The recent Google Dialer update has left many Android users feeling a bit lost. The new design, stripped-down features, and, in some regions, broken call recording, have made the default phone app more of a headache than a help. If you’re tired of fighting with the new interface and want to take back control of your calling experience, it’s time to explore the wonderful world of alternative dialer apps.
The good news is, you don’t have to settle. The Google Play Store is packed with powerful, customizable, and feature-rich dialer apps that can do everything Google’s app can’t, and more. We’ve scoured the reviews and features to find the best alternatives that feel intuitive, human, and just plain better.
Here are our top picks for the best alternative dialer apps:
1. True Phone Dialer & Contacts
If you’re looking for an app that feels like a polished, fully-featured upgrade, True Phone is your best bet. It’s consistently praised for its incredible level of customisation. Think of it as a blank canvas for your calling needs.
Why it’s a great alternative:
- Customisation King: You can change everything from the look and feel of the incoming call screen to the layout of your contacts. It offers a variety of themes and layouts, so you can make it feel exactly the way you want.
- Smart & Fast: The T9 dialer is incredibly fast and intuitive. It quickly searches your contacts and call history, making it a breeze to find who you need to call.
- Feature-Packed: It includes a robust contact manager, group organization, and, for many users, reliable call recording. This is a huge win for anyone who lost this functionality in the Google update.
- Dual-SIM Support: For those who juggle two numbers, True Phone offers excellent and extended dual-SIM support.
While it’s free to try for a limited time, the in-app purchase to remove ads is well worth the investment for the power and control it gives you.
2. Truecaller: The Global Standard for Caller ID
Truecaller is more than just a dialer; it’s a global network for identifying spam and unknown callers. If you get a lot of spam or telemarketing calls, this is the app that will change your life.
Why it’s a great alternative:
- Unbeatable Caller ID: This is Truecaller’s killer feature. It can identify the names of unknown callers and often flags spammers and telemarketers before your phone even rings.
- Built-in Call Blocker: With a single tap, you can block numbers and even entire spam categories, making sure those annoying calls never get through again.
- Integrated SMS: Truecaller seamlessly integrates your call and SMS history, providing a unified communication hub. It also includes a robust spam filter for texts.
The one thing to note is that Truecaller is a community-based app, so it requires you to share your contacts to get the full benefits. For many, the peace of mind from blocking spam is a worthwhile trade-off.
3. ACR Phone
Developed by the same team behind the popular ACR Call Recorder, this app is built for one purpose: to make call recording simple and reliable. If the Google Dialer update broke your ability to record calls, ACR Phone is the most direct solution.
Why it’s a great alternative:
- Focus on Call Recording: Unlike other apps where call recording is a bonus feature, it’s the core of ACR Phone. The app is specifically designed to work around Android’s limitations to ensure high-quality, two-way recordings.
- Simple and Clean: The interface is straightforward and gets the job done without any unnecessary frills. It’s a no-nonsense app for a no-nonsense user.
- Free to Use: The call recording functionality is free, which is a major benefit for those who don’t want to pay for a feature that should have been available to them in the first place.
Keep in mind that to get the full recording functionality, you might need to install an accompanying helper app from the developer’s website, but it’s a small step for a huge payoff.
4. Easy Phone
If you’re looking for a simple, beautiful, and ad-free experience, Easy Phone lives up to its name. It’s perfect for users who just want a dialer that works and looks good doing it.
Why it’s a great alternative:
- Intuitive Design: The user interface is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. It’s a breath of fresh air compared to cluttered or confusing apps.
- Built-in Spam Blocker: It comes with a powerful spam blocker and caller ID that helps you avoid unwanted calls without needing a separate app.
- Free and Ad-Free: This is a huge bonus. Easy Phone is completely free with no ads, which makes it a fantastic option for anyone who wants a premium experience without the cost.
Easy Phone is a solid choice for anyone who values simplicity and wants to escape the frustrations of the new Google Dialer without getting overwhelmed by a ton of extra features.
The Takeaway
While the Google Dialer update was a setback for many, it’s also a great opportunity to explore the incredible innovation happening in the Android app ecosystem. Whether you prioritize a highly customizable interface, powerful spam blocking, or reliable call recording, there’s a perfect alternative waiting for you on the Play Store. Download a few, try them out, and find the one that puts you back in control of your phone.