The voice mail or answering machine function on MTS is a convenient tool for those who are often outside the network coverage area or cannot answer the call right now. However, for many subscribers this service becomes a source of irritation, especially if it was activated accidentally or charges for unnecessary options. The problem is relevant for owners of smartphones based on Android, since the phone's system settings often conflict with the operator's network services.
The deactivation process is not complicated, but requires an understanding of the difference between the settings of the device itself and the SIM card parameters. Often, users try to disable the function only in the smartphone menu, leaving the service active on the side of the communication provider. In this article, we will analyze all available methods, from quick USSD requests to deep settings through the official application, so that you can fully control your incoming calls.
It is worth noting that the menu interface may vary slightly depending on the version operating system and model of your gadget. However, the operating logic remains the same for the entire ecosystem Google Android. We will consider both standard solutions and nuances that arise when using specific tariff plans or corporate connections.
Disconnection via USSD commands: the fastest method
The most efficient way to remove an answering machine is to use special service codes. This method does not require an Internet connection and works even in roaming if outgoing calls are allowed. For the basic “Voicemail” service on MTS, there is a universal combination that instantly sends a request to the operator’s server.
You need to open the “Phone” application and go to dialing mode. Enter the command *111*32# and press the call button. A pop-up notification from the MTS network will appear on the screen, confirming the successful deactivation of the service. If you are using an extended version of the Autoresponder service, which allows you to record your own greetings, the code may differ.
⚠️ Attention: After entering the command, wait for a confirmation SMS message. Sometimes the delay can be up to several minutes due to network load, so do not try to enter the code again immediately.
There is also an alternative code *111*911#that opens the service management menu. In this menu, you can visually select the option to disable voicemail, which is convenient for those who are afraid of making mistakes when entering numbers. Remember that some old tariff plans may have their own specific commands, which are best clarified in the help.
Save the main MTS USSD commands in your phone notes to have quick access to them even without the Internet.
Managing the service through the “My MTS” application
Modern and most visual way service control is the use of the operator’s official mobile application. Here you not only disable the answering machine, but also see your connection history and billing. This is an ideal option for those who want to make sure that excess funds will not be debited from their balance in the future.
After logging into the application My MTS go to the “Services” section. Here is a complete list of all active options on your number. Find the “Calls” or “Services” category, where the “Voicemail” item is usually located. By clicking on it, you will see a “Disable” button or a service status switch.
The application interface may be updated, so the location of the buttons sometimes changes. If you do not find a service in the main list, use the search by name within the application. It is important to check the "Archive Services" section, as there may be hidden connected options that are not displayed in the main menu.
- 📱 Open the application's main menu and select the "Services" tab.
- 🔍 Use the search bar to enter the request "Mail" or "Answering Machine."
- 🚫 Click on the active service and confirm the deactivation action in the window that appears.
- ✅ Check the “Connected services” section after 5-10 minutes to confirm the changes.
The advantage of using the application is the ability to set up call forwarding. Sometimes the answering machine works because forwarding to a service number is enabled. In the call settings section inside the application, you can check and disable all types of forwarding, which guarantees complete silence for missed calls.
Setting forwarding in the Android menu
In addition to the settings on the operator’s side, it is critical to check the settings of the smartphone itself. The system Android has a built-in call forwarding mechanism, which may duplicate or conflict with the functions of the answering machine. If forwarding to an MTS voicemail number is set here, then disabling the service on the server may not work correctly.
Go to the phone settings and find the section responsible for calls. The path may differ: on pure Android this is usually Settings → Applications → Phone → Call settings, but on shells like MIUI or One UI the item is located right in the main settings menu in the “SIM cards and mobile networks” section. Select “Call forwarding.”
You will see four main conditions for forwarding: always, if busy, if not responding and if unavailable. To completely disable the answering machine, you need to check all four points. If the forwarding field contains a number starting with +7980 or a short service number, delete it or select the “Disable” option.
☑️ Checking call settings
⚠️ Attention: On some phone models, forwarding settings may be hidden or inactive if The SIM card does not support this function in the current network mode. In this case, switch the network mode to 3G/LTE and try again.
After making changes, be sure to restart the device. This is necessary for the phone to re-register in the MTS network with updated parameters. Without a reboot, the old settings profile can be saved in the radio module cache, and calls will still go to the answering machine.
Web version of your personal account and alternative methods
If you don’t have a smartphone with the application installed, you can use a browser on a computer or any other device. The personal account on the MTS website provides the same service management capabilities as the mobile application, but with a wider screen and user-friendly interface.
Login to your personal account using your phone number and password from SMS. Go to the "Services and Options" section. Here you can manage not only your autoresponder, but also other paid subscriptions. Find the “Voicemail” service and click the deactivate button. The system will request confirmation via a code from SMS.
It is also possible to disable the service by calling the support service. This is a good option if automatic methods don't work or you encounter a technical glitch. The operator will check the status of your number and forcefully disable the service on the network side.
| Disconnection method | Necessary conditions | Execution speed | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| USSD command | Balance > 0 rub. | Instantly | High |
| My MTS application | Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile) | 1-2 minutes | Very high |
| Android settings | Access to phone menu | 3-5 minutes | Medium (depending on the model) |
| Call operator | Ability to talk | 5-10 minutes | Maximum |
The combination of disabling the service on the operator’s side and checking the forwarding settings on the phone gives a 100% guarantee of removing the answering machine.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where, it would seem, all actions have been completed, but the answering machine continues to work. This may be due to a delay in updating information in the operator's network or caching of data on the device. In such cases, a more in-depth approach to diagnosis is required.
Try to remove the SIM card and insert it back. This will force the phone to go through the network registration procedure again. If the problem persists, check whether the “Virtual Secretary” service or similar options are activated, which may masquerade as a regular answering machine.
Another reason may be a conflict between two SIM cards. If you have a dual-SIM smartphone, make sure that you change the settings specifically for the MTS SIM card on which the service is activated. In the call settings menu, you can often choose which SIM card to configure at the moment.
What to do if the service does not turn off?
If none of the methods helped, the number may be blocking service changes. Contact the MTS communication salon with a passport to force a reset of the service settings on the operator's side.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will they charge money for disabling the answering machine?
No, the procedure itself for disabling the “Voicemail” or “Answering Machine” service on MTS is free. However, if you have a negative balance, some service commands may not work until you top up your account.
Why did the answering machine turn on by itself?
This often happens when you change your tariff plan or after participating in promotions, where the service is activated automatically for a trial period. Also, the reason may be accidentally pressing a key combination in the phone menu.
Is it possible to record your greeting after disconnecting?
No, the ability to record your own greeting is only available when the “Advanced Answering Machine” service is active. After disabling the service, the caller will hear a standard operator message or beeps.
Does deactivation affect forwarding to another number?
No, disabling voicemail does not affect the settings for forwarding to other mobile or landline numbers. These functions are controlled separately in the call settings menu.
How to check whether the service is disabled?
Ask someone to call you and not pick up the phone. If after several beeps the call is dropped or the usual signal “the subscriber does not answer” without going to a voice message, then the service has been disabled successfully.