RoboKiller vs Should I Answer?

RoboKiller is an Android and iOS app that blocks spam calls and filters spam texts. Its call-blocking algorithm analyzes call metadata in less than a millisecond and blocks calls it identifies as spam before they reach the phone. Audio fingerprinting compares robocall recordings against a database of more than 1.5 billion processed phone numbers and millions of audio fingerprints. RoboKiller says its technology is 99% effective at stopping spam calls. Text filtering uses block and allow lists, number reputation, and content analysis; the company says messages are never stored or shared. The free version includes a daily-updated blacklist, blocked-call notifications, weekly insights, spam reporting, and Spam Patrol. Answer Bots, Call Screening, and Personal Data Protection require a paid plan. Answer Bots play prerecorded messages to spam callers, while Call Screening asks unknown callers for their name and reason for calling. Both features require a carrier and plan that support Conditional Call Forwarding. Listed paid options include $4.99 a month, $31.99 a year, and $39.99 a year; a 7-day trial is also listed.

Should I Answer? is a community-based service and mobile app for identifying and guarding against unwanted calls, telemarketing, and expensive outgoing calls. Its database combines community reviews with phone number ratings and is refreshed daily. On Android, the app can check a locally stored database without an internet connection and can optionally block unwanted calls automatically. The maker warns that automatic blocking may not work on every phone model. On iOS, number ratings appear in CallerID during calls or in Call History through the call blocking and identification extension. The service is also available on the web and as an extension. The Android app requires Android 4.1 or higher; Android 6 and newer require permissions for contacts, call information, and drawing over other apps. The Android manual says the local database stores phone numbers and statistics, while user reviews can be downloaded from the web service. The Android plan is free. An iOS automatic database updates plan has no listed price and includes a one-month trial period and free phone number information search.