Forwarding calls and texts from one cell phone to another is common when you share a line, lend a device, or need calls to reach you on another number. This guide explains how to redirect calls and texts using built-in carrier features, device settings, and trusted third-party apps, and what to expect for privacy, compatibility, and cost. The methods below work for most plans on iPhone and Android, though exact options depend on your carrier and device.
How call and text forwarding works at a high level
Call forwarding routes incoming calls to another number through your carrier’s network; most carriers support basic forwarding, but rules for texts vary more widely. On-device call forwarding sends calls after a ring or when unanswered; on-network forwarding is handled by your carrier even when your phone is off. For texts, simple forwarding copies messages to another number, while more advanced options like messaging portals or business features may support multi-device sync or shared threads. Below is a quick overview of common approaches and when to use them.
| Method | What It Does | Best For | Typical Cost | Privacy Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier call forwarding (basic) | Carrier redirects calls to another number | Keep one number active, redirect all calls | Often free; some plans charge | Carrier sees forwarded metadata; minimal content access |
| Carrier text forwarding | Copies or redirects SMS/MMS to another number | Simple, low‑tech message redirection | May be free; check plan | Message content passes through carrier |
| Device call forwarding (iPhone/Android) | Calls redirected after a set number of rings or when unanswered | You’re unavailable but phone is on | Free; plan data still applies | No extra carrier logging beyond forwarding records |
| Third‑party calling apps (WhatsApp, Signal, etc.) | Calls over internet; can route to multiple devicesInternet‑based communication and contact syncNot a direct substitute for native SMSUsually free; data use appliesEnd-to-end encryption protects content
Carrier-level call and text forwarding options
Check your plan and carrier settings first
Start by confirming what your plan supports: many carriers include basic call forwarding at no charge, while others may bill per month or per forwarded call. Text forwarding is less standardized; some carriers offer message redirection, but it may not work for MMS or rich messaging. Use your account portal, carrier app, or customer support to verify features and any opt‑in steps. Note that enabling call forwarding may change how your caller ID appears to the person you call.
How to request or enable basic call forwarding
- Dial a US carrier feature code (examples only; confirm with your carrier):
- Forward all calls: *72 followed by the 10‑digit number
- Forward when unanswered: *90 followed by the 10‑digit number
- Deactivate: *73
- UK and other regions use different codes or may require settings in your carrier account
After you enable forwarding, test with a call and leave a message if needed to confirm behavior. If you want to forward texts, ask support whether message redirection is available and what limitations apply (e.g., MMS, group messaging, or iMessage). Always note any changes to your caller ID or message delivery status when forwarding is active.
Device-level call and text settings (iPhone and Android)
Set up call forwarding on iPhone
iPhone can forward calls when you’re unavailable without touching carrier codes, provided your carrier allows it:
- Open Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding.
- Turn on Call Forwarding and enter the destination number.
- Incoming calls will go to that number based on your settings (all calls or no answer/busy).
Use this when you want the phone to handle forwarding locally, but remember that the carrier may still log the forwarding event. You can disable Call Forwarding anytime from the same screen.
Set up call forwarding on Android
Android varies by brand and carrier, but generally you can:
- Open the Phone app > Settings (three dots or gear) > Calls > Call forwarding.
- Choose an option like Always forward, Forward when unanswered, or Forward when busy, then enter the number.
If you don’t see Call forwarding in the phone settings, check your carrier’s app or account, or contact support. Some manufacturers place call forwarding under SIM card settings instead. As with iPhone, test that calls route as expected and note any caller ID changes.
Text message options on Android and iPhone
Native SMS/MMS apps do not include a built-in “forward to another number” toggle. Common workarounds include:
- Manually forwarding individual conversations by copying and sending key details
- Using a third‑party SMS app that supports forwarding (see next section)
- Setting up message forwarding via a business/messaging platform if your carrier and carrier plan support it
If you need automated text forwarding, you’ll likely need a third‑party app or a business texting solution; carrier-level text forwarding is available on some plans but may be limited to SMS and not MMS.
Practical third-party apps and services for forwarding
Choose trusted solutions with clear privacy practices
Several apps and services can help route calls and texts to another number, often with extra controls like schedules, rules, and multi‑device sync. When evaluating options:
- Prefer apps with strong security track records and transparent privacy policies
- Confirm whether the app uses internet calling (VoIP) or redirects native calls and texts
- Check whether the app can handle MMS, group messages, and spam protection
Business messaging platforms or unified communications tools may offer enterprise-grade forwarding, logging, and compliance features, but they usually require organization-level deployment and may not suit personal use cases.
What to expect from third-party call and text forwarding
Many consumer apps route calls over the internet and require all parties to have the app installed for full functionality; this is not a direct replacement for native carrier forwarding if you need to reach numbers without the app. Solutions that interact with your carrier’s network often require careful setup and may affect your plan’s minute or message allowances. Review app permissions, data usage, and whether calls are placed as your phone or as the app’s service so you understand how your plan is used.
Practical steps to forward calls and texts today
You can usually enable call forwarding quickly using a code or device setting, but text forwarding often needs carrier confirmation or a third‑party app. Before you proceed:
- Confirm your carrier’s policy and any costs for forwarding calls or texts.
- Check whether caller ID will change for forwarded calls.
- Test both calls and texts to the destination number and from a contact to verify delivery.
- Disable forwarding when it’s no longer needed to reduce privacy exposure.
If you are sharing a line temporarily, prefer device-level call forwarding and clearly communicate any changes in message delivery. For ongoing or complex needs, evaluate a third‑party app or a business messaging plan that aligns with your privacy and feature requirements.
Privacy, compatibility, and costs to keep in mind
Forwarding calls and texts means another number can see your incoming communications, so choose recipients you trust. Forwarding through your carrier may produce logs on their network; app-based solutions may store metadata depending on their privacy policy. Compatibility depends on your device, carrier support, and whether both parties use the same messaging ecosystem. Costs range from free (on-device carrier features on many plans) to recurring fees for premium forwarding services or business tools.
Summary and quick comparison at a glance
Choose the method that matches your needs:
- Simple, temporary redirection: use carrier call forwarding codes or device call forwarding.
- Text forwarding with carrier support: confirm SMS/MMS rules and any message‑content limitations.
- Flexible, app-based control: use a trusted third‑party calling or messaging app, bearing in mind data usage and feature differences.
Regardless of method, test thoroughly, monitor usage, and disable forwarding when it’s no longer required. This helps maintain predictable bills, preserves privacy, and avoids missed or duplicated messages.