How to set up call forwarding on Android

Publish date: 2023-05-29

Are you looking to set up call forwarding on Android? It’s possible to reroute incoming calls to a secondary number, which could be a valuable feature for various reasons.

I use call forwarding every time I travel. Setting up call forwarding on Android helps me avoid call roaming fees, because I can reroute all calls to my home phone, Google Voice number, or a local number. Other people use it to avoid being bothered during vacations. Whatever your reason may be, we are here to help you set up call forwarding on Android. Shall we jump right in?

Also read: The 10 best free calls apps for Android

Editor’s note: Not all devices have the same settings and menus. The Android UI changes from manufacturer to manufacturer, which means some steps might differ, depending on which phone you are using. For this content, we’ll give you instructions using a Pixel 4a with 5G running stock Android 12.

Quick answer

You can set up call forwarding on Android using multiple methods. The easiest one is opening the Phone app and going to Menu > Settings > Call forwarding. Make your selection, enter the number you want to forward calls to, and hit Turn on.

Get to your favorite method

How to set up call forwarding on Android using the settings

Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Android has created its method for forwarding calls. It can be found right on the Settings app, and works like a charm. It’s also easy to edit on the fly, making it a very convenient option.

Set up call forwarding through the Settings

  • Open the Phone app.
  • Hit the 3-dot menu button.
  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap on Call forwarding.
  • You will see multiple options, including:
  • Always forward: All calls go to your desired secondary number.
  • When busy: Calls go to your secondary number of choice when you are on another call.
  • Call forwarding when unanswered: Calls go to a secondary number when you don’t take a call.
  • When unreached: Calls go to a secondary number when your phone is off, in airplane mode, or has no signal.
  • After choosing one of the listed options, go ahead and set the forwarding number.
  • Select Enable, Turn on, or OK.

    • To cancel call forwarding on Android, go back to the same settings and turn off the option.

    More: How to forward a text message

    How to set up call forwarding on Android using dial codes

    Alternatively, you can do things the old-fashioned way and use dial codes to set it all up manually.

    Codes

    How to use dial codes

  • Open the Phone app.
  • Dial the code, followed by the number you wish to forward calls to, followed by the # sign.
  • Example: *21*123-456-7890#.
  • Press Send, Call, or whichever action button your device uses.

    • Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

    We can’t deny Google’s settings can be a bit confusing, and let’s not even mention the code system, which is even more convoluted. Some people might prefer a more organized and intuitive way to set up call forwarding on Android. Plenty of options exist in the Google Play Store, but we like the simplicity the app Easy Call Forwarding provides.

    Next: How to tether your Android phone to a computer

    One of the app’s main benefits is that you can set call forwarding more granularly. For example, you can configure different settings for each SIM card if you have a dual-SIM smartphone. You also get access to a nifty widget that allows you to turn call forwarding on and off quickly.

    How to use Easy Call Forwarding

  • Download Easy Call Forwarding from the Google Play Store.
  • Open the app.
  • You’ll be asked to grant permissions. Tap on Grant Permissions.
  • Hit Allow.
  • Select Configure. Enter de destination number and select your provider. Then hit Save.
  • Toggle call forwarding on where it says forwarding is disabled.

    • FAQs

    Are there any limitations to call forwarding?

    There are some, yes. Usually, call forwarding won’t work if you’re trying to send calls to a number outside of your own country. You’ll have to find an international call routing service to do that.

    Does call forwarding continue working if I switch devices?

    Not usually, especially if you’re using Settings or an app to set up call forwarding. You’ll likely lose the changes if you switch devices. Sometimes the changes stick around when you use dial codes, but even these fail most times.

    Does call forwarding cost money?

    Make sure to look into your plan’s details, as some older plans can still have a fee for call forwarding features. This is no longer common, but it can happen, and it doesn’t hurt to check. Additionally, any call forwarding service is pretty much taking an incoming call and making an outgoing call, so you will use up your minutes accordingly if you don’t have unlimited calling.

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