The situation when a caller hears a voice greeting instead of beeps often takes subscribers by surprise. Many users of smartphones based Android erroneously believe that this is a function of their phone, and begin to look for settings in the device menu. In fact, in 99% of cases we are talking about a service "Answering machine" from the MTS telecom operator.
This service can be activated accidentally when changing the tariff, switching to a new line of offers, or as a result of promotions. If you do not use incoming call recording services, the presence of an answering machine can annoy your interlocutors and interfere with prompt communication. Fortunately, you can deactivate this function in several ways, without requiring a visit to the office.
In this guide, we will analyze in detail all the available methods of managing the service: from quick USSD commands to working through the operator’s official application. We will also touch on rare cases when the problem lies in the settings of the smartphone itself or third-party applications.
Quick disabling via USSD requests
The fastest way to remove the voice assistant is to use special combinations of characters. This method does not require Internet access and works even with a negative balance (if the service is already active). You need to open the standard application Phone and enter the appropriate code.
A command is provided for the classic MTS answering machine *111*217#. After dialing this combination, press the call button. A notification indicating that the service has been successfully disabled will appear on the screen. If you have activated the advanced service “Answering Machine 2.0” or “Voicemail”, the codes may differ, for example *111*0152#.
Sometimes the system may request confirmation of the action via a response SMS message. Carefully read texts from the short number 111 to make sure that the service is actually deactivated and not suspended. Using USSD menu is the most reliable option, since it sends a direct request to the operator's database.
⚠️ Attention: After disabling the service, previously recorded messages may be deleted without the possibility of recovery. If you have important information stored there, listen to them first.
If the USSD code gives the error “The request cannot be completed,” try rebooting your smartphone and repeating the procedure after 2-3 minutes.
Service management in the My MTS application
Modern smartphones Android allow you to manage services through a convenient graphical interface. The application "My MTS" provides full control over connected options. This method is the most visual, since you see not only the service itself, but also its tariff conditions.
Go to your personal account and go to the section Services. In the list of active options, find the “Answering machine” item. By clicking on it, you will be taken to a detailed control menu, where the shutdown button will be available. The interface may vary slightly depending on the application version and your phone model.
The advantage of this method is the ability to instantly check charges. You will be able to verify that your account is no longer charged for daily service fees. The application also allows you to set up forwarding to another number if the standard answering machine is not suitable for you.
- 📱 Open the main menu of the application and select the “Services” tab.
- 🔍 Use the search bar or scroll to the "Calls" category.
- ❌ Click on the active service and confirm the "Disconnect" action.
- 💳 Check the "Finance" section to make sure there are no future charges.
☑️ Checking the disconnection in the application
Call operator support
If the automatic methods did not work or you are not sure of the correctness of your actions, the best solution would be to contact a live operator. An MTS support specialist has access to your profile and can instantly disable any imposed services.
Dial a short number 0890 from your MTS phone. The call is free. Follow the prompts voice menuto connect with the operator. Usually you need to press the number “0” or wait until the end of the automatic survey.
Get ready for the conversation: the operator can ask a security question for personal identification. This could be passport data, a code word, or information about recent expenses. After confirming your identity, simply ask to disable the “Auto Answer” service.
⚠️ Attention: The waiting time for an operator during peak hours (lunchtime and weekday evenings) can reach 5-10 minutes. Be prepared to wait on the line.
Hidden phone settings and third-party applications
In rare cases, the auto-answer function can be activated not by the operator, but by the settings of the smartphone itself Android or installed applications. Some manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, Samsung or Huaweihave built-in call recording or automatic answering features.
Check your device settings. Go to the Settings → Applications → Phone section (or “Calls”). Look for items labeled “Auto Answer,” “Call Recording,” or “Voice Mail.” If such options are active, turn the switch to the “Off” position.
It is also worth checking for third-party apps from Google Playthat emulate the work of a secretary. Applications like Call Recorder or specialized caller ID may have their own auto-answer settings. Removing or reconfiguring such apps will solve the problem.
| Device type | Path to settings | Function name |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Phone → Menu (3 dots) → Settings | Answer after 2 beeps |
| Xiaomi | Phone → Settings → Call recording | Automatic recording |
| Pure Android | Phone → Settings → Voice mail | Setting up voice mail |
| Huawei | Phone → More → Settings | Auto answer with headset |
What to do if the settings are reset?
If the function Auto-response is turned on again after a reboot; it is possible that an MDM profile or a virus remains in the system. It is recommended to check your phone with an antivirus and reset the network settings.
Checking call forwarding
Sometimes subscribers confuse the answering machine with the forwarding service. If all incoming calls are automatically forwarded to another number or to a listening service, this is regulated by other commands. Make sure that you do not have unconditional forwarding active.
To disable all types of forwarding to Android use the universal code ##002#. This command resets all call forwarding settings, returning calls directly to your SIM card. This action is safe and does not affect other services.
After entering the command, you will receive a confirmation message from the network. If forwarding was set up through the phone menu, go to the call settings and select the “Disable forwarding” option. This ensures that the call does not go to a third-party service.
Code ##002# is a universal solution for resetting any forwarding settings on all Big Four operators.
Possible problems and their solutions
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users may encounter technical delays. Updating information on the operator's network takes time. Even after successfully deactivating the service, callers may still hear the greeting for 15-30 minutes.
If the service is not disabled via the app or USSD, check for blocking on the account. Sometimes technical work on the MTS side temporarily limits changes to settings. In this case, you should wait a few hours and try again.
It is important to distinguish between the operator’s paid answering machine and the free voicemail provided by some tariffs. Carefully read the terms of your tariff plan in the section Tariffs and servicesto understand the nature of the function that has arisen.
⚠️ Attention: Application interfaces and USSD codes may be changed by the operator without prior notice. If the specified codes do not work, up-to-date information can always be found in the help inside the My MTS application.
Why does the answering machine turn on by itself?
Most often this happens when switching to a new tariff plan, where this service is included by default for the first month for free. Carefully read the conditions for changing the tariff.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is there a fee for disabling the answering machine?
No, the procedure for disabling the service itself is free. However, if you have a debt for previous periods of using the answering machine, it must be paid off in order to completely deactivate the subscription.
Is it possible to recover deleted messages after deactivation?
Unfortunately, no. After disabling the “Answering Machine” service, all recorded messages are permanently deleted from the operator’s servers. Download important records in advance if you plan to disconnect.
Why does the code *111*217# not work on my Android?
This may be due to the fact that you have activated the “Answering Machine 2.0” or “Secretary” service, which have different control codes. Try using the “My MTS” application to accurately determine the name of the service.
Does disabling the answering machine affect the quality of communication?
No, disabling this service does not in any way affect the quality of voice communication, Internet speed or the operation of other functions of your smartphone and SIM card.
How to learn how much the service costs before disconnection?
The cost of the service depends on your tariff plan. The current price can be viewed in the “My MTS” application in the service card or on the operator’s official website in the tariffs section.