Call forwarding is a useful feature that allows you to redirect incoming calls from your mobile phone to another number, such as your office phone or a different mobile phone. This can be particularly helpful if you are travelling or unable to answer calls on your primary device. In this blog post, we will explore the different methods for setting call forwarding on an Android device, including step-by-step instructions and additional tips to make the process as seamless as possible.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Set Call Forwarding on Android
There are several reasons why you may need to set call forwarding on your Android device. Here are a few common scenarios where call forwarding can be beneficial:
1. Traveling: When you are away from your primary phone, whether it’s for a business trip or a vacation, you can forward calls to another number so that you don’t miss any important calls.
2. Poor network coverage: If you are in an area with weak or no network coverage, you can set call forwarding to redirect calls to a location with better reception, ensuring that you can still receive important calls.
3. Multiple devices: If you have multiple mobile phones or a combination of a mobile phone and a landline, you can forward calls from one device to another, allowing you to answer calls on the device that is most convenient for you at the time.
4. Busy schedule: If you have a busy schedule or need to attend important meetings or events where you cannot answer calls, you can forward calls to a designated assistant or colleague who can handle them on your behalf.
Now that we understand the importance of call forwarding on Android devices, let’s explore the different methods you can use to set it up.
Method 1: Using the Phone Settings
Setting call forwarding through the phone settings is one of the simplest methods. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the Phone app on your Android device.
Step 2: Tap the three-dot menu icon (usually located in the top-right corner of the screen) to open the additional options.
Step 3: From the dropdown menu, select “Settings” or “Call settings.”
Step 4: Look for the “Call forwarding” or “Forward calls” option. Depending on your device and Android version, this option may vary.
Step 5: Tap on “Call forwarding” and select the type of call forwarding you want to set up. You may have options such as “Always forward,” “Forward when busy,” “Forward when unanswered,” or “Forward when unreachable.”
Step 6: Enter the number to which you want to forward incoming calls. Make sure to include the country code, area code, and the complete phone number.
Step 7: Save the settings, and call forwarding will be activated.
Note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the Android version and device manufacturer. If you are unable to find the call forwarding settings, refer to the device’s user manual or search online for specific instructions based on your device model.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and convenient method accessible through the phone settings. | 1. May require manual changes to the settings whenever you want to enable or disable call forwarding. |
| 2. No need for additional apps or third-party services. | 2. Availability of certain call forwarding options may depend on the device and Android version. |
| 3. Offers more control and flexibility in managing call forwarding settings. | 3. Limited customization options such as setting different forwarding numbers for specific contacts or time periods. |
Method 2: Via Your Mobile Network Provider
Another way to set call forwarding on your Android device is through your mobile network provider’s services. This method may require you to contact your service provider or access your account settings online. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Contact your mobile network provider’s customer service or log in to your online account.
Step 2: Inquire about the call forwarding service and ask for the necessary instructions.
Step 3: Follow the instructions provided by your mobile network provider to set up call forwarding.
Step 4: Enter the forwarding number and select the desired call forwarding options, such as “Always forward,” “Forward when busy,” “Forward when unanswered,” or “Forward when unreachable.”
Step 5: Save the settings, and call forwarding will be activated.
Note: The steps for setting call forwarding via your mobile network provider’s services may differ depending on the provider. It is recommended to consult your provider’s documentation or contact their customer service for accurate and up-to-date instructions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Accessible through your mobile network provider’s services. | 1. May require contacting the customer service or accessing your online account to make changes. |
| 2. Offers different call forwarding options as provided by the network provider. | 2. Availability of certain call forwarding options may depend on the network provider. |
| 3. Can provide more advanced features like time-based call forwarding or forwarding to multiple numbers. | 3. May involve additional costs or subscription fees depending on your mobile network provider. |
Method 3: Using Third-Party Call Forwarding Apps
If the built-in options on your Android device do not meet your specific requirements, you can explore third-party call forwarding apps available on the Google Play Store. These apps offer additional features and customization options. Here’s how you can set call forwarding using a third-party app:
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
Step 2: Search for call forwarding apps and choose a reliable and highly-rated app that suits your needs.
Step 3: Install the app on your device and launch it.
Step 4: Follow the app’s instructions to set up call forwarding. The steps may vary depending on the app you choose, but they generally involve entering the forwarding number and selecting the desired call forwarding options.
Step 5: Save the settings, and call forwarding will be activated through the third-party app.
Note: It is important to research and read user reviews before installing any third-party app from the Google Play Store. Ensure that the app is trustworthy and does not compromise your privacy or security.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Offers additional features and customization options beyond the built-in phone settings. | 1. Requires installing and managing a separate app, which may consume device resources. |
| 2. Can provide advanced call forwarding options and rules based on specific criteria. | 2. Some apps may have limitations or restrictions on the number of call forwarding rules or duration of usage for free versions. |
| 3. Allows setting different forwarding numbers for specific contacts or time periods. | 3. May involve subscription fees or in-app purchases to unlock certain features or remove ads. |
Method 4: Using Google Voice
If you have a Google Voice account, you can utilize its call forwarding features to redirect calls from your Android device to other numbers. Here’s how you can set up call forwarding using Google Voice:
Step 1: Install the Google Voice app from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.
Step 2: Open the Google Voice app and sign in to your Google account associated with Google Voice.
Step 3: Tap on the three-bar menu icon to open the navigation menu.
Step 4: Select “Settings” from the menu.
Step 5: Tap on “Calls” and then “Call forwarding.”
Step 6: Enable call forwarding by selecting the “Forward calls” option.
Step 7: Enter the number to which you want to forward calls.
Step 8: Save the settings, and call forwarding will be activated through Google Voice.
Note: Setting up call forwarding through Google Voice requires a Google Voice number and a working internet connection. If you don’t have a Google Voice account, you can create one by visiting the Google Voice website and following the instructions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Utilizes Google Voice account features for call forwarding. | 1. Requires a Google Voice account and a working internet connection. |
| 2. Offers additional features like voicemail transcription and call screening. | 2. May need to inform contacts about using a different phone number for call forwarding. |
| 3. Can forward calls to multiple numbers simultaneously or sequentially. | 3. Limited availability of Google Voice in some countries and regions. |
What to Do If You Can’t Set Call Forwarding on Android
If you encounter issues while setting call forwarding on your Android device, here are a few possible fixes:
1. Restart your device: Sometimes, restarting your device can resolve minor software glitches and allow you to access the call forwarding settings.
2. Check network compatibility: Ensure that your mobile network provider supports call forwarding and that you have the necessary subscription or plan. Contact your provider’s customer service for assistance.
3. Reset network settings: If call forwarding still doesn’t work, you can try resetting your network settings. This will remove any custom network configurations and restore them to default. Go to “Settings,” “System,” “Reset options,” and select “Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth” or a similar option.
4. Contact customer support: If you have tried the above solutions and are still unable to set call forwarding, reach out to your device manufacturer or mobile network provider’s customer support for further assistance and troubleshooting.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to enhance your call forwarding experience on Android:
1. Customize call forwarding for specific contacts: Some call forwarding apps or services allow you to set different forwarding numbers or rules for specific contacts. This can be useful when you want to forward calls from important contacts to a different number.
2. Create time-based call forwarding schedules: If you have a fixed schedule or specific time periods when you want calls to be forwarded, explore call forwarding options that allow you to set time-based schedules. This can help automate the call forwarding process based on your availability.
3. Test call forwarding settings: After setting up call forwarding, make sure to test it by dialing your own phone number from another device. This will ensure that calls are properly redirected and that you can receive them on the designated forwarding number.
5 FAQs
Q1: How much does call forwarding cost?
A: The cost of call forwarding may vary depending on your mobile network provider and the specific call forwarding options you choose. Some providers may offer call forwarding as part of their service plans, while others may charge additional fees. It is recommended to check with your provider for detailed pricing information.
Q2: Can I forward calls to an international number?
A: In most cases, you can forward calls to an international number. However, international call forwarding may incur additional charges, so it is essential to check with your mobile network provider for any international call forwarding fees and compatibility.
Q3: Can I forward calls to multiple numbers simultaneously?
A: Depending on the method or service you are using for call forwarding, you may have the option to forward calls to multiple numbers simultaneously. This can be useful when you want calls to ring on multiple devices or share call answering responsibilities with colleagues or assistants.
Q4: Will the caller know that their call is being forwarded?
A: In most cases, the caller will not be aware that their call is being forwarded unless you have specifically enabled features such as call screening or call whisper. However, it is important to note that some network providers or call forwarding services may play a short message to inform the caller that their call is being forwarded.
Q5: Can I use call forwarding if my phone is turned off or out of network coverage?
A: Call forwarding requires an active network connection to direct incoming calls. If your phone is turned off or out of network coverage, call forwarding may not work as intended. However, once your phone regains network connectivity, call forwarding settings will take effect.
Final Thoughts
Setting call forwarding on your Android device can provide you with greater flexibility and ensure that you never miss important calls, even when you are unable to answer them directly. Whether you prefer to use the built-in phone settings, your mobile network provider’s services, third-party call forwarding apps, or Google Voice, there are various options available to meet your specific needs. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in this blog post, and don’t forget to explore the bonus tips for a more personalized call forwarding experience. Stay connected and stay in control with call forwarding on your Android device.