A missed call from a client or manager due to a discharged smartphone or being in an area without a network can lead to serious consequences, so immediately setting up call forwarding on Android becomes a critical action to maintain communication.
Forwarding allows you to automatically redirect incoming calls to another phone number, voicemail or a special operator service. This is not just a convenient option, but often a necessary measure to maintain business reputation and continuity of communication. Despite the fact that the settings interface may differ depending on the device model (Samsung Galaxy, Xiaomi Redmi or Google Pixel), the principle of operation remains the same for the entire ecosystem.
In this material we will analyze in detail all the available methods for activating this function. You will learn how to use universal USSD commandsthat work even on push-button phones, how to find hidden menus in settings Android and what nuances exist when working with different mobile operators. Understanding these mechanisms will help you always stay connected, regardless of the state of the main device.
Universal method via USSD commands
The fastest and most reliable way to set up call redirection is to use special codes that are sent directly to the mobile operator’s server. This method does not depend on the operating system version or model of your smartphone. Just open the “Phone” application (dialer) and enter a sequence of characters, as when dialing a number.
There are four main types of forwarding, each of which is activated by its own unique code. These commands are standardized by the GSM consortium and work with most telecom operators around the world. However, the activation speed may depend on the quality of the signal and the network load at the moment.
- 📞 *21*number# — includes unconditional forwarding (all calls immediately go to another number).
- 📵 *67*number# — forwarding if the number is busy (you are talking on another line).
- ⏳ *62*number# —forwarding if the subscriber is unavailable (the phone is turned off or offline).
- ⏰ *61*number# —forwarding if no one answered within a certain time.
After entering the command, press the call button. You will receive a pop-up notification that the service has been successfully activated. It is often necessary to add a country code, for example +7 for Russia, instead of the first eight.
If the USSD command does not work, try adding a pause. To do this, after the asterisk, enter a comma (on some keyboards this is a pause sign), for example: *21,,number#. This gives the network more time to process the request.
To disable any of these features, simply enter the universal reset code ##002# and press call. This command erases all forwarding settings at once, returning calls to your primary device. This is especially useful if you have forgotten which redirection conditions were previously activated.
Configuration via the Android system menu
For those who prefer a visual interface to typing characters, smartphone manufacturers have built call control functionality right into the system settings. The path to these settings may vary, but the logic remains the same. Usually it is located in the section responsible for the operation of the SIM card and mobile network.
You need to go to Settings, then select item Connections or Network and Internet. Next, find the section Mobile network or SIM card management. This is where the menu Additional settingsis hidden, where the “Call Forwarding” item is located. On some devices, for example Huawei or Honor, this item may be located inside the Phone application in the settings menu (three dots in the corner of the screen).
⚠️ Attention: On dual-SIM smartphones, forwarding settings are applied separately for each SIM card. Be careful when choosing a slot so as not to accidentally redirect calls from your work SIM card to your personal number.
When you open the forwarding menu, the system will try to obtain the current service status from the operator. This process may take a few seconds. If you see a "Request Error" or "Connection Problem" message, it often means there is a temporary network failure or request incompatibility. In this case, you should switch to manually entering USSD codes, described above.
In the settings menu you will see four standard options similar to USSD commands: “Always”, “If busy”, “If unavailable” and “If not responding”. After selecting the desired option, the system will prompt you to enter the target phone number. After confirmation, the settings are saved in the phone's memory and on the operator's server.
Features of forwarding on dual-SIM devices
Modern smartphones are almost universally equipped with slots for two SIM cards, which adds a certain level of complexity to the setup process. The user needs to clearly understand which SIM card is the main one for receiving calls, and which one is used only for the Internet or outgoing calls.
When activating the function in the Android settings menu, the system usually asks you to select a SIM card at the very beginning of the process. If you selected SIM 1, all subsequent actions will only apply to it. SIM 2 will remain in standard operating mode unless you go into its settings separately. This allows you to create a flexible scheme, for example, redirecting calls from a corporate SIM card to a personal one, leaving the personal SIM card active for receiving calls.
It is worth considering that some budget smartphone models or older firmware versions may have limitations. In rare cases, the forwarding menu for the second SIM card may be inactive (grayed out) if the first SIM card is in active conversation or data transfer mode on 2G/3G networks. Switching network modes to 4G/LTE often solves this problem.
| Forwarding type | When it works | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| Unconditional | Instantly during any call | Vacation, sick leave, complete unavailability |
| If busy | During an active call | For business lines with high traffic |
| If unavailable | The phone is turned off or there is no network | Saving battery, traveling to remote places |
| If there is no answer | After 5-30 seconds of beeps | When you cannot come right away, but want to try reply |
On dual-SIM devices, always check the forwarding status for both slots separately, as the settings are not automatically synchronized between SIM cards.
Conditional and unconditional forwarding: what is the difference
Understanding the differences between the types of call forwarding is critical to the correct configuration of your phone. The wrong choice of type can lead to you losing calls or, conversely, not achieving the goal of saving time.
Unconditional forwarding is the most radical method. As soon as someone dials your number, the operator's network instantly forwards the call to the specified number without even trying to find your device. Your phone may not ring or vibrate at all at this moment. This is an ideal option if you know that you will be out of reach for a long time.
In contrast, conditional forwarding works only when certain events occur. The network first tries to reach you. If the phone is turned off (unreachable condition) or you hang up the call (busy condition), only then the call moves on. This is a softer scenario, allowing you to answer calls if you are in the network area, but at the same time insuring against missed calls in force majeure situations.
⚠️ Attention: When using unconditional forwarding, your phone may not display information about the incoming call in the call log, since the connection is set directly between the caller and the new number.
There is also a nuance with the waiting time for the “If there is no answer” type. By default, operators set a timer of 15 to 30 seconds before redirecting. It is often impossible to change this time using standard Android tools; you need to use advanced USSD codes or contact the operator's support service.
How to change the waiting time before forwarding?
To change the timeout, use the extended code: *61*number#*time#. For example, 61+79990000000#*20# will set the wait to 20 seconds. However, support for this feature may vary depending on your carrier.
Tariffication and cost of services from operators
Many users mistakenly believe that call forwarding is a completely free service. In fact, the financial terms depend on your mobile operator's tariff plan and the type of redirection. It is important to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises on your bill.
As a rule, activation and use of the forwarding function itself is free. However, if the call is forwarded, charges may apply for an outgoing call from your number to the forwarding number. This applies to cases when the call is forwarded to a number of another operator or to a number in another region (roaming).
- 💰 Redirection within the network of one operator is often free or charged at internal rates.
- 🌍 Forwarding to numbers of other operators is paid as an outgoing call at your rate.
- ✈️ In international roaming, forwarding can be very expensive, since the call goes through the network of a foreign partner.
Separately, it is worth mentioning forwarding to voicemail. For most major operators, this service is included in the basic package and is not charged additionally, or costs a symbolic amount per day. However, when abroad, even recording a message on an answering machine can be considered an incoming call while roaming, which entails costs.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff rules of telecom operators change frequently. Before activating forwarding to numbers of other operators or while roaming, be sure to check the current conditions in your personal account or the official application of your operator.
Problems during setup and ways to solve them
Despite the simplicity of the function, users often encounter errors when setting it up. The most common problem is a "Request Error" or "Request Failed" message when you try to enable forwarding through the Android menu. This may be caused by a temporary failure in the operator's network or incorrect operation of the Phone application.
If the standard settings do not work, try clearing the cache of the Phone application. To do this, go to Settings → Applications → Phone → Memory → Clear cache. After this, reboot your device and try again. In some cases, temporarily removing the SIM card and installing it back helps, which forces the phone to re-register on the network and update the service profile.
Another common reason for failure is blocking the service by the operator. Some plans, especially enterprise or archive plans, may have restrictions on the use of forwarding. Also, the service may be blocked if there are not enough funds in the account to pay for potential outgoing calls when forwarding.
Codes for checking the status:#21# - Checking the status of unconditional forwarding
#62# - Checking the status of forwarding when unavailable
#61# - Checking the forwarding status if there is no response
Use these codes to make sure that the service is really active or, conversely, disabled. If the phone shows that forwarding is enabled, but calls are not going through, the problem may be on the side of the receiving number (for example, it is blocked or does not accept calls).
☑️ Diagnosing problems with forwarding
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will my phone ring when forwarding is enabled?
It depends on the type of forwarding. When unconditional redirection occurs, your phone will not ring, the call will immediately go to another number. When conditional (if busy, unavailable, no answer) your phone will ring, and only if you do not answer or cannot accept the call, it will be redirected.
Is it possible to set up call forwarding to a landline number?
Yes, technically this is possible. You need to enter the number in international format (for example +7495.. for Moscow). However, make sure that your tariff plan allows you to make calls to landline numbers, as this will be charged as an outgoing call.
Why does forwarding not work in roaming?
There may be restrictions on the part of the operator or the receiving network in roaming. Additionally, roaming forwarding can be very expensive. It is often necessary to pre-activate the “Roaming Forwarding” service through your personal account or support service before traveling abroad.
How can I find out if I have forwarding enabled if I don’t remember?
Enter the code #002# and press call. If the service was active, you will receive a message indicating that it was successfully disabled. If the service was not active, the system will report that forwarding is not installed. You can also use codes #21#, #61#, #62# to check the statuses of specific types of forwarding.
Does forwarding affect the quality of communication?
Forwarding itself does not degrade the quality of communication. However, if a call is routed across multiple networks or in poor coverage conditions, connection delays or echoes may occur. In most cases, the subscriber who calls you will not notice the difference.