**Have you ever found yourself puzzled by an incoming call that never quite reaches your phone, only to realize it's being redirected elsewhere? Or perhaps you've set up call forwarding in the past for convenience, but now it's causing more headaches than help? This comprehensive guide is designed to help you regain control over your phone calls by showing you exactly how to deactivate call forwarding across various devices and scenarios. Say goodbye to unwanted redirects and reclaim your communication clarity.** Whether you're dealing with a landline, an iPhone, or an Android device, understanding the simple steps to turn off call forwarding is crucial for managing your personal and professional communications effectively. From immediate call forwarding to conditional call forwarding (like when there's no answer or your line is busy), we'll walk you through the precise methods, including the use of MMI codes and device settings, to ensure your calls land exactly where they're intended – with you. *** **Table of Contents** * [Understanding Call Forwarding: Types and Basics](#understanding-call-forwarding-types-and-basics) * [Immediate vs. Conditional Forwarding](#immediate-vs-conditional-forwarding) * [The Role of MMI Codes in Deactivation](#the-role-of-mmi-codes-in-deactivation) * [How to Deactivate Call Forwarding on Android Devices](#how-to-deactivate-call-forwarding-on-android-devices) * [Using MMI Codes for Android](#using-mmi-codes-for-android) * [Deactivating via Android Settings App](#deactivating-via-android-settings-app) * [How to Deactivate Call Forwarding on iPhones](#how-to-deactivate-call-forwarding-on-iphones) * [Using MMI Codes for iPhone](#using-mmi-codes-for-iphone) * [Deactivating via iPhone Settings App](#deactivating-via-iphone-settings-app) * [Deactivating Call Forwarding on Landlines](#deactivating-call-forwarding-on-landlines) * [Carrier-Specific Deactivation Codes: Airtel, Glo, and More](#carrier-specific-deactivation-codes-airtel-glo-and-more) * [The Impact of Deactivation on Voicemail](#the-impact-of-deactivation-on-voicemail) * [When to Consider Alternatives: Virtual Phone Numbers for Business](#when-to-consider-alternatives-virtual-phone-numbers-for-business) * [Troubleshooting Common Call Forwarding Issues](#troubleshooting-common-call-forwarding-issues) *** ## Understanding Call Forwarding: Types and Basics Before diving into the deactivation process, it's helpful to understand what call forwarding is and its different forms. A call forwarding allows you to forward an incoming call to another number or voicemail. Essentially, when someone dials your primary number, an active call forwarding rule will redirect that incoming call to a configured number as per the connections defined. This feature can be incredibly useful for ensuring you never miss an important call, especially if you're away from your primary device or want to consolidate communications. However, its convenience can quickly turn into a hindrance if not managed properly. ### Immediate vs. Conditional Forwarding Call forwarding isn't a one-size-fits-all feature. There are primarily two types: 1. **Immediate (Unconditional) Call Forwarding:** This type redirects *all* incoming calls, regardless of the situation, to another specified number. Your phone won't even ring. This is often used when you're completely unavailable or want all calls to go to an assistant or a different phone. 2. **Conditional Call Forwarding:** This type only forwards calls under specific conditions. Common scenarios include: * **Call forwarding when busy:** Incoming calls are redirected if your line is already in use. * **Call forwarding when not answered (no reply):** Calls are forwarded if you don't pick up after a certain number of rings. * **Call forwarding when unreachable:** Calls are forwarded if your phone is off, out of service, or otherwise unavailable. Understanding which type of call forwarding is active on your device is crucial, as each type of call forwarding has its own call forwarding deactivate code, so make sure you use the correct one. ### The Role of MMI Codes in Deactivation One of the most common and often universal methods to deactivate call forwarding is by using Man-Machine Interface (MMI) codes. These are special shortcodes that you dial directly from your phone's dialer, much like making a regular call. The MMI code then sends a command to your network provider to either activate, check, or deactivate specific services, including call forwarding. This guide will explain the steps to deactivate call forwarding using the MMI code. Use the MMI code to cancel the call forwarding on your Android and iPhone. For example, `##21#` is a frequently used MMI code to disable all types of unconditional call forwarding. ## How to Deactivate Call Forwarding on Android Devices Android devices offer flexibility in how you manage call forwarding, typically through both MMI codes and the phone's built-in settings. If you want to turn off call forwarding for your Android device, follow these simple steps. ### Using MMI Codes for Android Deactivating call forwarding on your Android phone using MMI codes is often the quickest method, especially if you know which type of forwarding is active. Open the phone app on your device and navigate to the dialer. Here are the common MMI codes to deactivate call forwarding on Android: * **To deactivate all types of call forwarding (unconditional):** Dial `##21#` and press the call button to send the deactivation command. This is a universal code to stop all calls from being forwarded. * **To disable call forwarding when busy:** Dial `##67#` and press the call button. This will deactivate this specific feature. * **To disable call forwarding when not answered (no reply):** Dial `##61#` and press the call button. * **To disable call forwarding when unreachable:** Dial `##62#` and press the call button. After dialing, you should receive a confirmation message on your screen indicating that the call forwarding has been successfully deactivated. ### Deactivating via Android Settings App For those who prefer a graphical interface or if MMI codes don't seem to work, you can usually deactivate call forwarding directly through your Android phone's settings. To deactivate call forwarding on an Android phone, open the phone app. Then, depending on your Android version and phone manufacturer, navigate to: 1. **Settings** (often found by tapping the three dots or a gear icon within the Phone app). 2. Look for "Calling Accounts," "Call Settings," or "Supplementary Services." 3. Select "Call Forwarding." 4. You will likely see various call forwarding options, such as "Always forward," "When busy," "When unanswered," and "When unreachable." 5. To disable call forwarding, select "Always forward" and choose "Turn off" from the dialogue box that appears. For other conditional forwarding options, you'll need to turn off each call forwarding option listed by toggling them off. This method allows you to visually manage and disable any active call forwarding rules by tapping on the switch next to them. ## How to Deactivate Call Forwarding on iPhones iPhones also provide straightforward methods to manage call forwarding, whether through specific MMI codes or directly within the iOS settings. If you want to turn off call forwarding for your iPhone device, follow these simple steps. ### Using MMI Codes for iPhone Similar to Android, MMI codes are effective for deactivating call forwarding on iPhones. * **To disable all types of call forwarding (unconditional):** Dial `##21#` and tap the call button. This will deactivate all types of call forwarding. * **To deactivate conditional call forwarding using specific codes (e.g., ##67# for busy):** * For "when busy": Dial `##67#` and tap the call button. * For "when not answered": Dial `##61#` and tap the call button. * For "when unreachable": Dial `##62#` and tap the call button. You should receive a confirmation message after executing the code. As with disabling call forwarding on an iPhone, the number you were forwarding to will no longer receive your calls. ### Deactivating via iPhone Settings App The process to disable call forwarding on an iPhone through its settings is equally simple. 1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone. 2. Scroll down and tap on "Phone." 3. From there, I selected "Call Forwarding." 4. If call forwarding is active, the toggle switch next to "Call Forwarding" will be green. 5. I saw various call forwarding options, and I chose to disable all of them by toggling them off. Simply tap the toggle to turn it off. This will disable unconditional call forwarding through the settings app. If you had conditional forwarding set up via your carrier, you might still need to use MMI codes or contact your service provider. ## Deactivating Call Forwarding on Landlines While mobile phones dominate communication, many businesses and homes still rely on landlines. The process to deactivate call forwarding on landlines differs from mobile devices and usually involves dialing specific codes provided by your landline service provider. If you want to turn off call forwarding for your landline, Android, or iPhone device, follow these simple steps. For landlines: * **Common Deactivation Code:** Often, `*73` is used to turn off call forwarding on landlines. Dial `*73` and tap the call option to cancel call forwarding. * **Activation vs. Deactivation:** It's important to note that `*72` is usually used to activate call forwarding, not disable it. If `*72` doesn’t work for deactivation, consult your service provider for the correct code. * **Service Provider Specifics:** Each landline provider (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, local carriers) might have slightly different codes. To deactivate call forwarding, use the code provided by your service provider, usually `*73` for deactivation. If you're unsure, the best course of action is to contact your landline service provider directly. They can guide you through the process or disable it remotely for you. ## Carrier-Specific Deactivation Codes: Airtel, Glo, and More While MMI codes like `##21#` are widely recognized, some carriers might have their own specific codes or preferred methods. Understanding these can save you time and frustration. **How to deactivate call forwarding on Airtel:** Disabling call forwarding on your Airtel number is as effortless as activating it. To deactivate call divert/forwarding on your Airtel SIM card, dial this Airtel call forwarding deactivate code on your phone. 1. Open the phone app and tap the dialer. 2. Dial `##002#` and press the send/call button. All call forwarding options on the Airtel SIM will be deactivated. This is a common universal code for many networks, including Airtel, to disable all forwarding. 3. If the universal code didn’t work for you, then in order to stop call forwarding on your Airtel SIM, you might also try `*402`. Now dial the custom code `*402` in your dialer to stop call forwarding. **How to cancel call divert on Glo:** Similar to Airtel, Glo (and other carriers like MTN, Vodafone, etc.) will have specific codes or rely on the standard MMI codes. For Glo, the `##002#` code is also generally effective for deactivating all call forwarding. If that doesn't work, consulting Glo's customer service or their official website for the most up-to-date codes is recommended. **General Advice for Carrier-Specific Codes:** * Always check your carrier's official support page or contact their customer service if the standard MMI codes don't work. * Some carriers might have an online portal where you can manage your services, including call forwarding, from your computer. This falls under the concept of "How to deactivate call forwarding on your computer" for managing mobile services online. ## The Impact of Deactivation on Voicemail A common concern when cancelling call forwarding is its effect on voicemail. Does cancelling call forwarding affect voicemail? In most cases, voicemail is powered by conditional call forwarding, specifically "when unreachable" (`##62#`), "when not answered" (`##61#`), or "when busy" (`##67#`). If you use the master deactivation code like `##002#` or `##21#` to disable all types of call forwarding, it may disable voicemail entirely. This is because these codes turn off all conditional forwarding rules, including those that direct calls to your voicemail when you can't answer or are unavailable. **Important Consideration:** If you want voicemail to work but stop other call routing, use specific shortcodes rather than the master one (`##002#`). For example, if you only want to stop calls from being forwarded when your line is busy, use `##67#`. This way, your voicemail service (which typically relies on the "no answer" or "unreachable" forwarding) remains active. Always test your voicemail after making changes to ensure it's functioning as desired. ## When to Consider Alternatives: Virtual Phone Numbers for Business While deactivating call forwarding solves immediate issues, for business communication, it's worth discovering why virtual phone numbers are a better alternative to traditional call forwarding. A virtual phone number is a number that isn't tied to a physical phone line or device. Instead, it routes calls over the internet (VoIP) to any designated phone, whether it's a mobile, landline, or even a softphone on a computer. Here's why virtual numbers often surpass traditional call forwarding for businesses: * **Professionalism:** Virtual numbers offer features like auto-attendants, multiple extensions, and custom greetings, projecting a more professional image than simply forwarding calls to a personal mobile. * **Flexibility and Scalability:** Easily add or remove lines, forward calls to multiple destinations simultaneously, or set up complex routing rules based on time of day, caller ID, or department. This is far more robust than basic call forwarding. * **Cost-Effectiveness:** Often, virtual phone systems offer unlimited calling, lower international rates, and integrated features (like voicemail-to-email, call recording) that would be expensive or unavailable with traditional phone lines. * **Mobility:** Teams can answer calls from anywhere with an internet connection, without needing to constantly set up or deactivate call forwarding on individual devices. * **Analytics:** Many virtual phone systems provide detailed call logs and analytics, helping businesses understand call volumes, peak times, and agent performance – data unavailable with simple call forwarding. For businesses looking for a robust, scalable, and professional communication solution, investing in a virtual phone system with dedicated virtual numbers offers far greater capabilities and control than relying solely on call forwarding. It streamlines operations and enhances customer experience. ## Troubleshooting Common Call Forwarding Issues Navigating the steps to enable or disable call forwarding is straightforward, as outlined for various devices. However, sometimes technical hiccups occur. Understanding troubleshooting tips can also save time and frustration, ensuring that technical hiccups don’t disrupt communication flow. * **"What to know why there is a number when *#62# is dialed? Is it tapping your call? Learn if it is forwarding your call and how to cancel it."** * When you dial `*#62#`, it's an MMI code used to check the status of "call forwarding when unreachable." It will display the number to which your calls are forwarded if your phone is off or out of network. This is a standard network feature and does **not** indicate call tapping. If you see an unfamiliar number, it means your calls are being redirected there when you're unreachable. To cancel it, use `##62#`. * **Codes Not Working:** * **Carrier Specificity:** As mentioned, some carriers might use different codes. Double-check with your service provider's official website or customer support. * **Temporary Network Glitch:** Sometimes, a temporary network issue can prevent codes from registering. Try again after a few minutes or restart your phone. * **Incorrect Code:** Ensure you're dialing the exact code, including all `#` and `*` symbols. * **Settings Not Saving:** * **Device Restart:** After changing settings, a quick restart of your device can sometimes help solidify the changes. * **Software Glitch:** If the issue persists, ensure your phone's operating system is up to date. * **Still Receiving Forwarded Calls:** * **Multiple Forwarding Rules:** You might have more than one type of call forwarding active (e.g., unconditional and "when busy"). Ensure you've deactivated all relevant types using their specific codes or by checking all options in your phone's call forwarding settings. * **Network Delay:** Sometimes, it takes a few moments for the network to process the deactivation command. Wait a few minutes and test again. * **Contact Support:** If all else fails, your service provider's technical support team can check your line from their end and deactivate any active forwarding rules. By understanding these common issues and their solutions, you can effectively manage and troubleshoot any call forwarding challenges you encounter. ## Conclusion Regaining control over your phone calls by learning how to deactivate call forwarding is a simple yet empowering step. We've explored how to disable call forwarding on landlines, iPhones, and Androids with simple steps, ensuring you can say goodbye to unwanted redirects. Whether you're using MMI codes like `##21#` to stop all calls from being forwarded, or navigating through your device's settings, the process is designed to be straightforward. We also covered the nuances of conditional forwarding (no answer / busy transfer) and the critical impact deactivation can have on your voicemail, emphasizing the importance of using specific shortcodes if you want voicemail to work but stop other call routing. Furthermore, for businesses, we've highlighted why virtual phone numbers present a superior, more flexible, and professional alternative to traditional call forwarding, offering advanced features and scalability. Navigating the steps to enable or disable call forwarding is straightforward, as outlined for various devices, and understanding troubleshooting tips can also save time and frustration, ensuring that technical hiccups don’t disrupt communication flow. Now that you're equipped with this comprehensive knowledge, take charge of your communication. If this guide helped you untangle your call forwarding woes, consider sharing it with others who might benefit. Do you have any tips or experiences with deactivating call forwarding? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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