How to Set Up Call Divert on iPhone: Your Comprehensive Guide

So, you need to divert your iPhone calls? You’re in the right place. This isn’t some mystical tech art – it’s a straightforward process that puts you firmly in control of your incoming calls. Whether you’re heading into a meeting, traveling abroad, or just need some peace and quiet, knowing how to forward your calls is a digital superpower. Let’s unlock it.

Here’s the direct path to setting up call divert on your iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap on Phone.
3. Select Call Forwarding.
4. Toggle the Call Forwarding switch to the on position.
5. Tap on Forward To and enter the phone number you want to forward your calls to.
6. Return to the Call Forwarding screen; the number you entered should now be displayed.

That’s it! Your iPhone will now forward all incoming calls to the number you specified. To disable call forwarding, simply toggle the Call Forwarding switch back to the off position.

Now, let’s delve into the nuances and explore common questions you might have. We’ll go beyond the basics to ensure you’re a call forwarding maestro.

Understanding Call Forwarding on Your iPhone

Call forwarding, also known as call diverting, is a feature that allows you to automatically redirect incoming calls to a different phone number. This is incredibly useful in a variety of situations, offering flexibility and ensuring you don’t miss important calls.

Benefits of Using Call Forwarding

• Never miss important calls: Forward calls to a colleague, family member, or answering service when you’re unavailable.
• Maintain privacy: Use a separate phone number for certain situations and forward calls to your primary number when needed.
• Stay connected while traveling: Forward calls to a local number to avoid international roaming charges.
• Manage business calls efficiently: Route calls to different departments or team members based on availability.
• Improved work-life balance: Divert calls to a secondary device to enable rest and downtime after working hours.

Troubleshooting Common Call Forwarding Issues

Sometimes things don’t go quite as planned. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to address common call forwarding issues:

• Verify the Number: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct number in the “Forward To” field. A simple typo can prevent call forwarding from working.
• Check Network Connectivity: Ensure your iPhone has a stable network connection (cellular or Wi-Fi). A weak signal can interfere with call forwarding functionality.
• Restart Your iPhone: A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches that might be affecting call forwarding.
• Update Your iOS: Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
• Contact Your Carrier: If you’ve tried all the above steps and call forwarding still isn’t working, contact your mobile carrier. They can check your account settings and troubleshoot any network-related issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Call Forwarding on iPhone

Let’s address some common questions about call forwarding to solidify your understanding.

1. Will I Still Receive Notifications for Forwarded Calls?

No, when call forwarding is active, your iPhone won’t ring or display notifications for the diverted calls. The calls are directly routed to the specified number. Your device behaves as if the incoming call doesn’t exist.

2. Can I Forward Calls to International Numbers?

Yes, you can forward calls to international numbers. However, be aware that international call forwarding charges may apply. Check with your mobile carrier to understand their international call forwarding rates.

3. Does Call Forwarding Work When My iPhone is Turned Off?

This depends on your carrier. Some carriers support unconditional call forwarding, which works even when your phone is off or has no signal. Others may only forward calls when your phone is on and has network connectivity. Contact your carrier to confirm their policy.

4. How Do I Check if Call Forwarding is Currently Enabled?

Simply navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. If the Call Forwarding switch is in the on position, call forwarding is enabled. The number you’re forwarding to will also be displayed.

5. Is There a Cost to Use Call Forwarding?

The cost of call forwarding depends on your mobile carrier and your specific plan. Some carriers offer call forwarding as part of their standard plans, while others may charge a fee for each forwarded call or a monthly subscription fee. Contact your carrier to determine the applicable charges.

6. Can I Forward Calls to Voicemail?

While there isn’t a dedicated “Forward to Voicemail” option within the iPhone settings, you can forward calls to your own voicemail number. Usually this can be accomplished by entering your own number. If this does not work, you should contact your carrier for the appropriate settings.

7. Can I Set Up Conditional Call Forwarding (e.g., Forward When Busy or Unanswered)?

No, the native iPhone call forwarding feature only offers unconditional call forwarding (all calls are forwarded). To set up conditional call forwarding (forward when busy, unanswered, or unreachable), you typically need to use carrier-specific codes or features. These may vary by carrier and region.

8. How Do I Cancel Call Forwarding?

To cancel call forwarding, go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding and toggle the Call Forwarding switch to the off position. This will immediately disable call forwarding, and incoming calls will start ringing on your iPhone again.

9. Will Call Forwarding Drain My Battery?

No, call forwarding itself does not significantly drain your battery. The iPhone simply redirects the incoming call at the network level. It doesn’t require any continuous processing or data usage on your device.

10. What Happens to Text Messages When Call Forwarding is Enabled?

Call forwarding only applies to voice calls. Text messages (SMS/MMS) are not forwarded and will still be delivered to your iPhone. If you need to forward text messages, you may want to consider using a service like Google Voice or a third-party app that offers text message forwarding capabilities.

11. Can I Forward Calls to Multiple Numbers Simultaneously?

No, the native iPhone call forwarding feature only allows you to forward calls to one number at a time. To forward calls to multiple numbers simultaneously, you would need to use a call forwarding service or a VoIP provider that offers this functionality.

12. Does Call Forwarding Work While on a Call?

No. Native Call Forwarding on the iPhone diverts ALL incoming calls. To manage calls whilst on the phone, you need to enable call waiting. To do this go to Settings > Phone > Call Waiting and then toggle to the on position.

Taking Control of Your Calls

Mastering call forwarding on your iPhone is all about understanding its limitations and leveraging its strengths. Whether you’re aiming for uninterrupted focus, seamless travel connectivity, or efficient business call management, this simple feature puts you in the driver’s seat.

So go ahead, set up call divert on your iPhone and experience the freedom and flexibility it offers. It’s your call, literally!