How to Forward Calls on iPhone, Android, and Landline Phones

Picture this: you miss an urgent call because you step away for a moment. Or your phone is on silent while you focus on work. It happens more often than you think. Staying reachable on different devices is not always simple.

That’s where call forwarding comes in. It sends your calls to another number so you never lose touch. Whether you use an iPhone, Android, or a landline, you can keep every call within reach.

In this guide, you will learn how to set up call forwarding step by step. You will also find solutions to common issues and discover new ways to manage forwarded calls. Once you know the process, you can stay connected anytime, anywhere.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, here is the list of things you are going to need.

• Your phone (iPhone, Android, or landline).
• The phone number where you want calls to go.
• A stable internet connection for modern solutions.
• Your account login details for any specific phone services.

TL/DR Section

1. iPhone: Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. Toggle ON, enter a number. This sets up basic call forwarding on the iPhone.
2. Android: Phone app > Settings (three dots/gear) > Call forwarding. Choose type, enter number. This handles Android call forwarding.
3. Landline: Dial *72, then the forwarding number. This activates home phone call forwarding.

What is Call Forwarding?

Call forwarding sends calls from one phone number to another. It’s like telling your calls, “Go here instead!” Sometimes people call this “call divert” or “divert calls.” It helps redirect calls when you cannot answer. The meaning is simple: rerouting an incoming call. This process ensures important calls are not missed.

Why Use It?

People use it for many reasons. If you work from home, you can forward cell phone calls to your landline. When you are on vacation, you can forward calls to a coworker. If your phone is busy, call forwarding ensures you do not miss important incoming calls.

It keeps customers happy by answering every call. You can divert phone calls easily. Businesses use it to manage customer service. Individuals use it for personal convenience, ensuring every phone call reaches them.

Different Ways to Forward Calls:

There are different ways to forward calls. Let’s discuss some of them:

Always Forward (Unconditional Call Forwarding): Every single incoming call goes to the new number. This means all calls are diverted without ringing your primary phone. This is often called “all call divert.”

Forward Only Sometimes (Conditional Call Forwarding):

1. When Busy: If you are already on a call, the incoming call forwards. This ensures callers do not get a busy tone.
2. When No One Answers: If your phone rings too long, the call diverts. This is commonly used to send calls to voicemail or another assistant.
3. When Phone is Off (Unreachable): If your phone has no signal or is turned off, calls still go through. This is voice call forwarding when unreachable, preventing missed calls due to network issues.

How to Forward Calls on Your iPhone

About iPhone Forwarding:

Your iPhone can do this, but your phone company must allow it. For some forwarding types, you might need special codes from your phone company. iPhone call forwarding is a key feature for many users. It helps to ensure that all incoming calls reach you.

The call forwarding setting on the iPhone is user-friendly. However, its full capabilities depend on your cellular provider. Understanding how to call forward on an iPhone involves knowing these limitations.

Steps to Forward All Calls:

Here are the steps to forward calls on an iPhone. These instructions focus on how to forward calls from one iPhone to another, or any other number.

• Open your “Settings” app. This is the first step to accessing any phone configurations.
• Find and tap “Phone.” This section manages all call-related options for your device.
• Tap “Call Forwarding.”
• After selecting “Phone,” you see a list of options. “Call Forwarding” is usually near the top of this list.
• Turn the “Call Forwarding” switch ON.
• When the switch is green, it means call forwarding is active. Your phone is now ready to divert calls.
• Type in the phone number where you want calls to go.
• After entering the number, the phone saves it automatically.

This is how to forward a call on an iPhone. You have successfully set up call forwarding to another number.

How to Stop Forwarding Calls on iPhone:

To cancel call forwarding,

• Go back to “Settings” > “Phone” > “Call Forwarding.”
• Turn the “Call Forwarding” switch OFF. This disables call forwarding.
• You simply tap the green switch to turn it off.

This action immediately stops calls from being diverted. Rechecking the call forwarding setting confirms it is off.

Things to Know About iPhone Forwarding:

Special forwarding needs codes. It might cost extra money, especially for international calls. Always check with your provider for call forwarding services and any associated costs.

Some plans include these features, while others charge per minute. It is essential to understand your specific agreement to avoid unexpected charges. This also applies to things like call waiting.

How to Forward Calls on Your Android Phone

About Android Forwarding:

Android phones often come with more built-in options. The steps can look a bit different on various models. Android call forwarding offers flexibility. You can set it up with ease.

This includes how to call forward on Android for various scenarios. The specific location of the call forwarding settings can vary by phone manufacturer and Android version. Samsung, Google Pixel, and other brands might have slightly different menu paths.

However, the core functionality remains similar across devices, allowing you to forward calls to another number.

Steps to Forward Calls Using Your Phone App:

Here are the steps for call forwarding on Android. This explains how to forward calls from one cell phone to another using the phone’s built-in features.

1. Open your “Phone” app (where you make calls). This is usually the green or blue icon with a phone receiver. It is where you handle all your phone calls.
2. Tap the “three dots” or “gear” icon for “Settings”. This icon is typically in the top right or bottom right corner of the screen. It opens the phone’s calling features menu.
3. Look for “Calling accounts,” “Supplementary services,” or “Call forwarding.” Tap it. The exact wording depends on your Android phone’s model and software version. You might need to scroll down to find this option.
4. Tap “Call forwarding.” You will see four choices. Pick one.

* Always forward: Send all calls. This is how to activate call forwarding for all calls. This option is a total call divert.

* Forward when busy: Send calls if you are on another call. This handles the busy tone and ensures the caller does not hear it.

* Forward when unanswered: Send calls if you do not pick up. This redirects calls after a set number of rings.

* Forward when unreachable: Send calls if your phone is off or has no signal. This is crucial for maintaining connectivity even in poor service areas.

5. Type the phone number for forwarding for each choice you pick. Each chosen forwarding option will prompt you to enter the specific phone number.
6. Tap “Confirm” or “Enable”. This is how to call forward on Android. Your call forwarding settings are now active.

Using Codes to Forward Calls on Android (Old Way):

You can also use special codes like *72 (to turn on) and *73 (to turn off). Dial these codes from your phone app. These codes might change what you set up in the phone’s menu. *72 call forwarding and *73 call forwarding are common in many regions.

These are often considered Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) codes. They provide a quick way to activate or cancel call forwarding without navigating through menus. How to do call forwarding with codes is still relevant for many users. To check the call forwarding status with codes, you can use other specific codes, which will be discussed later.

How to Stop Forwarding Calls on Android:

Go back to the call forwarding settings in your Phone app. Turn off each option you set. If you used codes, dial *73. This will disable call forwarding on your Android phone.

It is important to remember which method you used to activate call forwarding to properly disable it. Disabling ensures incoming calls ring on your primary device again.

Things to Know About Android Forwarding:

Menus can look different on various Android phones. Your phone company can sometimes stop you from using these options. It might cost more money. It does not let you separate work and personal calls if you use one number.

Check your call forwarding settings regularly. Some Android devices might also offer options like “forward calls to another number without the phone” if connected to a cellular network account online.

How to Forward Calls on Landline Phones

About Landline Forwarding:

It’s easy to forward calls with quick codes. But the codes are very specific to your phone company. Landline call forwarding is a traditional way to redirect calls. Many home phone users still rely on it. It is a fundamental calling feature that has existed for decades.

Steps to Forward All Calls (*72 Method):

Here is how to forward calls on a landline. This method explains how to activate call forwarding for your home phone.

1. Pick up your home phone or office desk phone. Ensure you have a dial tone before proceeding.
2. Dial *72 (or the special code from your phone company). This is the common call-forwarding code for many landline providers.
3. Type the full 10-digit phone number where you want calls to go. Include the area code. For example, if forwarding to a cell phone, dial *72 then 555-123-4567.
4. Listen for a beep or a message that says it worked. Activated call forwarding is now active. Some systems might require you to stay on the line until the forwarded number rings once.
5. Hang up the phone. This is how to forward a call to another number from your landline. Your calls are now forwarded.

Common Landline Forwarding Codes (USA & Canada)

IMPORTANT: Always call your phone company to get the right codes for your service. These are examples of how to forward a landline to a cell phone. The call divert code can sometimes be unique. This ensures you are using the correct method to divert calls.

How to Stop Forwarding Calls on a Landline:

Dial *73 (or your phone company’s turn-off code). Listen for the message that it is off. This disables call forwarding on your landline. You might hear a confirmation tone or a voice message. Confirming it is off is essential to receive incoming calls on your primary line again. This is how to cancel call forwarding for a landline.

Things to Know About Landline Forwarding:

Usually, you can only forward all calls, not just some. You can only send calls to one other phone number. You have to turn it on and off yourself every time. You cannot forward text messages. Landline forwarding typically lacks advanced features like selective forwarding or call screening. It is a basic service for redirecting phone calls.

Fixing Problems and Special Call Forwarding Tips

How to Check If Call Forwarding Is On (All Phones):

• iPhone: Look in Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. This shows your call forwarding iPhone status. It clearly indicates if the feature is enabled and to which number.
• Android: Look in Phone app > Settings > Call Forwarding. This shows your call forwarding Android status. You can see which conditional forwarding options are active.
• Secret Codes: Dial these from your phone to check call forwarding status. These are known as call forwarding check number codes. They work on most GSM phones (both Android and iPhone, depending on the carrier).

*#21#: Checks if “Always Forward” (unconditional call forwarding) is on. This is the all-call divert code. It will display the number of calls being forwarded to.

*#61#: Checks if “Forward when No Answer” is on. This shows the forwarding number and the delay time (in seconds) before forwarding.

*#62#: Checks if “Forward when Unreachable” is on. This is for when your phone is off or out of service. It reveals the number of unreachable call diverts.

*#67#: Checks if “Forward when Busy” is on. This displays the number where calls are redirected when you are on another call.

*#002#: This universal code turns off all call forwarding. It is a quick way to cancel call forwarding completely.

Help! Call Forwarding Is Not Working:

• Your Phone Company: Does your plan allow it? Call them to ask about call forwarding services. Some older plans or prepaid options may not include this feature.
• Wrong Number/Code: Double-check the number or code you typed. The forwarding number must be correct. A single-digit error can prevent calls from being forwarded.
• Other Settings: Is your phone on “Do Not Disturb” or “Airplane Mode”? Turn them off. These modes can interfere with incoming call forwarding.
• Restart Your Phone: Turning it off and on can fix small issues. A simple restart often resolves temporary software glitches.
• Call Your Phone Company: If nothing works, they can help. They can check your call divert setting on their end and troubleshoot network issues. “How do I forward my calls to another number?” is a common support query they handle.

“Why does my phone say ‘Call Forwarded’ when I call someone?” This means the person you called has forwarded it. It’s normal! It means their calls are forwarded to another number. You are just seeing the action of their phone system. This is a common caller ID display.

Forwarding Calls to Other Countries:

• Extra Money: This often costs a lot more. International call forwarding can incur significant charges.
• Correct Numbers: Make sure you type the full international number (like + Country Code, City Code, Phone Number). For example, to forward to a UK number, you would dial the international access code, then 44 (UK country code), then the local number.
• Ask Your Phone Company: Some companies do not allow international forwarding, or you need to turn it on. Diverting calls internationally has specific rules. Always verify with your provider about international calling features and associated rates before setting up forward calls to another number overseas.

Can Text Messages Be Forwarded?

Usually, NO for regular phone forwarding. It’s only for calls. Call forwarding is primarily for voice phone calls. Text messages (SMS) operate on a different system. Some new business phone systems can forward texts. These are often integrated VoIP platforms.

Some apps can forward messages, but not your regular phone texts. For example, specific messaging apps might have their own forwarding features. Diverting calls and messages is not a standard feature of basic call forwarding, though some advanced call forwarding apps or services might offer it.

Call Forwarding vs. Voicemail: Which to Use?

• Forwarding: Use it if you want someone real to answer the call. This is for when you need a live person to take the incoming call, such as an assistant or another team member. It ensures immediate human interaction for the phone call.
• Voicemail: Use if no one can answer, or for messages you can listen to later. This is for when you cannot take the phone call immediately, but still want to receive information. It acts as a digital answering machine for incoming calls.

Problems with Old-Style Call Forwarding

1. Hard to Use & Easy to Forget

You must dial codes or change settings often. It’s easy to forget to turn it off when you do not need it anymore. Setting up call forwarding manually can be a hassle. Users frequently forget they have activated call forwarding, leading to missed calls on their primary device. This constant manual adjustment for forward calls is inconvenient.

2. Only One Place

You can only send calls to one other phone number at a time. You cannot send a call to a group of people. This limits how you forward phone calls. For businesses, this means you cannot distribute incoming calls to multiple available agents, making call management inefficient. You cannot forward phone calls to a team simultaneously.

3. No Separation for Work/Personal

If you use one phone number for everything, all calls forward. You cannot forward only your work calls. This makes managing personal and professional incoming calls difficult. Your personal calls might get forwarded to a work number, or vice versa, blurring boundaries. This lack of selective call forwarding is a significant drawback for smartphone users.

4. Hidden Costs

You might pay more money than you expect, especially for calls to faraway places. Call forwarding costs can add up. Some phone companies charge per minute for forwarded calls or for the activation of call forwarding services. If you forward calls to an international number, these costs multiply quickly. Always check your plan’s details regarding forwarded calls.

5. Missing New Features:

You do not get smart features like call records or sending texts. Old-style call diverting lacks modern call forwarding features. These older systems do not offer call analytics, automated greetings, or integration with other communication tools. They are solely designed to redirect calls, nothing more. You cannot manage text messages with these traditional methods.

A Better Way to Forward Calls: Modern Phone Systems

These are phone services that use the internet (called VoIP – Voice over Internet Protocol). They fix the problems of old call forwarding. These systems offer advanced calling features. They are also known as cloud phone systems or virtual contact center.

They convert voice into digital packets, allowing calls to travel over the internet. This provides greater flexibility and a broader range of call forwarding features compared to traditional phone lines.

How VoIP Makes Forwarding Easy and Smart:

Modern phone systems revolutionize how you handle phone calls.

• Easy Controls: Change settings easily on a computer or app. You can set up call forwarding with a few clicks. The call forwarding setting is usually part of an intuitive dashboard.
• Many Places: Send calls to many people or phones at once. This includes diverting calls to another number for multiple recipients, like a sales team. You can create call groups that ring simultaneously or sequentially.
• Set Hours: Calls go to voicemail automatically after work hours. This ensures you do not get work calls forwarded to you during personal time. You can customize forwarding rules based on time of day, day of the week, or even holidays.
• Separate Numbers: Get a special phone number just for work. This means you can forward only specific incoming calls. These virtual numbers help maintain privacy for your personal number.
• Cool Features: Record calls, get messages written down (voicemail-to-text), send texts (SMS/MMS integration), have a menu for callers (like “Press 1 for Sales,” known as an auto-attendant). These are comprehensive call forwarding services. You can also implement caller ID customization, call waiting, and detailed call logs.
• Save Money: Often cheaper than having many separate phone services. This helps manage costs for diverted calls. VoIP systems typically offer unlimited calling plans at a lower cost than traditional lines.
• Works Anywhere: Just need internet, not a specific phone company line. This makes phone forwarding flexible. You can manage your calls from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. This is perfect for remote workers or businesses with multiple locations.
• Scalability: Easily add or remove users and phone numbers as your needs change. This adaptability is crucial for growing businesses.
• Integration: Connects with CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software and other business tools. This streamlines workflows and enhances customer interactions.
• Analytics: Provides insights into call volume, duration, and peak times. This data helps optimize your call forwarding strategies.

Introducing Dialaxy:

Our system helps you forward calls easily. Our special features make call management better. Dialaxy offers a smart solution for forwarding calls. Dialaxy integrates advanced VoIP technology to provide a seamless call management experience. It is designed to be a game-changer for businesses and individuals seeking efficient phone forwarding.

Quick Steps to Forward Calls in Dialaxy:

Step 1: Log in to your Dialaxy account via web browser or mobile app.

Step 2: Go to the “Call Routing” or “Forwarding Rules” section in your dashboard.

Step 3: Choose the virtual phone number for which you want to set forwarding.

Step 4: Set up rules for how to forward calls (e.g., to another number, to a group, to voicemail, or based on time).

Step 5: Specify the target phone number or numbers for the diverted calls.

Step 6: Save your settings. It is a modern approach to how to forward calls to another phone. These changes are applied instantly, giving you real-time control.

Conclusion

Call forwarding is essential. It ensures your connections. This blog explained a variety of methods. We discussed iPhones, Androids, and landlines. Each of these has unique ways of handling calls. There are more advanced options available now, with more control and flexibility.

Older methods of forwarding calls can cause issues. The lack of flexibility can either lead to missed calls or to problems with forwarding in the first place. Modern Voice Over IP systems eliminate these issues because they introduce more functionality and possess more capabilities, providing you with total control of your communication. This type of technology significantly simplifies the way we deal with calls.

So say goodbye to the traditional approaches to managing calls. Discover Dialaxy, a great platform for simplifying the management of calls for everyone. Our system makes answering every important call easy, allowing you to stay connected to your circle forever. Find out how Dialaxy can positively impact your call forwarding today.

FAQs

How do I forward my calls to another phone?

The process differs by device type. On an iPhone, you access the Settings app. Tap on Phone. Then select Call Forwarding. You will see a toggle switch. Turn it ON. Next, enter the full phone number where calls should go.

On an Android device, open the Phone app. Look for a “three dots” icon or a “gear” icon. This opens Settings. Navigate to Call forwarding. You will typically find options like “Always forward,” “Forward when busy,” “Forward when unanswered,” and “Forward when unreachable.” Select your preferred option. Then type in the destination number.

For a landline phone, you usually dial a specific code. Pick up your phone. Dial *72. Then dial the full 10-digit phone number. This is where you want calls to go. Listen for a confirmation tone or message. This confirms activation.

What is the difference between *71 and *72 call forwarding?

The codes *71 and *72 relate to different types of call forwarding. *72 is the common code for unconditional call forwarding. This means all incoming calls divert immediately. They go to the specified forwarding number. Your primary phone will not ring. *71 typically activates conditional call forwarding. This service redirects calls only under certain conditions.

For example, calls might forward when your line is busy. They also forward when you do not answer. Or when your phone is unreachable. These codes are carrier-specific. Their exact functions can vary. Always check with your local phone company.

Does *73 forward calls?

No, *73 does not forward calls. Instead, this code serves a different purpose. It is generally used to deactivate call forwarding. If you have previously set up call forwarding, dialing *73 will cancel it. On landlines, it often turns off unconditional forwarding. On some mobile networks, it can disable all active forwarding rules. After dialing, listen for a confirmation. This indicates that forwarding is off.

Can someone forward my calls without me knowing?

No, someone cannot forward your calls without your knowledge. Call forwarding requires direct access. It needs access to your physical phone. Or it needs access to your phone service account online. An unauthorized person cannot remotely activate this feature. They would need your device’s passcode. They would also need your account credentials. Your privacy is protected in this aspect.

What does *82 do on a cell phone?

The code *82 has a purpose in caller ID. It is used to remove your caller ID for one phone call. If your phone has your number hidden by default, dialing *82 before the number will disclose your ID. This will show your number to the person you are calling solely for that call. It has nothing to do with call forwarding.

How do I check if call forwarding is on?

You can check the call forwarding status in several ways. On an iPhone, navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. The screen displays whether it is active. It also shows the forwarding number. For Android phones, open your Phone app. Go to Settings. Then find Call forwarding. All active forwarding rules appear here.

Universal codes also exist for mobile phones. Dial *#21# to check unconditional forwarding. Use *#61# for calls not answered. Dial *#62# for unreachable situations. Use *#67# for busy line forwarding. These codes provide instant status updates.

Is it possible to forward calls without my phone?

Yes, it is possible to forward calls without your physical phone. This depends on your service provider. Many modern carriers offer online account portals. You can log in through a web browser. You can manage your call forwarding settings there.

Some providers also have dedicated mobile apps. These apps allow remote management of call features. For VoIP services and business phone systems, this is a standard feature. You can often set up forwarding rules from any internet-connected device.

What does *#62 do to your phone?

The code *#62# is a diagnostic code. It checks the status of call forwarding when your phone is unreachable. This means if your phone is off or has no signal. After dialing *#62#, your phone will display information. It shows the number where calls are being diverted. This applies if your service uses this type of conditional forwarding. This code helps confirm your unreachable forwarding settings.