Modern Huawei smartphones running the EMUI or HarmonyOS shell have extensive functionality for managing voice calls. One of the most popular features is call forwarding, which allows you to redirect incoming calls to another number or to voicemail. This is an indispensable tool for those who are often outside the network coverage area, sit in meetings or use several SIM cards in different devices.
Activation of this service can be performed in several ways: through the standard phone settings menu, using special USSD codes or through the personal account of the mobile operator. Users often find it difficult to find the desired item in the menu, since the interface may differ slightly depending on the firmware version. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the available methods for setting up call routing.
The correct configuration of call parameters will help you never miss an important conversation, even if the main device is turned off or in airplane mode. Below we will look at the technical nuances of this function, the features of interaction with the operator’s network and possible restrictions imposed by the tariff plan.
Preparing a SIM card and checking service support
Before you start setting up call forwarding on your Huawei, you need to make sure that the service is active on the side of the mobile operator. Most major providers provide this feature by default, but in some cases it may be disabled or require a separate payment. Make sure your account balance is positive, as forwarded calls are often charged as outgoing calls from your number to the forwarding number.
Insert the SIM card into the slot and wait until it is fully registered with the network. If you are using a dual-SIM device, please note that the settings are applied individually for each card. You will need to select the active line for which you plan to configure traffic routing. Check the signal level, as if the reception is weak, commands may not go through.
It is also worth considering that some corporate tariffs or specific service conditions may block the ability of the user to independently change forwarding parameters. In such cases, changing settings through the phone menu will not be available, and you will need to contact the operator's support service.
⚠️ Attention: Forwarding calls abroad or to numbers of other operators can cost significantly more than regular calls. Before activation, check the cost of a minute of conversation in roaming or interconnection in the tariff plan of your operator.
Setting up call forwarding through the EMUI system menu
The most convenient and intuitive way to manage calls is to use the built-in interface of the operating system. The algorithm of actions may vary slightly depending on the version of the shell EMUI or Magic UI, but the general logic remains the same for all devices of the brand.
First, open the standard “Phone” application, which is usually located at the bottom of the main screen. Click on the menu button, which often looks like three dots in the corner or an icon with a picture of a person. Select “Settings” from the drop-down list. Next, go to the section responsible for managing calls.
In the menu that opens, find the “Call Forwarding” subsection. The system will automatically request data from the network, which may take a few seconds. Once loaded, you will see a list of available routing options. Here you can activate forwarding for all calls or set up specific scenarios.
- 📞 Always forward: all incoming calls are instantly transferred to the specified number, your phone will not ring.
- 📶 If unavailable: the call is forwarded if the phone is turned off, out of network area or in airplane mode.
- ⏳ If not answering: forwarding works if you do not pick up after a certain number of rings.
- 📵 If busy: the call is transferred to another number when you are already talking to someone else.
Select the desired forwarding type and enter the phone number to which calls will be received. Confirm the action by pressing the power button. The service status will be displayed next to the menu item. To disable the function, just return to the same menu and click “Disable”.
☑️ Check before setting
Using USSD codes for quick activation
For experienced users or in situations where the phone menu does not work correctly, there is an alternative method of setting up via USSD requests. This method is universal and works on any mobile device, regardless of model or software version. Commands are entered directly into the dialing field.
Each type of forwarding has its own unique code. To activate the function, you need to dial a combination, add a phone number and complete the entry with a pound sign. The system will instantly send a request to the operator and return a response indicating the success or error of the operation. This is a quick way to change settings without diving deep into the menu.
Below is a table with the main codes that are supported by most telecom operators in the CIS and Europe. Please note that instead of the number characters, you must substitute the recipient's real telephone address.
| Forwarding type | Activation code | Disconnect code | Status check code |
|---|---|---|---|
| All calls | *21*number# |
#21# |
*#21# |
| If unavailable | *62*number# |
#62# |
*#62# |
| If not answering | *61*number# |
#61# |
*#61# |
| If busy | *67*number# |
#67# |
*#67# |
After entering the command, press the call button. A notification from the operator will appear on the screen indicating that the service has been activated or deactivated. If you receive a code execution error message, check that you entered the number correctly and whether your tariff supports the service.
What to do if the code does not work?
If the USSD code returns an error, try adding the country code before the number (for example, +7 instead of 8). Also make sure that you do not use special characters other than the asterisk and hash. In rare cases, the operator blocks manual entry of codes, then only a call to support will help.
Setting up features on dual-SIM devices
Owners of smartphones Huawei with support for two SIM cards should take into account that the voicemail and forwarding settings are applied separately for each slot. When you try to change parameters in the general menu, the system may ask you to clarify which line you want to configure.
The dialing interface or call settings often have tabs or switches labeled “SIM 1” and “SIM 2”. Switching between them changes the context of the settings. It is important not to mix up the cards, so as not to accidentally redirect calls from a work SIM card to a personal number.
If one of the SIM cards is used only for the Internet, and the other for calls, it is logical to set up forwarding only on the voice line. However, if both cards are active for voice, it is recommended to check the service status for each of them separately using the methods described above.
When using the Smart Forwarding feature, if provided by your model, the phone may automatically offer to redirect calls from the main card to the secondary card when there is no signal. Check for such options in the advanced network settings.
Eliminating common errors and connection problems
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users sometimes encounter a situation where forwarding does not turn on or does not work correctly. Often the problem lies not in the smartphone, but in the network settings or a app conflict. If the activation button is inactive (gray), this may mean that the phone cannot connect to the operator's switching center to obtain current service statuses.
Try rebooting the device. This simple action often helps restore a lost network session and update the service profile on the SIM card. Also make sure that there are no third-party calling applications installed on your phone, which can intercept control of call functions and block system settings.
In some cases, resetting the network settings helps. Go to Settings → System and updates → Reset → Reset network settings. This operation will delete saved Wi-Fi hotspots and Bluetooth pairs, but will restore the correct mobile communication settings.
⚠️ Attention: If the problem persists after resetting the network settings, remove the SIM card and insert it into another phone. If forwarding does not work there either, then the problem is on the operator’s side, and you need to write to technical support.
Another reason for the failure may be an outdated version of the basic radio modulation. Check for system updates in the Settings → System and updates → Software updatesection. Manufacturers regularly release patches that correct communication errors with specific operators.
If forwarding is enabled, but calls do not go through, check whether the number to which the forwarding is being made is not blocked. Also make sure that the receiving number does not have its own forwarding enabled, which creates a vicious circle.
Security and cost control when forwarding
Using the call forwarding function requires careful attention to financial security. Remember that an incoming call is free for you, but the moment of forwarding turns it into an outgoing call from your number to the number of the subscriber to whom you forwarded the call. Payment is made according to your tariff per outgoing minute.
You should be especially careful about forwarding in roaming. If you are abroad and redirect calls to a number in your home region, double rates may apply: for incoming roaming calls and for outgoing international calls. This may result in unexpected costs.
Regularly check the status of active redirects. Attackers who have gained access to the phone can configure all calls to be redirected to their number in order to intercept confirmation codes from banks and services. Periodic code checking *#21# will help identify unauthorized activity.
- 💰 Control the balance: monitor charges after activating the service.
- 🔒 Protection of codes: do not share USSD service management codes with unauthorized persons.
- 👁️ Visual control: the handset icon with an arrow in the status bar signals active forwarding.
For complete security, it is recommended to disable all types of forwarding before sending the phone for repair or when selling the device. Resetting to factory settings usually clears these parameters, but a manual check will not be superfluous.
Forwarding is a paid service (outgoing call), which requires constant monitoring of the activation status to avoid unnecessary expenses and data leakage.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Does it affect forwarding to sound quality?
No, sound quality depends solely on the operator’s network and the receiving device. Forwarding only changes the connection route without processing voice traffic with additional codecs on the sender's side.
Is it possible to forward calls to a landline number?
Yes, most operators allow you to set up forwarding to any phone numbers, including landline phones. The main thing is that the format for entering the number is correct (with a city or country code).
Why is the forwarding button in the menu gray and cannot be pressed?
This usually means there is no connection with the operator’s settings server. Check the network signal, try entering the USSD code manually or reboot your phone. Also, the problem may be in the SIM card itself.
Will the subscriber know that the call is forwarded?
Standard forwarding does not specifically notify the caller, but the duration of the beeps before the connection may differ. If a call goes to voicemail, it's obvious. When forwarding to another phone, the subscriber will simply hear beeps and the voice of the person who answered the phone.
Is the forwarding reset when changing the phone?
No, the forwarding setting is stored on the side of the mobile operator in the profile of your SIM card. If you move the SIM card to another device, the call forwarding rule will continue to apply until you cancel it.