming calls without the user's explicit consent. You will be prompted to go to your phone settings or accept a pop-up window asking for permissions to access your phone and call history.
☑️ Checking the activation of the caller ID
Setting up system permissions on Android
Even if you turned on the toggle switch inside the application 2GIS, the function will not work without the appropriate rights in the settings of Android itself. The operating system isolates applications from each other for security purposes, so access to calls must be granted manually. This is a standard procedure for any software that claims to be a determinant.
Go to the main Settings of your smartphone and select section Applications. Find the installed 2GIS in the list and click on it. Inside the application menu, select Permissions. Here you should see a list of access categories, such as Camera, Microphone, Memory and others.
You need to find the category Phone or Calls. Make sure its status is set to Allowed. If disabled, the detection function will not work. It is also recommended to check the permission to access Contactsso that the application can match the numbers with your address book for more accurate identification.
⚠️ Attention: On some Xiaomi and Huawei models with MIUI or EMUI shells, additional autorun settings may be required. Go to the battery settings and allow the application 2GIS to work in the background, otherwise the system may “kill” the detection process to save energy.
Features of operation on different versions of Android
The interface and logic of the caller ID can vary significantly depending on the version of the operating system. Starting with Android 9 (Pie) and above, Google has tightened its security policies regarding call log access. This means that on new devices the setup process may be more multi-step.
On devices running Android 10, 11 and later, a pop-up window may appear with the question: “Allow the 2GIS application to detect phone numbers?” The user must select the option "Allow always" or "Allow only when using the application." For the detector to work correctly, it is advisable to select the first option so that identification occurs even when the screen is locked.
Owners of Samsung smartphones with the One UI shell may notice that the system offers to make 2GIS the default call application. Do not agree to thisif you want to keep your native “dialer”. Caller ID can work as an add-on to the standard application, without replacing it completely. Replacing a standard application may lead to the loss of some functions of the native shell.
| Android version | Permission request type | Setting features |
|---|---|---|
| Android 8 (Oreo) | Standard request | One confirmation in the application is enough |
| Android 9 (Pie) | Extended access | Requires manual verification in the application menu |
| Android 10-13 | Strict control | Necessary allow background work and access to the phone |
| Android 14+ | Partial access | Ability to restrict access to only selected contacts |
What to do if the setting is reset after updating Android?
After major operating system updates (for example, moving from Android 12 to 13), permission settings are often reset to default values for security purposes. You need to go through the procedure for issuing rights again in the Applications menu, even if everything worked correctly before. This is normal system behavior and not an application error.
Solving common problems and errors
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where all the settings are made correctly, but the numbers are still not detected. The first reason may lie in the outdated version of the application itself 2GIS. Developers regularly update databases and module operation algorithms, so using an old version may lead to incorrect functionality.
The second common problem is a conflict with other applications. If another caller ID is already installed on your smartphone (for example, from Yandex or GetContact), they can block each other. Android allows only one application to have priority access to handle incoming calls. In this case, you need to disable unnecessary services in the settings.
It is also worth checking for updates for the component Android System WebView. This system module is responsible for displaying web content within applications and often affects the operation of pop-up windows and definer interfaces. Go to Google Play Market, find this component and update it to the latest version.
If the detector suddenly stops working, first clear the 2GIS application cache in the phone settings without deleting user data.
Comparison with alternative identification services
There are many call identification solutions on the market, and it is important to understand the place 2GIS among them. The main advantage of the mapping service is its database of organizations. If you receive a call from a bank, taxi service or store, 2GIS it will most likely show the exact name of the legal entity, since this data is verified when adding branches to the card.
Specialized ID apps often rely on user-generated content, where people themselves flag numbers as “spam” or “scammers.” This creates a huge database of private numbers, but can suffer from subjectivity in ratings. 2GIS It also focuses on the business sector, making it an ideal choice for those waiting for important business calls.
Another plus is that there is no need for a separate application. You don't need to keep a heavy process running in the background if you use cards regularly. Integrating the identifier into the main functionality makes use more convenient and less noticeable for the user, without creating unnecessary load on the call interface.
⚠️ Attention: The privacy policy of services may change. Before using any caller ID, please read the terms of processing your data in the official application or on the developer's website to understand how your call log is used.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will my number be visible to other 2GIS users?
No, turning on caller ID does not mean that your the personal number becomes public in the database. You get access to caller information, but your privacy is maintained. Your number is displayed only if you yourself added the organization to 2GIS and indicated it as a contact.
Does the identifier work in roaming?
The function works if there is an Internet connection. If you are in roaming and have mobile data or Wi-Fi, numbers will be determined correctly. However, it is worth considering your operator's tariffs for data transfer abroad.
Why does the identifier show the wrong organization name?
The database is formed on the basis of information provided by the companies themselves when adding branches. If an organization has changed its name or moved, but has not updated the data in 2GIS, outdated information may be displayed on the screen. You can suggest an edit through the app.
Is it possible to disable the function for specific contacts?
In the current version of the application, there is no flexible setting of exceptions for individual contacts. The call identifier works globally for all incoming calls that are not stored in your phone book under a specific name. To disable it, you need to deactivate the function in the general profile settings.