Have you ever noticed that your calls go to voicemail or do not arrive at all on your phone, although it is turned on? Often the reason for this behavior is the activated function call forwarding. This option is useful when you are busy or out of range, but sometimes it turns on accidentally or remains active after changing the tariff. Owners of smartphones based on Android face this problem regularly, especially after moving to another region or changing SIM cards.
The process of deactivating this function may seem confusing due to differences in the interfaces of different manufacturers. However, there are several universal ways to regain control over incoming calls. We will look at all methods: from using hidden USSD codes to deep settings in the system menu of your device. Understanding how call routing works will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and missing important contacts.
In this article we will analyze in detail each step necessary to completely disable all types of forwarding. You'll learn why settings can reset on their own and what to do if standard methods don't work. The information will be useful for both beginners and experienced users who want to optimize the performance of their mobile communications.
Checking the current forwarding status via USSD codes
The fastest way to find out whether call forwarding is active on your number is to use special operator commands. These codes work on any phone, even if the screen is broken or the sensor is not responding, since they are processed on the network side. To check the current status of all types of call transfers, you need to dial the combination #002# and press the call button. The system will instantly respond with a message indicating whether the services were active and whether they were successfully disabled.
If you want to check the status of specific types of forwarding separately, there are more detailed commands. For example, the code #21# will show whether unconditional forwarding is enabled (when calls go away immediately without waiting for an answer). Command #61# will display forwarding settings if there is no answer, and *#62# if the subscriber is unavailable. Using these commands allows you to accurately diagnose the problem without delving into the depths of the smartphone menu.
⚠️ Attention: Some virtual operators or corporate tariffs may block the execution of USSD commands. If, after entering the code, you see a connection error or the message “Failed to complete the request,” try using the settings in the phone menu or contact your operator’s support service.
After completing the test, the system often automatically offers to disable the service if it was active. However, for a guaranteed result, it is better to use the full reset command. Enter ##002# and press call. This is a universal command for all major telecom operators that will forcefully cancel all types of forwarding, including voice calls, SMS and faxes (if supported). You will receive a confirmation message that the operation was successful.
Save the code ##002# in your notes or create a speed dial on the main screen - this will save time in the future if forwarding is turned on again by accident.
Disable the function through the Android system settings menu
For those who prefer a visual interface, smartphone manufacturers have built in a convenient call management section. The path to these settings may vary slightly depending on your device model and shell version One UI, MIUI or ColorOS. Typically, you need to open the Phone app, tap the three dots in the corner of the screen, and select Settings. Next, look for the “Call Accounts” or “Advanced Settings” section.
Inside this section you will find the “Call Forwarding” item. When you click on it, the system may ask for confirmation or show a list of SIM cards if you have a dual-SIM device. Select the desired SIM card and wait for the statuses to load from the operator. Here you will see four main options: “Always forward”, “If busy”, “If no answer” and “If unavailable”. Opposite each item, the number to which the call is sent, or the inscription “Voicemail” will be indicated.
To disable the function, click on the active item and select the “Disable” or “Turn off” option. The interface may prompt you to enter a phone number for a new forwarding - in this case, simply ignore the input field and look for a cancel or deactivate button. The process may take a few seconds as the phone sends a request to the cellular company's server. Make sure that you have a stable network signal when performing this operation.
☑️ Checking menu settings
Sometimes after a manual shutdown in the menu, the status is not updated immediately. This is normal behavior on some networks where data updates are delayed. If you have turned off forwarding, but when you re-enter the menu it shows up as active again, try rebooting your device. This will force the phone to re-register on the network and synchronize current service profiles.
The Android system menu sends the same requests as USSD codes, but does it in the background, providing the user with a convenient graphical interface for control.
Disablement specifics on devices from different manufacturers
Although the core of the system Android is the same for everyone, manufacturers often change the location of the controls. On smartphones Samsung the path usually looks like this: Phone → Three dots → Settings → Additional services → Voice call forwarding. Owners of devices Xiaomi or Poco should look for this section along the path: Settings → Applications → System application settings → Phone → Call forwarding. This complication of the path is due to the MIUI security policy.
Devices from Google Pixel and other phones with “pure” Android have a more straightforward structure. Here you just need to go to the phone application, open the settings and immediately see the “Call Forwarding” item. On some models Huawei i Honor this function may be hidden inside the “Mobile network” section in the general system settings, and not in the dialer application itself. If you can't find the item you need, use the settings search by entering the word "forwarding."
The differences in interfaces can be confusing, especially if you recently changed phone brands. The essence remains the same - you need to find a menu that controls the rules for processing the incoming signal before the phone starts ringing.
In rare cases, especially on custom firmware, the forwarding control point can be completely removed by the developers. If you are faced with such a situation, the only working option is to use the USSD codes described in the previous section. They work at the communication protocol level and do not depend on the presence of a specific item in the menu of your smartphone.
Table of main USSD codes for call management
For the convenience of saving information, we have prepared a summary table with the most important commands. These codes are universal and suitable for most telecom operators in the CIS and Europe. Use them for quick diagnosis and management of services without the need to enter complex settings menus.
| Action | USSD command | Description of the result |
|---|---|---|
| Disable all types | ##002# |
Full reset of all forwarding settings |
| Check status (all) | #002# |
Shows whether any forwarding is active |
| Check unconditional | *#21# |
Finds out where calls go immediately upon arrival |
| Check when busy | *#67# |
Shows the forwarding number if the line is busy |
| Disconnect when busy | #67# |
Cancels forwarding only for a busy line |
Please note that after entering the command, the result is displayed as a pop-up message. If the message does not appear within 10-15 seconds, the network may be overloaded or the command may have been entered incorrectly. In this case, check the correct symbols and make sure you are in an area with good signal reception. You should not enter commands in international roaming without first checking the tariffs, as some requests may be paid.
Why may codes not work?
Sometimes telecom operators change short numbers or block certain USSD requests for tariffs without a subscription fee. If the code does not work, try adding an asterisk at the end or contact your operator.
Troubleshooting problems when forwarding does not turn off
The situation when you have followed all the instructions, but calls continue to be redirected, occurs quite often. This may be due to data caching on the operator's side or a conflict in software settings. First of all, try putting your smartphone into airplane mode for 10-15 seconds and then turning it off. This will forcefully re-register the device on the network and update the service profile.
If restarting the network does not help, the problem may lie in third-party applications. Some call recording apps, spam blockers or virtual PBXs have their own forwarding settings that may conflict with the system ones. Check your installed telephony-related applications and temporarily disable them. You should also make sure that the “Voicemail” service is not activated on your phone through the operator’s application, which can simulate forwarding.
⚠️ Attention: If forwarding turns on automatically immediately after turning it off, this may indicate that the device is infected with malware. Conduct a full scan of your smartphone with an antivirus and remove suspicious applications not received from the official store Google Play.
In the most difficult cases, when nothing helps, you need to contact the phone shop or support service of your operator. Inform the manager that you cannot disable the service through the menu and USSD codes. The specialist will be able to check the settings of your number directly in the operator’s database and forcefully reset all parameters. Sometimes it is necessary to replace the SIM card if the chip is damaged and does not process service messages correctly.
Before visiting the operator, take screenshots of all disconnection attempts and errors - this will speed up the process of diagnosing the problem by a technical support specialist.
The influence of Do Not Disturb modes and traffic saving
Frequently users confuse call forwarding with other call blocking functions. Do Not Disturb mode (Do Not Disturb) does not redirect calls to another number, but simply mutes sound and vibration. However, in the settings of this mode, you can set a rule under which calls from all but selected contacts will be rejected. To the caller, this may appear as if the call is being forwarded to voicemail, when in fact the call is simply dropped.
To check these settings, go to section Settings → Sound and vibration → Do not disturb. Make sure the mode is disabled or configured correctly. Also check your incoming call blocking settings in your phone app. The blacklist and anti-spam functions can create the illusion of a network failure when the subscriber hears beeps or is immediately sent to an answering machine.
Bandwidth saving and data in the background rarely affect voice calls, but in some cases, with a poor signal, the phone may try redirect the call via Wi-Fi Calling if this feature is not configured correctly. If you use Wi-Fi calling, try temporarily disabling this option in the SIM card settings and check if the problem with unwanted call routing goes away.
Why does forwarding turn on itself after a reboot?
This may be due to synchronization with the operator's cloud account or a glitch in the SIM card profile. Try removing the SIM card, cleaning the contacts and inserting it back. If the problem persists, the operator will need to reissue the card.
Is it possible to set up forwarding only for SMS?
Yes, most operators allow you to set up forwarding separately for voice calls, SMS and faxes. Use specific USSD codes or settings in the operator’s personal account to manage each type of traffic separately.
Does the operator charge a fee for disabling forwarding?
The disabling procedure itself is usually free. However, if you are roaming when checking the status (entering codes), standard rates for outgoing calls or service messages may be charged according to your tariff plan.
How to find out which number is being forwarded to?
Use the code *#21# for unconditional forwarding or go to settings calls in the phone menu. There will be a specific number indicated to which your calls are currently being forwarded.
Does a low battery affect the forwarding operation?
No, forwarding is configured on the telecom operator's side. Even if your phone is completely turned off or discharged, calls will be redirected according to the last saved settings on the network.