How to Forward Your iPhone Calls: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you need to forward your iPhone calls, eh? Whether you’re juggling multiple devices, stepping away for a bit, or simply want someone else to handle your calls, call forwarding is a handy trick. Here’s the straight dope on how to do it, followed by answers to common questions that’ll turn you into a call forwarding guru.

The most direct way to forward calls from your iPhone is through the Settings app. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

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. It’ll turn green.
5. Tap on Forward To and enter the phone number where you want your calls to be forwarded.
6. Return to the Call Forwarding screen. The number you entered should now be displayed beneath “Forward To.”

That’s it! Now all incoming calls to your iPhone will be automatically forwarded to the specified number. Remember to disable call forwarding when you no longer need it, following the same steps and toggling the switch off.

FAQs: Your Call Forwarding Questions Answered

Here’s a deep dive into everything else you need to know about iPhone call forwarding.

1. Is Call Forwarding Free on iPhone?

This is where things get a bit tricky. Call forwarding itself doesn’t cost anything from Apple directly. The feature is built into the iPhone’s operating system. However, your mobile carrier might charge you for the forwarded calls. Think of it this way: your carrier is essentially routing your calls to another number, which uses their network. Check with your carrier about their call forwarding policies and potential charges. Some carriers offer call forwarding as part of a package, while others charge per minute. Always clarify with your service provider to avoid surprise bills.

2. How Do I Know If My iPhone Call Forwarding Is Working?

A few indicators will tell you if call forwarding is active. First, when you navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding, the switch should be green and the “Forward To” field should display the phone number you’ve set. Second, most iPhones will show a small phone icon with an arrow pointing away in the status bar at the top of your screen. This visual cue indicates that your calls are being forwarded. To be absolutely sure, ask a friend or family member to call your iPhone and verify that the call is being routed to the correct forwarding number.

3. Can I Forward Calls to Multiple Numbers Simultaneously?

Unfortunately, no, you can only forward calls to one number at a time using the built-in iPhone call forwarding feature. The “Forward To” field only allows for a single phone number. If you need to forward calls to multiple numbers, you’d need to explore more advanced solutions, potentially involving a business phone system or a third-party app that offers that functionality. These solutions usually come with a cost, but they offer greater flexibility.

4. What Happens to Voicemail When I Use Call Forwarding?

This depends on your carrier settings. In most cases, voicemail will be handled by the forwarding number’s voicemail system. So, if you forward your calls to your office phone, your voicemail messages will be left on your office phone’s voicemail. However, some carriers allow you to configure your voicemail settings so that voicemails are still directed to your iPhone’s voicemail, even when calls are forwarded. Contact your carrier to understand how your voicemail is configured when call forwarding is active.

5. How Do I Turn Off Call Forwarding on My iPhone?

Turning off call forwarding is just as easy as turning it on. Go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. Simply toggle the Call Forwarding switch to the “off” position. The switch will turn gray. The phone icon with the arrow in the status bar should disappear, indicating that call forwarding is disabled.

6. Can I Forward Calls to an International Number?

Yes, you can usually forward calls to an international number, but there are a few things to consider. You’ll need to enter the full international dialing code and phone number when setting up call forwarding. Also, be aware of the potential international calling charges. Your carrier will likely charge you international rates for forwarded calls, which can be significantly higher than domestic rates. Check with your carrier about their international call forwarding rates before setting it up.

7. Will Call Forwarding Drain My iPhone’s Battery Faster?

Generally, call forwarding itself does not significantly drain your iPhone’s battery. The process of forwarding a call is handled by your carrier’s network infrastructure, not your iPhone’s processor. However, if you’re in an area with poor cellular reception, your iPhone might work harder to maintain a connection, which could lead to slightly increased battery drain.

8. What’s the Difference Between Call Forwarding and Call Waiting?

Call forwarding sends incoming calls to another number. Call waiting, on the other hand, alerts you to incoming calls while you’re already on a call. With call waiting, you can choose to answer the new call, put the first caller on hold, or send the new caller to voicemail. Call forwarding actively redirects all calls, while call waiting simply notifies you of additional incoming calls.

9. Can I Forward Calls from a Specific Contact Only?

The built-in iPhone call forwarding feature does not offer the option to forward calls from specific contacts only. It’s an all-or-nothing solution. If you need that level of granularity, you might consider exploring third-party apps or features offered by some business phone systems. These solutions often provide more advanced call management capabilities.

10. What if I Don’t See the Call Forwarding Option in My Settings?

If you don’t see the “Call Forwarding” option under Settings > Phone, it could be one of a few things. First, make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can sometimes cause features to disappear. Second, your carrier might not support call forwarding. Some carriers, particularly prepaid carriers, may not offer this feature. Contact your carrier to confirm whether they support call forwarding and if there are any specific requirements.

11. Can I Use Call Forwarding When My iPhone Is Turned Off?

No, you cannot use the iPhone’s built-in call forwarding feature when your iPhone is turned off. The phone needs to be powered on and connected to the network for call forwarding to work. However, some carriers offer a network-based call forwarding service that allows you to forward calls even when your phone is off. Contact your carrier to inquire about this type of service.

12. Does Call Forwarding Affect My Data Usage?

Call forwarding itself does not affect your data usage. It only involves the routing of voice calls. Your data plan is used for things like browsing the internet, streaming videos, and using apps. Call forwarding simply redirects incoming voice calls to another phone number.

By now, you should be well-versed in the art of iPhone call forwarding. Remember to always check with your carrier regarding potential charges, and happy forwarding!