By Code Alpha AI team ·
Conditional call forwarding sends a call somewhere else only in certain situations: when you are busy, when you don't answer, or when your phone is off. It is how AI call assistants like Alpha Assistant work without asking you to change your number.
Conditional vs unconditional forwarding
- Unconditional forwarding sends every call elsewhere. Your phone never rings.
- Conditional forwarding lets your phone ring first and only forwards the calls you can't take.
For an assistant that answers when you can't, you want conditional forwarding.
The three conditions
- Busy: you are on another call or you decline the call.
- No answer: the phone rings for a set time and you don't pick up. Many networks let you choose 5 to 30 seconds.
- Unreachable: your phone is off, in flight mode or out of coverage.
Common codes (GSM networks)
Most GSM networks, including the major networks in Australia, the UK and many in the US, use these standard codes. Dial them like a phone number:
- Forward when busy:
**67*NUMBER# - Forward when not answered:
**61*NUMBER#(some networks accept**61*NUMBER**SECONDS#, for example 20) - Forward when unreachable:
**62*NUMBER# - Set all conditional forwarding at once:
**004*NUMBER# - Turn all conditional forwarding off:
##004# - Check your settings:
*#61#,*#62#,*#67#
Some carriers use their own codes or an app setting instead, and a few charge for forwarded minutes. Check your carrier's help page before you start.
On iPhone and Android
- iPhone: Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding is unconditional only. For conditional forwarding use the codes above or your carrier's app.
- Android: Phone app > Settings > Calls or Supplementary services > Call forwarding usually offers busy, unanswered and unreachable separately.
How Alpha Assistant uses it
When you set up Alpha Assistant, we give you the forwarding number and the exact steps for your carrier. Then:
- Your phone rings as normal
- If you don't answer within the time you choose (10, 20 or 30 seconds), the call goes to your assistant
- Your assistant answers, introduces itself as an AI and sends you a summary in the app
You keep your number, and you can turn forwarding off at any time with one code. See how it works for the full flow.
Frequently asked questions
Does forwarding cost extra?
On many plans forwarded calls are free or count as normal minutes. Some carriers charge. Check your plan.
Will callers notice the call was forwarded?
No. They hear your phone ring and then your assistant answers.
Can I forward only some callers?
Network forwarding works for all callers. Use your phone's Do Not Disturb with allowed contacts so VIPs ring through while everyone else follows the forwarding rules.