Situations when it is impossible to answer an incoming call occur for every smartphone owner. You may be out of network coverage, in an important meeting, or simply forget your phone at home. In such cases, it is critical that the subscriber does not hear long beeps, but is redirected to another number or voicemail. Call forwarding is a standard mobile communication feature that allows you to automatically transfer incoming calls to an alternative number.
On devices under control Android implementation of this function may differ depending on the version of the operating system and the manufacturer's shell. However, the basic principles and control commands remain the same for all cellular operators. Understanding how conditional and unconditional forwardingworks will help you never miss an important conversation, even if your phone is turned off.
In this guide, we will look in detail at all the available methods for setting up call forwarding. We will consider both the built-in tools of the system and universal USSD commandsthat work even on the simplest push-button phones. You will learn the difference between redirection when busy and when there is no answer, as well as how to check the current status of services.
Universal setup method via USSD codes
The most reliable and fastest way to manage communication services is to use USSD requests. This method does not depend on your smartphone model, version Android or Internet availability. Commands are processed directly on the side of the cellular operator, which guarantees their operation even if the phone menu malfunctions.
To activate various types of forwarding, standard codes approved by international GSM standards are used. You need to open the Phone application, go to dial the number and enter the appropriate combination, ending it with the call button. The system will instantly display the status of the operation on the screen.
- 📞
*21*number#— enables unconditional forwarding (all calls go to the specified number). - 📞
*67*number#— forwarding only when your number is busy with a conversation. - 📞
*61*number#—forwarding if you have not answered the phone for a certain time. - 📞
*62*number#—forwarding if the phone is turned off or is out of the network area.
For example, to transfer all calls to the number +79001234567, the command will look like this: 21+79001234567#.
⚠️ Attention: The forwarding service is paid for by most operators. Tariffing usually occurs for two outgoing calls: from the caller to you and from you to a new number. Check the terms of the tariff in your personal account before activation.
If you are using a dual-SIM phone, USSD codes apply only to the SIM card that is currently selected for making a call. Make sure that the desired line is active before entering the command.
Setting through the standard Android menu
Modern versions Android offer a convenient graphical interface for managing calls, hiding complex codes from the user. The path to the settings may differ slightly on smartphones Samsung, Xiaomi or Pixel, but the general logic remains the same. Typically, the necessary options are located in the settings section of the “Phone” application itself.
To find the desired item, open the “dialer” and click on the three dots in the corner of the screen or the gear icon. In the menu that opens, look for the section "Additional settings" or Call settings. This is where the “Forwarding” submenu is hidden, where the system will ask the operator for the current status of services.
After loading the list of available options, you will see four main operating modes. The specific mode you choose depends on your current needs. The system will prompt you to enter a phone number to which calls should be forwarded for the selected scenario.
- 📱 Always forward: all incoming calls immediately go to another number, your phone does not ring.
- 📱 If busy: triggered when you are on the phone or reject a call manually.
- 📱 If there is no answer: turns on after several rings if you do not pick up the handset.
- 📱 If unavailable: activates when the phone is turned off or there is no signal.
☑️ Check forwarding settings
The interface may request confirmation of the action. After entering the number and pressing the “Enable” or “OK” button, the smartphone will send a hidden USSD request. If the operation was successful, you will see a notification “Setup completed” or a similar message from the operator.
Setting features on different shells
Smartphone manufacturers often modify the standard interface Androidby adding your own controls. This can make it difficult to find the feature you need, especially for newbies. Below are the paths to the settings for the most popular brands so that you can quickly navigate.
On devices Samsung with a shell One UI the path is as follows: open the phone, press the three dots, select Settings, then scroll down to the item Additional services. There you will find the forwarding menu. On smartphones Xiaomi (MIUI), you need to go to the call settings, select a SIM card and find the item Additional settings.
Hidden engineering testing menus
On some devices, access to advanced communication settings can be obtained through a code ##4636##. However, using this menu is not recommended for ordinary users, since incorrectly changing the parameters can lead to loss of connection.
Owners of “clean” Android on smartphones Google Pixel or Moto will find these settings in the section Calls -> Additional -> Forwarding calls. If the item is missing or inactive, this may indicate a problem with the network profile or blocking by the operator.
| Brand / Shell | Path to settings | Interface features |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung (One UI) | Phone -> Settings -> Additional. services | Separate menu for each SIM |
| Xiaomi (MIUI) | Phone -> Settings -> Additional. settings | Requires SIM card selection at the beginning |
| Google Pixel | Phone -> Settings -> Calls -> Advanced | Minimalistic design, quick access |
| Huawei (EMUI) | Phone -> Menu (4 dots) -> Settings | Often hidden in the call control submenu |
⚠️ Attention: On some custom firmware or stripped-down versions of Android for the Chinese market, the Phone application may not have a built-in forwarding menu. In this case, using USSD codes is the only option.
Using third-party applications
If standard system tools for some reason reasons do not work or the interface seems too complicated, you can use specialized applications from the store Google Play. Such utilities often provide more flexible forwarding scenarios, such as forwarding only certain contacts or calls at a given time.
Popular applications such as Call Forwarding or Auto Forwardrequire advanced permissions. To work, they need access to the call log, contacts and phone status. This is necessary so that the application can intercept the incoming signal and initiate redirection programmatically.
It is worth noting that third-party applications work differently than system redirection. They act as an intermediary: the phone receives the call, the application analyzes it and redirects it. This may result in your phone still ringing before forwarding, or the connection being established with a slight delay.
- 📲 Ability to create “white lists” for selective forwarding.
- 📲 Setting up a schedule (for example, forwarding only at night).
- 📲 Sending notifications about missed and forwarded calls.
When choosing an application, carefully read reviews and check permissions. Low-quality software can cause leakage of personal data or intrusive advertising. For the basic task of redirecting all calls, it is better to use the built-in phone functions or USSD codes.
Third-party applications are convenient for complex scenarios (by time or contacts), but for reliable redirection of “everyone”, system settings or USSD codes work more stable and faster.
Disabling and checking the forwarding status
It is important not only to be able to enable the service, but also to disable it in time, so as not to spend extra money or miss calls when the phone is in your hands again. Checking the current status allows you to make sure that the settings have been applied correctly and the phone is not in the “out of reach” mode for others.
To disable all types of forwarding at the same time, there is a universal code ##002#. Entering this command while dialing a number instantly resets all previously set redirections, returning the phone to standard operating mode. It is useful to perform this action after completing business trips or vacations.
If you want to disable only a specific type of forwarding, use codes with a hash at the end, for example #21# to cancel unconditional forwarding. To check which services are currently active, use the code *#21#. The operator will return an information message with a list of active forwardings and the numbers for which they are configured.
##002# - Disable ALL types of forwarding#21# - Disable unconditional forwarding
#67# - Disable busy forwarding
*#21# — Check the status of unconditional forwarding
In the Android graphical menu, deactivation occurs through the same section where activation was made. Just click on the active item (for example, “Always forward”) and select the option “Disable”. The interface will send a corresponding request to the operator and update the status on the screen.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting the phone settings or replacing the SIM card, the forwarding parameters may be saved on the operator’s side, but will not be displayed correctly on the phone. Always check the status through the code
*#21#after such procedures.
Frequent problems and ways to solve them
Despite the simplicity of the function, users often encounter errors during setup. The most common problem is a "Connection request failed" or "Request failed" message. This may be due to temporary network failures, insufficient funds on the balance, or blocking of the service by the operator.
If the forwarding menu in the phone settings constantly spins the loading indicator and gives an error, try rebooting the device. Sometimes the network profile freezes, and a simple reboot helps restore communication with the operator's switching center. Also make sure that there is a positive amount on your balance, since activating the service often requires charging a small fee.
In rare cases, the problem lies in the settings of the operator itself. Some tariff plans, especially archive or corporate ones, may have restrictions on the use of forwarding to numbers of other operators or abroad. In such a situation, only contacting the support service of your mobile operator will help.
Why does forwarding not work on a switched off phone?
The forwarding when unavailable function (62) works on the network side. Even if your phone is turned off, the network knows about it and redirects the call. If this does not happen, it means the service is simply not activated or the forwarding number is specified incorrectly.
Another nuance concerns smartphones with two SIM cards. Make sure you set up forwarding for the card you are being called to. The settings for the first SIM card do not affect the second in any way, they are completely independent of each other.
Is it possible to forward calls to another operator?
Yes, it is technically possible to forward calls from MTS to Beeline, from Megafon to Tele2 and so on. However, such a call will be charged according to the terms of your tariff for an outgoing call to another operator’s number, which can be expensive. Always check the cost per minute of outgoing communication before setting up inter-operator forwarding.
Am I charged for forwarding if I am in roaming?
Yes, in roaming, call forwarding can be very expensive. You pay for an incoming call in roaming (if the tariff is not unlimited) and for an outgoing call with forwarding, which is also charged at roaming rates. It is recommended to disable call forwarding before traveling abroad or configure it only to local numbers in the country of residence.
Why does the phone still ring after turning on call forwarding?
It depends on the type of call forwarding. In If No Answer mode, the phone will ring for the appropriate amount of time before transferring the call. In the “Always” mode, the phone should not ring. If he calls during unconditional forwarding, perhaps the setting has not yet been applied on the operator’s side - wait a minute or call back.
How to forward only SMS messages?
It is impossible to forward only SMS using standard Android tools and USSD codes. These commands only work for voice calls. Forwarding messages requires special third-party applications that have access to your messages and can automatically forward their text to another subscriber.
Are forwarding settings reset when you change your phone?
No, forwarding settings are stored in your SIM card profile on the cellular operator's equipment, and not in the phone's memory. If you move the SIM card to another device, all previously configured redirections will be saved and continue to work. You need to disable them manually using codes or a new phone.