Modern mobile communications provide users with a wide range of tools for managing incoming calls, and one of the most popular functions is call forwarding. In the operating system Android 9 Pie this process is implemented quite flexibly, allowing calls to be redirected depending on the line status or time of day. However, the settings interface may differ depending on the manufacturer of your device, be it Samsung, Xiaomi or pure Android One. Understanding the logic of this function will help you never miss important business calls, even when the main phone is turned off or out of range.
Service activation occurs directly at the telecom operator network level, but is initiated through the smartphone software. This means that setup is only possible if there is an active cellular signal. If you plan to use forwarding to save on roaming charges or consolidate multiple numbers into a single point of contact, you'll need a detailed understanding of all the available options. In this article we will look at not only standard paths in the menu, but also universal codes, as well as nuances that are often overlooked by ordinary users.
Setting up forwarding to Android 9 requires attention, since an incorrectly selected mode can lead to callers hearing beeps, but the call will not be connected to the desired subscriber. We'll cover scenarios when the phone is busy, when it's turned off, or when you just don't want to answer right now. The correct configuration of these parameters turns your smartphone into a reliable secretary who is always in touch.
Preparing for setup and checking the tariff plan
Before delving into the settings menu, you need to make sure that your tariff plan supports the call forwarding service. Most modern operators include this feature in the basic package, but in some corporate tariffs or older lines it may be disabled by default or require a separate charge per minute of forwarded call. It is important to check the current terms and conditions of your operator, as the rules may change without prior notice.
Also make sure that there is sufficient balance on the main number if forwarding is a paid service. When roaming, the cost of such calls can be significantly higher, so be extremely careful when activating the function abroad. Some operators charge only for an outgoing call from your number to the forwarding number, while others charge both the incoming and outgoing segment of the connection.
⚠️ Attention: When setting up forwarding in international roaming, make sure that the number to which you are forwarding calls is also available in that country. Otherwise, the call may be disconnected or charged as an international call with high rates.
To check the status of the service, you can use the operator’s personal account or call the support service. Sometimes it happens that a technical glitch on the provider’s side blocks the ability to change forwarding settings, even if the phone interface allows you to enter a number. In such a situation, resetting the network settings or temporarily removing the SIM card can help restore the connection with the switching center.
Before setting up call forwarding, make sure that the number to which you will forward calls is active and has a positive balance to avoid losing important calls.
Standard setup via the phone menu
The easiest and most intuitive way to activate call forwarding is to use the built-in “Phone” application. T Android 9 the path to these settings is usually standardized, although manufacturers may slightly change the names of the items. Open the calling application, click on the three dots in the corner of the screen to open the menu and select “Settings”. Next, you will need to find the section responsible for accounts or additional services.
In the menu that opens, you will see a list of installed SIM cards, if there are several of them. Select the one for which you want to configure incoming processing rules. The system will offer several forwarding options, each of which has its own purpose. The interface may request confirmation of the action, since changing these parameters affects the operation of the network. If the “Call Forwarding” item is inactive (dimmed), this often indicates problems with the signal or blocking of the service by the operator.
After selecting the type of forwarding, you will be asked to enter a phone number. It is important to observe the input format here: it is best to use an international format with a country code, for example +7 for Russia, to avoid routing errors. After entering the number, the system will send a request to the network, and after a few seconds you will receive confirmation of successful activation or an error code.
☑️ Check before activation
It is worth noting that on some devices with shell MIUI or OneUI the settings can be moved to a separate application “Call Management” or hidden deep in the general system settings. If you can't find the item you need in the phone app, try using the global search in your device settings by entering the keyword “forwarding.” This will save time and help you quickly Locate the desired section.
Types of forwarding and their purpose
Carriers and operating systems offer four main redirection modes, and understanding the difference between them is critical to proper communications. Each mode responds to a specific event during the connection establishment process. Choosing the wrong mode can result in the caller hearing short beeps, and the call going to another person's answering machine when you were just busy talking.
The first type is forwarding all incoming calls. In this mode, your phone does not ring at all, and all calls are instantly sent to the specified number. This is useful if you have lost your phone or are in an area where the connection is unstable, but want to stay in touch through another device. The second type is activated only when the line is busy. This is a classic scenario for business users who cannot interrupt the current conversation.
- 📞 Always forward: Calls are dropped immediately, the phone does not ring.
- ⏳ If unavailable: Triggered when the phone is turned off or there is no network.
- 🚫 If busy: Activated during another conversation or when a call is rejected.
- ⏰ If there is no answer: Activated after a certain number of rings without answer.
The third and fourth types - “if no answer” and “if unavailable” - often confused, but they work using different algorithms. No answer mode is triggered when the phone rings but you don't pick up within a specified amount of time (usually 15-30 seconds). The "unreachable" mode only works when the network cannot physically find your device. The choice between them depends on whether you want to give yourself time to answer or transfer the call immediately.
Setup using USSD codes
For users who prefer speed or are faced with the fact that the phone menu does not display the necessary options, there are universal ones USSD commands. These codes work at the communication protocol level and do not depend on the Android version or smartphone model. They allow you not only to activate, but also to deactivate or check the forwarding status. The code is entered in the dialing field, as with a regular call.
To activate the forwarding of all calls, use the code *21*number#, where instead of the word “number” you need to substitute the target phone in international format. For example, 21+79991234567#. To cancel this service, use the code #21#. Similar logic works for other conditions: the code is used for redirection when busy, and when there is no answer. After entering the command and pressing the call button, you will receive an SMS notification or pop-up message from the network. 67 used for busy forwarding, and 61 - in the absence of an answer. After entering the command and pressing the call button, you will receive an SMS notification or pop-up message from the network.
21+7XXXXXXXXXX# - Activation of all call forwarding 67+7XXXXXXXXXX# - Activation when busy 61+7XXXXXXXXXX# - Activation when there is no answer 62+7XXXXXXXXXX# - Activation when unavailable#21# - Cancel forwarding of all calls
*#21# - Checking forwarding status
Using USSD codes is especially important if you have a push-button phone as a backup or if the touch screen of your main smartphone is damaged. However, it is worth remembering that the syntax of the codes may vary slightly between different telecom operators. Some providers require the use of special prefixes or changing the number format. If the command fails, the network usually returns a text message describing the problem.
⚠️ Attention: USSD codes are sent free of charge, but the forwarding process itself may be charged according to your tariff plan. Make sure that you do not activate paid services unknowingly.
Table of forwarding codes and statuses
For the convenience of systematizing information about call control commands, a summary table is given below. It will help you quickly navigate the variety of codes and understand which one suits your current task. Saving this information can be useful in situations where you need to quickly change settings without access to the graphical interface.
| Action | USSD code | Description of condition |
|---|---|---|
| Activation (All) | *21*number# |
Immediate forwarding of any call |
| Activation (Busy) | *67*number# |
Only if the line is busy with a conversation |
| Activation (No answer) | *61*number# |
If you do not answer the phone in 15-30 seconds |
| Cancel (All) | #21# |
Complete disabling of forwarding |
| Checking status | *#21# |
Displaying the current forwarding number |
Using a table allows you to avoid errors when manually entering long sequences of characters. Please note that to cancel specific conditions (only “busy” or only “no answer”) there are specific codes, for example #67# or #61#. This makes it possible to flexibly manage scenarios, leaving only the necessary modes active.
What to do if the code gives an error?
If, when entering the USSD code, you receive an execution error message or “invalid MMI code,” try rebooting the device. If the problem persists, your operator may be blocking direct control through codes, and configuration should only be done through the app or personal account.
Troubleshooting and common errors
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users Android 9 sometimes they encounter situations where redirection is not activated or does not work correctly. One of the most common problems is the “Connection request failed” or “Network error” message. This is often due to voice roaming being disabled in settings, even if you are in your home region. Check your mobile network settings and make sure that voice roaming is allowed.
Another reason may lie in a conflict with third-party applications. Various caller IDs, spam blockers, or call recording applications can intercept call control and block system forwarding requests. Try temporarily disabling such applications and trying the setup again. It is also worth checking if the Do Not Disturb mode is set, which in some firmware versions can affect the logic for processing incoming messages.
- 🔄 Reboot: Simply turning the phone on and off often solves problems with registering on the network.
- 📱 Resetting network settings: Returns APN parameters and preferred network settings to factory settings values.
- 📞 Checking the SIM: Make sure that the SIM card is not damaged and is firmly seated in the slot.
If nothing helps, the problem may be on the operator's side. In this case, the only right step is to contact technical support. Specialists can check whether the service is blocked at the subscriber profile level and, if necessary, re-register your SIM card in the switch. Sometimes simply removing the SIM card and installing it in another phone to check the functionality of the function helps.
If system settings do not work, use USSD codes as an alternative control method, as they send a request directly to the operator's network, bypassing the phone's software limitations.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Will I be charged for a forwarded call?
Yes, in most cases, a forwarded call is charged as an outgoing call from your number to the forwarding number. The cost depends on your data plan and whether the forwarding number is in the same region or country. In roaming, the tariff can be double: for incoming to your number and for outgoing from it.
Is it possible to set up forwarding if the phone is turned off?
It is impossible to set up forwarding remotely through a turned off phone, since the device must send a request to the network. However, if forwarding was configured in advance, it will continue to work even when the phone is turned off, since control occurs on the telecom operator’s equipment.
How do I know if forwarding is enabled?
You can check the status of the service by entering the USSD code *#21# in the phone application. Also in the call settings menu, the status of each option (active/inactive) and the number to which the forwarding is usually displayed.
Is the forwarding reset when changing the SIM card?
No, the forwarding setting is tied to the phone number and subscriber profile in the operator’s network, and not to a specific SIM card or phone. If you move the SIM card to another device, the settings will be saved, but to change them you will need access to the network from this SIM card.
Why does the caller hear dial tone, although the call is being forwarded?
This is normal behavior for the “If busy” or “If there is no answer” modes. The beeps mean that the network is trying to reach you. Forwarding will work only after the condition is met (you reject the call, do not answer within a time, or the line is busy). In the “Always” mode, there should be no beeps at your end.