Overview
If you are using a device running Android 9 (Pie) or earlier, YouMail’s call blocking features may not work properly. Due to changes made by Google, older Android versions offer limited support for third-party call-blocking apps. As of March 2020, Google reduced blocking capabilities on Android 9 devices and now recommends upgrading to Android 10 or later for full functionality.
Important: YouMail blocking does not work reliably on Android 9 or earlier. Google recommends upgrading to Android 10 or newer to restore full blocking features. Older Android versions have system restrictions that YouMail cannot override |
Why is blocking limited on Android 9
Google changed how phone apps interact with the operating system on Android 9 and earlier. These changes prevent YouMail from becoming the default phone app, which is required for advanced call blocking.
Because of this limitation:
Spam and robocall blocking may not activate
Call screening features may be unavailable
Some unwanted calls may still reach your phone
Use an Older Version of YouMail (Optional Workaround)
If you cannot upgrade your device to Android 10 or later, you can install an older version of the YouMail app that still supports blocking on Android 9.
Important: Using an older version means you will not receive automatic updates.
Download the Older App Version
Open this link on your phone:
http://go.youmail.com/ymdroidvvmdfltphDownload the app file to your device
How to Enable Side-Loading on Android
Before installing the older version, you must allow apps from unknown sources.
Follow these steps:
Open Settings
Tap Apps and Notifications
Tap Advanced
Select Special App Access
Tap Install Unknown Apps
Select the app you used to download the file
Enable Allow from this source
Install the YouMail app
Limitations of Using an Older App Version
If you install an older version of YouMail:
Automatic updates will be disabled
New features will not be available
Security improvements may be missing
This option should only be used if upgrading your device is not possible.
Recommended Solution: Upgrade Android
For the best experience and full call blocking support, YouMail recommends upgrading your device to Android 10 or newer when available.
Upgrading allows:
Full spam and robocall blocking
Better call screening
Improved app performance
Continued feature updates
FAQs
Why does YouMail not block calls on my Android 9 phone?
YouMail cannot fully block calls on Android 9 due to system restrictions introduced by Google that limit third-party phone apps.
Will upgrading my phone fix this issue?
Yes. Upgrading to Android 10 or later restores full blocking functionality.
Is side-loading safe?
Side-loading is safe if you download the app only from official YouMail sources. However, it disables automatic updates.
Will I receive updates if I install the older version?
No. Older versions do not receive automatic updates or new features.
Can YouMail fix this issue without Google’s help?
No. These limitations are controlled by Android system policies and cannot be changed by YouMail.