How to enable incoming call forwarding on Android: all methods

Incoming call forwarding on Android is a useful feature that allows you to redirect calls to another number when you are busy, unavailable, or simply don’t want to answer. This is relevant for business users who cannot miss an important call, or for those who temporarily use a second phone. However, not everyone knows that setting up forwarding may differ depending on the smartphone model, version of Android and even the mobile operator.

In this article we will look at all the possible ways to enable forwarding: from standard phone settings to USSD commands and third-party applications. You will learn how to set up conditional and unconditional forwarding, what nuances different manufacturers have (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Google Pixel), and what to do if the function does not work. We will also look at common mistakes and give security recommendations - after all, incorrect settings can lead to leakage of personal data or unwanted expenses.

What is call forwarding and why do you need it

Call forwarding (or call forwarding) is a mobile communication function that automatically redirects incoming calls to another number. It comes in several types:

• 🔄 Unconditional — all calls are redirected immediately, without a signal on the main phone.
• 📞 If there is no answer —triggered when you do not pick up the phone within a specified time (usually 15–30 seconds).
• 🚫 If busy —redirects the call if you are talking on another number.
• ❌ If unavailable — works when the phone is turned off or out of network coverage.

Main use cases:

• 💼 Work needs — redirecting a business number to a personal phone after work.
• 📱 Changing a SIM card —temporary forwarding to a new number while switching to another operator.
• 🌍 Travel abroad —saving on roaming by forwarding to a local SIM card.
• 🔧 Phone repair —so as not to skip important calls while the device is in service.

It is important to understand that call forwarding is a service of the mobile operator, and not just a phone function. Therefore, its operation depends on the tariff plan and technical capabilities of the network. Some operators may charge a fee for call forwarding, especially to numbers from other networks.

How to enable forwarding through Android settings

The easiest way is to use the built-in phone settings. The interface may differ slightly depending on the model and version Android, but the general principle is the same. Let's look at the universal instructions:

1. Open the application Phone (usually with a green handset).
2. Click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Settings (or Additional settings).
3. Go to the section Calls → Call forwarding (on some phones the path may be Settings → Additional → Forwarding).
4. Select the type of forwarding (for example, Always, If there is no answer etc.).
5. Enter the number to which you want to forward calls, and confirm.

On smartphones Samsung the path may look like this: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Additional services → Call forwarding. U Xiaomi i Redmi sometimes you need to first activate Additional settings in the menu calls.

If in There is no item in the settings Forwarding, this may mean:

• 📵 Your operator does not support this service on your tariff.
• 🔄 The function is disabled in the SIM card (you need to contact operator support).
• 📱 You have installed an unofficial firmware that has deleted system settings.

⚠️ Attention: On some phones (for example, Huawei with EMUI), forwarding may work unstable due to the features of the shell. In this case, try using USSD commands (described below).

USSD codes for forwarding: universal method

If your phone settings do not allow you to enable forwarding, you can use special USSD commands. They work on any Android smartphone, regardless of model, and interact directly with the operator’s network. Here are the main commands:

Forwarding type	Command to enable	Command to disable	Command to check status
All calls (unconditional)	21[number]#	##21#	*#21#
If there is no answer	61[number]#	##61#	*#61#
If busy	67[number]#	##67#	*#67#
If unavailable	62[number]#	##62#	*#62#

Example: to enable forwarding of all calls to the number +79123456789, dial *21*79123456789# and press the call button. In a few seconds you will receive a notification about successful activation.

Some operators (for example, MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2) may have their own nuances:

• 📞 MTS i Beeline sometimes require confirmation via SMS.
• 💰 MegaFon may charge a fee for forwarding to other numbers operators.
• ⏱️ Tele2 by default, sets the waiting time before forwarding to 20 seconds.

⚠️ Attention: Some scammers use forwarding to steal SIM cards. If you notice that your calls are being forwarded to an unknown number, immediately disable all types of forwarding with commands ##002# and contact the operator.

Features of forwarding on phones of different brands

Smartphone manufacturers often modify the Android interface, which can affect the location of forwarding settings. Let's look at the key differences for popular brands:

Samsung (One UI)

On phones Samsung Galaxy the path to settings is usually like this: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Additional services → Call forwarding. Here you can configure all types of forwarding, including the waiting time before forwarding (by default 15–30 seconds).

Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO (MIUI)

In the shell MIUI the setting is hidden deeper: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Additional settings → Call forwarding. Sometimes you need to first activate the item Advanced settings in the main call menu. On some models (for example Redmi Note 10), the function may not be available - in this case, use USSD commands.

Huawei i Honor (EMUI/HarmonyOS)

On devices with EMUI or HarmonyOS redirection is often unstable due to shell limitations. Try the path: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Call forwarding. If the function is inactive, check the SIM card settings or use USSD.

Google Pixel and pure Android

On bare Android (for example, on Google Pixel or Motorola) redirection is configured in the standard way: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Calls → Forwarding. Here you can also configure the waiting time before forwarding.

Why may forwarding not work on Huawei?

On some Huawei models (especially with HarmonyOS), the forwarding function is blocked on firmware level due to security policy. In this case, there are only two options left: use USSD commands or contact the operator to activate the service on the network side.

Applications for forwarding: when standard tools are not enough

If the built-in settings or USSD commands do not work, you can use third-party applications. They are useful in the following cases:

• 📱 Your phone does not support forwarding at the firmware level.
• 🔄 You need to manage rules flexibly (for example, forward calls only from certain contacts).
• 🌍 Forwarding via the Internet (VoIP) is required.

Popular applications:

• 📞 Call Forwarding (from Simple Mobile Tools) - a simple tool with support for USSD commands and manual configuration.
• 🔄 Truecaller - in addition to caller ID, allows you to set up forwarding for spam calls.
• 💼 Google Voice - suitable for business users, forwards calls via the Internet (requires registration in the USA).

Example setup in Call Forwarding:

1. Download the application from Google Play.
2. Select the type of forwarding (for example, "If there is no answer").
3. Enter the number to be forwarded.
4. Click Activate —the application itself will send the required USSD command.

⚠️ Attention: Forwarding applications require permission for calls and SMS. Install them only from official sources (Google Play) to avoid data leakage.

Common problems and their solutions

Redirection may not work correctly for various reasons. Here are the most common problems and ways to solve them:

Problem	Possible cause	Solution
Forwarding is not enabled	The service is not activated for operator	Call support or check the tariff
Calls are not forwarded	Incorrect number entered (without +7)	Check the number format (must be in international format)
The function is not available in the settings	Unofficial firmware or blocked by the operator	Use USSD commands or contact the operator
Forwarding works with a delay	Long waiting time before redirection	Reduce the waiting time in the settings (if available)

If after setting the forwarding does not work, follow these steps:

1. Reboot phone.
2. Check the balance - some operators block the service if the balance is negative.
3. Make sure that the number for redirection is correct and available.
4. Disable modes B on an airplane or Do not disturb.
5. Try a different type of forwarding (for example, instead of "Always" use "If there is no answer").

Security: how to avoid becoming a victim of scammers

Call forwarding is a convenient feature, but it can be dangerous in the hands of scammers. Attackers often use it to steal accounts in banks and social networks. Here's how to protect yourself:

• 🔐 Never set up forwarding at the request of strangers - even if they pose as employees of a bank or operator.
• 📵 Regularly check the forwarding status command *#002# - it will show where your calls are redirected.
• 🛡️ Enable two-factor authentication for important accounts (bank, mail, social networks).
• 📱 Do not store passwords in SMS —fraudsters can intercept confirmation codes through forwarding.

Forwarding to numbers with unusual prefixes (for example, +375, +372, +380) is especially dangerous - these can be transit numbers for fraudulent schemes. If you notice suspicious activity, immediately:

1. Disable all types of forwarding with the command ##002#.
2. Call operator support and block the SIM card.
3. Check your call history for unknown numbers.

⚠️ Attention: If you are selling a phone, be sure to reset the settings to factory settings (Settings → System → Reset) and check the forwarding command *#002#. The new owner can gain access to your calls!

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Can I set up call forwarding to several numbers at the same time?

No, standard forwarding only supports one number per type (always if there is no answer, etc.). However, some operators offer the "Group Forwarding" service - check with your provider.

How much does call forwarding cost?

Most operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) have free forwarding, but may be charged for the connection (as for an outgoing call) and tariffs for forwarded calls call. For example, if a call is redirected to the number of another operator, it may be charged as an outgoing long-distance call.

How to disable forwarding if you forgot the commands?

Universal command to disable all types of forwarding - ##002#. Dial it and press the call button. You can also disable the function in the phone settings (the path is described above).

Does forwarding work if the phone is turned off?

Yes, but only if type forwarding is enabled If unavailable (command 62[number]#). In this case, calls will be forwarded when the phone is turned off or outside the network coverage area.

Can calls be forwarded to WhatsApp or Telegram?

No, standard forwarding only works with telephone numbers numbers. However, you can use services like Google Voice (for the USA) or virtual numbers that integrate with instant messengers.