Call forwarding is a useful feature that ensures you never miss an important call, even when your phone is unreachable. Among the different types of call forwarding, Call Forwarding When Not Reachable is particularly helpful when your phone is out of coverage, switched off, or experiencing network issues.
In this guide, we will explore what Call Forwarding When Not Reachable means, how it works, how to activate it on different devices, and why it can be beneficial for both personal and business use.
What Is Call Forwarding When Not Reachable?
Call Forwarding When Not Reachable is a feature that automatically redirects incoming calls to another number when your phone is unavailable. This can happen when:
- Your phone is switched off.
- You are in an area with no network coverage.
- Your phone is on airplane mode.
- There is a network outage or technical issue.
Instead of the caller hearing a voicemail or a ‘not reachable’ message, their call is forwarded to a preset number, such as another mobile phone, a landline, or a voicemail service.
How Does Call Forwarding When Not Reachable Work?
This feature is based on Conditional Call Forwarding, meaning it only activates under specific conditions. Here’s how it works:
- A caller dials your number.
- Your network checks the availability of your phone.
- If your phone is unreachable, the network automatically redirects the call to the forwarding number.
- The recipient at the forwarded number answers the call or the call goes to voicemail if no one picks up.
This process ensures that important calls are not lost when your primary number is unavailable.
How to Activate Call Forwarding When Not Reachable
The method to activate this feature varies depending on your carrier and device. Below are the common ways to enable call forwarding when unreachable.
1. Activating Call Forwarding on Android Phones
To set up Call Forwarding When Not Reachable on Android devices:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) or go to Settings.
- Select Call settings or Call forwarding.
- Choose Forward when unreachable.
- Enter the phone number where calls should be forwarded.
- Tap Enable or Turn on.
2. Activating Call Forwarding on iPhones
On iPhones, call forwarding settings depend on your carrier. To set it up:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Phone.
- Select Call Forwarding.
- Enter the forwarding number under Forward When Unreachable (if available).
- Toggle the setting to On.
If the option is not available, you may need to activate call forwarding using USSD codes (see below).
3. Activating Call Forwarding Using USSD Codes
Many mobile carriers allow call forwarding activation via USSD codes. The general format is:
- Dial:
*62*[Forwarding Number]# - Example: If you want to forward calls to +1234567890, dial:
*62*+1234567890# - Press Call/Send to activate.
- To deactivate, dial
##62#.
Since USSD codes can vary, check with your mobile carrier for the correct codes.
4. Setting Up Call Forwarding via Carrier Settings
Some network providers offer call forwarding management through their mobile apps or customer service portals. You can log in to your account and enable Call Forwarding When Not Reachable in the settings.
Benefits of Call Forwarding When Not Reachable
1. Ensures You Never Miss Important Calls
Whether for personal or business reasons, this feature makes sure that people can always reach you.
2. Provides a Backup Communication Channel
If your primary phone is unavailable, calls can be directed to another number, such as an assistant, colleague, or family member.
3. Enhances Business Availability
For business owners and professionals, call forwarding ensures that clients can always connect with a representative, even if the main phone is off.
4. Improves Customer Service
Businesses that use call forwarding can redirect customer calls to a helpdesk or support team instead of letting them go unanswered.
5. Useful for Travel and Remote Work
If you’re traveling and your local SIM is unreachable, calls can be forwarded to an international number, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Call Forwarding When Not Reachable vs. Other Call Forwarding Types
| Call Forwarding Type | Description | When It Activates |
|---|---|---|
| Call Forwarding Unconditional | Forwards all calls automatically. | Every time someone calls. |
| Call Forwarding When Busy | Redirects calls if you are on another call. | When your line is engaged. |
| Call Forwarding When No Answer | Sends calls to another number if you don’t pick up. | After a certain number of rings. |
| Call Forwarding When Not Reachable | Forwards calls when your phone is off or out of coverage. | When your phone is unavailable. |
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
1. Call Forwarding Not Working
- Ensure the correct forwarding number is entered.
- Check if your carrier supports call forwarding.
- Restart your phone after activating the setting.
2. Unable to Disable Call Forwarding
- Use the deactivation code (e.g.,
##62#). - Go to call settings and manually turn off forwarding.
- Contact your carrier if the issue persists.
3. Calls Still Going to Voicemail Instead of Forwarding
- Ensure that voicemail settings do not override call forwarding.
- Disable voicemail if necessary before activating call forwarding.
Best Practices for Using Call Forwarding When Not Reachable
1. Use a Reliable Forwarding Number
Forward calls to a number that is always available, such as a secondary phone, landline, or office number.
2. Test the Call Forwarding Feature
After activation, call your number from another device to ensure forwarding works as expected.
3. Update the Forwarding Number When Needed
If your backup number changes, update the call forwarding settings to prevent lost calls.
4. Use Call Forwarding for Business Continuity
Businesses should configure call forwarding to ensure continuous customer support, even during network failures.
5. Deactivate Forwarding When Not Needed
If you no longer need call forwarding, remember to turn it off to avoid unnecessary charges.
Call Forwarding When Not Reachable is a valuable feature that ensures you never miss important calls, even when your phone is switched off or out of network coverage. Whether for personal convenience or business continuity, activating this feature can improve communication and ensure that callers can always reach you.
By understanding how it works, setting it up correctly, and following best practices, you can maximize the benefits of call forwarding and maintain seamless connectivity at all times.