What the codes are
Most UK mobile networks let you set call forwarding by dialling a code on your phone's keypad and pressing call. The codes start with *, ** or #, include the number you're forwarding to, and end with #. Your phone then shows a message saying the setting worked.
There is a code for each kind of forwarding, a code to check it and a code to cancel it:
| Kind | What it does |
|---|---|
| No answer | Forwards calls you don't pick up, after a set number of seconds |
| Busy | Forwards calls while you're on another call, or that you reject |
| Unreachable | Forwards calls when your phone is off or has no signal |
| All calls | Forwards every call; your phone doesn't ring |
| Cancel | Switches forwarding off again |
For an AI receptionist, use no answer, busy and unreachable together. Your phone still rings first, and your receptionist answers the calls you miss.
EE, Vodafone, O2, Three, giffgaff and others
The codes are an international standard, but networks don't all support every one, and some ask you to use their own customer menu or your phone's settings instead. Codes can also change. So we don't list them here: check your network's own help pages (search for your network's name and "call divert"), or use the steps in the Linesteward app.
In the app, once you choose "Keep my number", you see the code to dial with your receptionist's number already filled in.
If a code doesn't work, your network's customer service can switch forwarding on for you.
iPhone and Android settings
- iPhone: the Call Forwarding switch in the Phone settings forwards all calls. For "no answer", "busy" or "unreachable" only, use your network's code or menu.
- Android: open the Phone app, then its settings, and look for Call forwarding (sometimes under Supplementary services). Many Android phones show the four kinds separately. The menu names vary by maker.
Check it works
Ring your mobile from another phone and let it ring out. Your receptionist should answer. If your old voicemail answers instead, voicemail may be taking the call first: switch forwarding on again with the right number, or ask your network to change it.
Your network may charge for forwarded calls. Check your tariff.