That ping of your phone, always a little jolt of anticipation, right? But then you see it’s another robocall, the one selling extended car warranties for a car you don’t even own, or that telemarketer you’ve blocked three times already. It’s enough to make you want to throw your phone across the room! In our hyper-connected world, unwanted calls can quickly turn a moment of peace into a frustrating interruption, chipping away at our focus and our sanity. We all know the drill: a ringing phone that promises connection, only to deliver annoyance.
This constant barrage of unsolicited calls is a modern-day pestilence, and finding relief is key to reclaiming your peace of mind and your productivity. That’s precisely why we’ve delved deep into the world of call blocking technology to bring you the absolute best call blockers. Whether you’re looking for a simple app to screen your calls or a dedicated hardware device to create a fortress against unwanted numbers, this guide is designed to help you cut through the noise and find the perfect solution to silence those persistent nuisters.
Before moving into the review of the best call blockers, let’s check out some of the relevant products from Amazon:
Last update on 2025-09-03 / #ad / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Tired of the Ring? Let’s Find Your Peace with the Best Call Blockers
Remember the days when your phone was just for talking to people you actually wanted to talk to? It feels like a distant memory, doesn’t it? Now, our phones are a constant barrage of unwanted calls – from those persistent telemarketers trying to sell us things we don’t need, to those suspiciously vague robocalls that promise prizes or threaten dire consequences. It’s enough to make anyone want to unplug their phone for good, but in today’s world, that’s just not practical. We rely on our phones for everything from staying connected with loved ones to managing our work.
The good news is, you don’t have to suffer in silence (or rather, in endless ringing). There’s a whole world of solutions out there designed to help you reclaim your phone and your sanity. We’re talking about call blocking technology, and it’s become an absolute lifesaver for millions. Did you know that the average person receives over 14 unwanted calls per month? That’s a significant chunk of your day spent dealing with noise you never asked for. Fortunately, the market for the best call blockers has exploded, offering a range of options to suit every need and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a simple app to filter out spam on your smartphone, a dedicated hardware device that works with your landline, or a more comprehensive service that actively identifies and blocks fraudulent calls, there’s something out there for you. Think of these tools as your personal bouncers for your phone, deciding who gets past the velvet rope and who gets shown the door. They can identify known spam numbers, allow you to create custom blocklists, and some even use advanced AI to learn and adapt to new scam tactics.
In this article, we’re going to dive deep into the world of call blocking. We’ll explore what makes a call blocker truly effective, discuss the different types available, and, most importantly, help you identify the best call blockers currently on the market. Get ready to say goodbye to those intrusive rings and hello to a more peaceful, productive phone experience. Your ears (and your patience) will thank you!
The Best Call Blockers
Nomorobo
Tired of the constant ping of unwanted calls interrupting your day? Nomorobo is a fantastic solution that acts like a digital bouncer for your phone. It’s incredibly easy to set up, and once it’s running, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The service intelligently identifies and blocks known robocallers, ensuring those annoying automated messages and sales pitches never reach your ears. It’s like having a personal assistant dedicated to keeping your phone line clear and peaceful.
What really sets Nomorobo apart is its straightforward effectiveness. It doesn’t get bogged down in overly complicated features, focusing instead on what it does best: blocking spam calls. Plus, it works on both landlines and mobile phones, making it a versatile choice for almost any household. If you’re looking for a reliable and hassle-free way to reclaim your phone from the clutches of robocallers, Nomorobo is definitely worth considering.
RoboKiller
RoboKiller is like a superhero for your phone, swooping in to save you from the relentless onslaught of unwanted calls. This app doesn’t just block numbers; it actively fights back with a range of clever features designed to deter spammers. Ever received a call from a number that looks suspiciously like yours? RoboKiller has you covered with its “Number Spoofing Protection.” Plus, its “Answer Bot” feature can even engage with robocallers, wasting their time and collecting valuable data to improve the service for everyone.
The sheer innovation packed into RoboKiller is impressive. From its ever-growing library of known spam numbers to its user-friendly interface, it’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into making this app a powerful tool. It’s more than just a blocker; it’s a comprehensive spam-fighting system that helps you regain control of your communication. If you’re ready to take the fight to the robocallers, RoboKiller offers a sophisticated and entertaining way to do it.
Truecaller
If you’re constantly wondering who’s on the other end of an unknown call, Truecaller is your new best friend. This app goes beyond simple blocking by providing caller ID for numbers not saved in your contacts, and even identifies potential spam or telemarketers. It’s like having a crowd-sourced directory of who’s calling, empowering you to decide whether or not to answer. The peace of mind knowing you’re not about to pick up another unwanted sales pitch is invaluable.
Beyond its identification capabilities, Truecaller also offers robust blocking features that you can customize. You can block numbers individually, create custom block lists, or rely on its community-powered spam detection to filter out the worst offenders. It’s a powerful combination of identification and prevention that makes managing your incoming calls significantly easier and more secure. For anyone who values privacy and wants to avoid unwanted interruptions, Truecaller is an excellent choice.
Hiya
Hiya is a streamlined and effective solution for anyone fed up with spam and scam calls cluttering up their phone. It’s designed to be incredibly easy to use, with a focus on providing clear information about incoming calls and blocking unwanted ones with minimal fuss. The app’s strength lies in its vast database of spam numbers, which is constantly updated, ensuring that new threats are identified and blocked quickly. It’s a reliable guardian for your phone.
What makes Hiya stand out is its commitment to simplicity and effectiveness. It doesn’t bombard users with a confusing array of options, instead focusing on core functionality that delivers results. The caller ID feature is particularly useful, giving you a heads-up about who’s calling before you even decide to answer. For those who want a no-nonsense approach to call blocking that actually works, Hiya is a solid and dependable option.
Nomorobo Max
For those who want the ultimate protection against unwanted calls, Nomorobo Max takes the already impressive Nomorobo service to a whole new level. This isn’t just about blocking robocalls; it’s about creating a truly spam-free calling experience. It intelligently screens every incoming call, using advanced technology to identify and block not only robocalls but also unwanted sales calls and potential scams before they even reach your phone. Think of it as a premium security detail for your line.
The added features in Nomorobo Max, like its ability to block calls based on specific criteria and its continuous updates from a large community, make it a formidable defense against telemarketing nuisances. It’s designed for people who want a comprehensive and proactive approach to silencing their phones from unwanted interruptions. If you’re willing to invest a little more for superior peace of mind and a significantly reduced number of bothersome calls, Nomorobo Max delivers.
Why You Need a Call Blocker
Ever find yourself mid-conversation with a friend, only to be interrupted by a robotic voice hawking extended car warranties or a persistent salesperson who just won’t take no for an answer? It’s frustrating, right? These unwanted calls, often referred to as robocalls, can disrupt your day, steal your valuable time, and even pose a security risk. In today’s connected world, where your phone is your lifeline for communication, emergencies, and staying in touch with loved ones, these incessant interruptions can feel like a personal invasion of your privacy and peace.
Imagine a scenario where you’re finally getting your kids settled for bedtime, or you’re in a crucial work meeting, and your phone buzzes with yet another unsolicited call. The sheer annoyance and the mental energy it takes to constantly decide whether to answer or ignore can be exhausting. This is where a good call blocker truly shines. Think of it as your personal digital bodyguard for your phone. It acts as a gatekeeper, diligently filtering out the nuisances before they even have a chance to bother you, allowing you to reclaim your focus and enjoy uninterrupted conversations and important moments.
The best call blockers offer more than just basic number blocking. They often come equipped with sophisticated databases that identify and block known spam numbers automatically. Some even learn from your own blocking habits, becoming smarter over time to protect you from emerging scams. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that the majority of those irritating telemarketers and fraudsters are being intercepted before they even ring. This not only saves you time but also protects you from potentially falling victim to scams that prey on unsuspecting individuals.
Ultimately, investing in a call blocker is an investment in your sanity and security. It empowers you to control who reaches you, when they reach you, and ensures that your phone remains a tool for genuine connection and productivity, rather than a source of constant disruption and anxiety. It’s about giving yourself the gift of a calmer, more focused, and more secure communication experience, allowing you to truly enjoy the benefits of having a phone without the unwanted baggage that often comes with it.
How Call Blockers Work
Call blockers, whether they are dedicated hardware devices or software-based apps, operate on distinct principles to intercept unwanted calls. At their core, most call blockers rely on databases of known spam or robocall numbers. These databases are constantly updated by crowdsourced information and security firms, providing a constantly evolving shield against unwanted solicitations.
For hardware devices, the process typically involves connecting to your phone line. When an incoming call arrives, the device checks the caller ID against its internal or cloud-based database. If a match is found, the device can either send the call directly to a dead number, play a pre-recorded message to the caller, or simply prevent the call from reaching your phone at all. Some advanced hardware devices also offer features like blocking by specific area codes or number patterns.
Software-based call blockers, on the other hand, leverage the capabilities of your smartphone. These apps intercept calls through your phone’s operating system. Similar to hardware, they utilize extensive databases to identify and block unwanted callers. Many also offer advanced features such as AI-powered analysis of call behavior, allowing them to flag or block calls that exhibit suspicious patterns even if the number isn’t explicitly in a known spam list.
Types of Call Blocking Solutions
The landscape of call blocking offers a variety of solutions to suit different needs and preferences. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when selecting the most effective method for your situation. Broadly, these solutions fall into two main categories: hardware devices and software applications.
Hardware call blockers are standalone devices that plug into your landline or connect wirelessly to your mobile phone. These are often favored by individuals who prefer a dedicated, physical solution that doesn’t require ongoing management through a smartphone app. They typically offer simple setup and rely on comprehensive databases for their blocking capabilities, making them a good choice for those less tech-savvy or who want a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
Software-based call blockers, conversely, are applications downloaded onto smartphones. These apps often offer more dynamic and customizable blocking features. They can leverage your phone’s existing capabilities to identify spam, analyze call patterns using AI, and even block calls based on specific keywords in a caller’s message. The advantage here is the seamless integration with your mobile experience and the potential for more sophisticated, adaptive blocking.
Features to Consider in a Call Blocker
When evaluating potential call blocking solutions, several key features can significantly impact their effectiveness and your overall satisfaction. Beyond basic call blocking, modern devices and apps offer a suite of functionalities designed to provide a more robust and personalized experience in combating unwanted calls.
A primary consideration is the quality and comprehensiveness of the caller database. A call blocker is only as good as the information it has access to. Look for solutions that boast frequently updated, large databases of known spam, scam, and robocall numbers. Features like crowdsourcing and real-time updates are strong indicators of a reliable service.
Another crucial aspect is the customization and control offered. Can you create your own blocklist? Can you unblock specific numbers that might have been mistakenly flagged? Some advanced blockers allow you to block entire area codes, international calls, or numbers that don’t display caller ID. The ability to fine-tune these settings ensures you’re not inadvertently blocking legitimate calls.
Ease of use and integration are also vital. For hardware, a simple setup process is paramount. For software, the app should be intuitive to navigate and not drain excessive battery life. Compatibility with your specific phone service or carrier is also something to verify to ensure seamless operation.
The Future of Call Blocking Technology
The persistent problem of unwanted calls is driving rapid innovation in call blocking technology. As scammers and robocallers become more sophisticated, so too must the tools designed to combat them, moving beyond simple number blocking into more intelligent and adaptive systems.
One significant area of development lies in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Future call blockers will likely employ AI to analyze call patterns, voice characteristics, and even the content of prerecorded messages to identify malicious intent, even from unknown numbers. This proactive approach could significantly reduce the number of spam calls reaching users’ devices.
Furthermore, increased collaboration between telecommunication carriers, government agencies, and technology providers is expected. This partnership could lead to industry-wide solutions that implement blocking at the network level, preventing unwanted calls before they even reach individual phones. Enhanced caller ID authentication protocols, like STIR/SHAKEN, are already paving the way for this, aiming to reduce caller ID spoofing.
The integration of call blocking with other smart home and communication devices is also on the horizon. Imagine a system that can learn your calling habits and automatically adjust blocking rules, or one that can identify and block malicious calls originating from IoT devices. The future promises a more intelligent, integrated, and less intrusive approach to managing unwanted communication.
Finding Your Peace: A Friendly Guide to the Best Call Blockers
Hey there! Are you tired of your phone ringing incessantly with unwanted calls? You know the drill: the silent pause on the other end, the aggressive sales pitch, or maybe just a number you don’t recognize that you know is going to be a nuisance. It feels like no matter how many times you press that “ignore” button, they just keep coming. Well, you’re definitely not alone in this! In today’s world, our phones are lifelines, but they can also be gateways for a constant barrage of interruptions. That’s where the magic of call blockers comes in. Think of them as your personal digital bouncers, keeping the riff-raff out and letting the important stuff through.
But with so many options out there, from fancy gadgets to clever apps, how do you even begin to choose the right one? It can feel a bit overwhelming, right? Don’t worry, that’s exactly why I’m here! I’ve been down the rabbit hole of trying to find the best call blockers, and I’ve learned a thing or two along the way. My goal is to help you navigate this landscape so you can finally enjoy some peace and quiet, without missing out on those calls you actually want. So, let’s dive in and figure out what makes a call blocker truly effective and, more importantly, what will work best for you.
Your Personal Peacekeeper: Understanding Different Types of Call Blockers
Imagine this: you’re finally settled in with a good book, or maybe you’re in the middle of a crucial work call, and BAM! Your phone rings with another spam attempt. It’s incredibly frustrating, isn’t it? That’s where the initial appeal of call blockers comes in – they promise a sanctuary from these digital pests. But it’s important to know that call blockers aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are typically two main camps: hardware devices that plug into your landline or connect wirelessly to your mobile, and software-based solutions, usually in the form of apps for your smartphone. Both have their strengths, and understanding these differences is the first step towards finding your ultimate peacekeeper.
Think about your current phone setup. Do you primarily rely on your mobile phone, or do you still have a landline that gets its fair share of unwanted attention? If your landline is the main culprit, a dedicated hardware call blocker might be your best bet. These often sit near your phone and have their own database or allow you to easily add numbers to a blacklist. On the other hand, if your smartphone is the target of these persistent callers, an app might be more convenient and integrate more seamlessly with your daily usage. Many of these apps leverage community-driven databases of known spam numbers, constantly updating to keep you protected. Knowing which device or platform you’re trying to protect will significantly narrow down your search for the best call blockers.
Ease of Use: You Want Peace, Not a Puzzle
Let’s be honest, the last thing you want when you’re trying to escape annoying robocalls is to spend hours figuring out a complicated new gadget or app. The promise of a call blocker is to simplify your life and bring you peace, not to add a new layer of technological frustration. So, when you’re looking at the different options for the best call blockers, pay close attention to how easy they are to set up and use on a day-to-day basis. A good call blocker should feel intuitive, almost like a natural extension of your phone’s existing features, rather than a foreign object you have to wrestle with.
Consider how you’ll be adding numbers to your block list. Is it a simple one-tap process, or does it involve navigating through multiple menus? Similarly, how does it handle blocking unknown or private numbers? You want a system that allows you to quickly and efficiently block a number right after you receive a call, without missing a beat. For hardware devices, this might mean a dedicated button on the unit. For apps, it could be an immediate prompt after a call ends. The less effort required to block a number, the more likely you are to actually use the feature consistently, and therefore, the more effective your call blocker will be in the long run.
Block List Capacity: How Many Nuisances Can It Handle?
Nobody likes dealing with telemarketers or scam artists, and the sheer volume of these calls can be overwhelming. When you’re searching for the best call blockers, one of the key things to consider is how many numbers you can actually block. Some of the more basic solutions might only allow you to block a handful of numbers, which can be incredibly limiting if you’re receiving dozens of unwanted calls a day. You want a system that can handle your needs, both now and in the future, as the landscape of spam calling evolves.
Think about how many numbers you’d ideally like to have on your personal blacklist. Do you tend to get calls from the same few numbers repeatedly? Or are you dealing with a constant influx of new, unknown callers? Some of the more advanced hardware devices and apps boast the ability to block thousands, or even tens of thousands, of numbers. This is particularly useful if you’re relying on a pre-populated database of known spam numbers. If you’re only blocking numbers manually, a larger capacity still gives you more flexibility to curate your own protected list without constantly having to delete old entries to make room for new ones.
Database and Updates: Staying Ahead of the Spam Game
The world of unwanted calls is constantly changing, with new numbers popping up all the time. This is why the database and update capabilities of a call blocker are absolutely crucial. You don’t want to invest in a solution that’s going to be outdated the moment you buy it. The best call blockers are those that actively work to stay ahead of the curve, constantly refreshing their lists of known spam and robocall numbers. This means looking for solutions that offer regular, automatic updates, ideally without you having to do anything.
Consider where the blocker gets its information. Some devices and apps rely on community-driven databases, where users report spam numbers. This can be very effective, as it leverages the collective intelligence of many people. However, it’s important to ensure these databases are actively maintained and that the app or device has a mechanism for verifying reported numbers. A blocker that relies solely on manual input from you will quickly become a losing battle. Therefore, a robust, regularly updated database is a cornerstone of any truly effective call blocking strategy.
Call Screening and Customization: Fine-Tuning Your Protection
While simply blocking a number is great, what if you want a bit more finesse in how you manage your calls? This is where call screening and customization options come into play, and they can be a real game-changer when you’re looking for the best call blockers. Imagine being able to decide what happens to a call from an unknown number. Do you want it to go straight to voicemail? Or perhaps you want the caller to go through a quick screening process where they have to state their name? These features can help you filter out the most persistent nuisances without accidentally blocking legitimate calls.
The ability to customize your blocking rules is also incredibly valuable. For instance, you might want to automatically block all calls with “private” or “unknown” caller IDs. Or perhaps you want to allow calls from specific contacts while blocking everyone else during certain hours. Some advanced systems even allow you to create different blocking profiles for different situations, like “work mode” or “family time.” Having this level of control allows you to tailor your call blocking experience precisely to your needs and preferences, ensuring you get the most effective protection without sacrificing convenience.
Compatibility with Your Devices: Does It Play Nicely?
This might seem obvious, but it’s a crucial step that can sometimes be overlooked when you’re excitedly looking for the best call blockers. You need to make sure that whatever solution you choose is actually compatible with the phone or phones you want to protect. For hardware call blockers, this often means checking if it works with your specific landline phone system. For app-based solutions, you’ll need to confirm it’s available for your smartphone’s operating system, whether that’s iOS or Android.
Don’t just assume! A quick check of the product description or app store page can save you a lot of headaches down the line. Think about it: you could find the most amazing call blocker, only to realize it won’t work with your current phone, or it requires a specific type of connection you don’t have. Ensuring compatibility upfront means you can focus on the features and effectiveness of the call blocker itself, rather than dealing with unexpected technical hurdles.
Cost and Subscription Models: What’s the Long-Term Investment?
Let’s talk about the practicalities – the price. When you’re trying to find the best call blockers, you’ll encounter a range of costs, from one-time purchases for hardware devices to monthly or annual subscription fees for apps. It’s important to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the ongoing expenses and what you’re getting for your money. A cheap device that doesn’t work well isn’t a good deal, and an expensive subscription that doesn’t offer much value is also a waste.
For hardware devices, you’ll typically pay a one-time fee. Look for reviews that discuss the device’s durability and performance over time. For apps, you might see a free version with basic features and a premium version with more advanced capabilities. Some apps require a subscription to access their updated databases and advanced features. Consider whether the features offered in a paid subscription justify the recurring cost for you. It’s about finding that sweet spot between affordability and robust, effective call blocking that will truly bring you peace of mind.
FAQ
What is a call blocker and how does it work?
Think of a call blocker as your personal digital bouncer, deciding who gets to interrupt your day and who doesn’t. Essentially, it’s a device or service that intercepts incoming calls and, based on your preferences, either blocks them entirely, sends them to voicemail, or lets them through. This can range from simple hardware devices that plug into your phone line to sophisticated apps on your smartphone that use databases of known spam numbers and advanced algorithms to identify unwanted calls.
These blockers work by analyzing incoming call data, like the phone number, location, and sometimes even the calling pattern. You can often create your own custom block lists for numbers that have bothered you in the past, or utilize pre-populated lists of known robocallers and telemarketers. Some even offer features that let you whitelist trusted contacts, ensuring you never miss an important call while still keeping the pests at bay.
Are call blockers legal to use?
Absolutely! Using call blockers is completely legal and, in fact, a great way to reclaim your peace and quiet. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) in the US, for example, provides consumers with rights regarding unwanted telemarketing calls and the use of automated dialing systems. Call blocking technology is a legitimate tool for consumers to exercise those rights and protect themselves from unwanted solicitations.
While the technology is legal, it’s always a good idea to be aware of any specific regulations in your region regarding phone usage and privacy. However, for the vast majority of users, employing a call blocker is a standard and perfectly acceptable practice to manage unwanted calls and protect your privacy.
Will a call blocker block legitimate calls I want to receive?
That’s a very common and understandable concern! The good news is that most reputable call blockers are designed with user control in mind. You have the power to decide what gets blocked and what gets through. You can typically create “allow lists” or “whitelist” contacts, meaning numbers you specifically want to hear from will bypass any blocking features.
Modern call blockers are also getting smarter. Many use algorithms that can differentiate between a legitimate missed call from someone trying to reach you and a suspicious robocall. If you ever find a legitimate call has been blocked, it’s usually a simple matter of adjusting your settings or adding that number to your allow list, so you can fine-tune the system to your exact needs.
How do I choose the right call blocker for my needs?
Choosing the right call blocker really depends on your situation and how you prefer to manage your calls. If you have a traditional landline phone and want a simple, plug-and-play solution, a hardware call blocker might be perfect. For smartphone users, an app offers more advanced features, greater flexibility, and often updates its spam databases automatically.
Consider what features are most important to you. Do you want a huge, constantly updated database of known spam numbers? Do you need the ability to block calls by area code or country? Are you looking for a simple way to block specific numbers you know are annoying? Think about your budget too, as some apps and devices are free, while others come with a monthly or yearly fee for premium features.
Can I use a call blocker with my smartphone?
Definitely! In fact, smartphones are where many of the most sophisticated and user-friendly call blockers are found. There are numerous apps available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store that are designed specifically to work with your mobile phone. These apps can leverage your phone’s capabilities to identify and block unwanted calls in real-time.
These smartphone apps often come with a wealth of features, such as crowdsourced spam reporting, automatic blocking of known robocall numbers, and the ability to create your own personal block lists. They’re a fantastic way to keep your mobile experience clean and free from annoying interruptions without needing any extra hardware.
What’s the difference between a hardware call blocker and a call blocking app?
The main difference lies in how they operate and the flexibility they offer. A hardware call blocker is a physical device that you connect to your phone line, usually between your phone and the wall jack. These are often great for traditional landlines and can be very straightforward to use, typically featuring a screen and buttons for managing blocked numbers.
On the other hand, call blocking apps live on your smartphone. They integrate directly with your phone’s calling functions, allowing them to access and analyze incoming calls. Apps generally offer more dynamic features, like automatically updating spam lists, sophisticated caller ID information, and the ability to block calls based on various criteria beyond just the phone number.
Can I block calls from specific numbers without a dedicated call blocker?
Yes, you absolutely can! Most modern smartphones have built-in call blocking features that allow you to block individual numbers directly from your call history. When you receive a call from a number you want to block, you can usually tap on it, go to call details, and find an option to “Block this Caller” or something similar.
While this is a great way to block persistent nuisances, it’s a manual process for each number. If you’re dealing with a high volume of unwanted calls, especially from spoofed numbers that change frequently, a dedicated call blocker (either hardware or an app) will be much more effective because they can automatically identify and block large lists of known spam numbers without you having to intervene each time.
Final Words
Alright, you’ve navigated the wild world of annoying calls and emerged with a clear picture of your options. Remember, reclaiming your peace and quiet isn’t just about stopping spam – it’s about taking back control of your day, your focus, and your sanity. Whether you’re leaning towards a sleek, dedicated device or a powerful app, the journey to a less intrusive phone life starts with a single, confident step. You’ve got the intel now, and that means you’re ready to find the best call blockers for your unique needs. Go forth and silence those bothersome interruptions – your quiet moments await!
Think of this as your launchpad to a more serene communication experience. You’re not just buying a gadget or downloading an app; you’re investing in uninterrupted dinners, focused work sessions, and the simple joy of answering your phone without a knot of dread in your stomach. With the knowledge you’ve gained, you can confidently choose the solution that will transform your phone from a source of frustration into the helpful tool it was always meant to be. Get ready to enjoy a calmer, more controlled mobile life – the power to achieve it is in your hands.