What are the secret codes for Android phones?

08 Apr.,2024

 

We've put together a list of the best secret codes for Android phones and tablets to help you access and unlock non-obvious features of Android. Some of them will work for all Androids, but other codes are device-specific.

How to Use Android Secret Codes

All phones that run Android have a built-in protocol called USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), which allows users to quickly access features on their phone regardless of the manufacturer.

To use Android secret codes, go to the Phone app, open the dial pad, and enter a code. You don't need to tap Call. If your phone supports the code, it should execute automatically.

Best Codes for Finding Phone Information

These codes can tell you important information about your phone's hardware and software:

  • *#*#2663#*#* – Display the touch-screen version information.
  • *#*#44336#*#* – Display your phone’s build time.
  • *#*#3264#*#* – Check your RAM version.
  • *#*#1111#*#* – Display FTA software version.
  • *#*#2222#*#* – Display FTA hardware version.
  • *#*#232337#*# – View Bluetooth device address.
  • *#06# View your phone's IMEI number.
  • *#*#232338#*#* – Display your Wi-Fi network's MAC address.
  • *#*#4986*2650468#*#* – View your phone's firmware information.
  • *#*#34971539#*#* – View your camera firmware information.
  • *#*#1234#*#* – View your phone’s firmware information including the PDA software version.
  • *#03# – View the NAND flash serial number.

Best Codes for Managing Phone Settings

Use these codes as shortcuts to perform various helpful tasks:

  • *#*#7594#*#* – Change power button behavior.
  • *#*#197328640#*#* – Access Service Mode to perform tests and change phone settings.
  • *3001#12345#* – Access Field Mode and view information about local networks and cell towers.
  • *#3282*727336*# – View storage and data consumption information.
  • *#*#4636#*#* – Display battery information, WLAN status, and usage statistics.
  • *#*#225#*#* – Display Calendar data stored on your phone.
  • *#2263# – Display the RF band selection.
  • *3282# – Get a text message with your billing information.
  • *#0*# – Enter test mode (only available on some devices).

Best Codes for Troubleshooting an Android

If your phone is malfunctioning, try these codes to troubleshoot your Android and identify the problem:

  • *#*#1472365#*#* – Perform a GPS test.
  • *#*#2664#*#* – Test the touch-screen.
  • *#*#526#*#* – Perform a WLAN test.
  • *#*#232331#*#* – Test Bluetooth.
  • *#*#7262626#*#* – Perform a field test.
  • *#*#0842#*#* – Test vibration and backlight.
  • *#*#0283#*#* – Perform a packet loopback test.
  • *#*#0588#*#* – Perform a proximity sensor test.
  • *#*#0673#*#* or *#*#0289#*#* – Perform an audio and melody tests.
  • #0782*# – Perform a real-time clock test.
  • #*#426#*# – Run Google Play Services diagnostics.
  • *#0589# – Perform a light sensor test.
  • *#0228# – Check your battery status and details.
  • *#7284# – Access USB 12C mode control.
  • *#872564# – Access USB logging control.
  • *#745# – Open the RIL dump menu.
  • *#746# – Open the Debug dump menu.
  • *#9900# – Access System dump mode.
  • *#3214789# – Display the GCF mode status.
  • *#9090# – Display diagnostic configuration.
  • *#7353# – Open the Quick test menu.
  • *#*#273282*255*663282*#*#* – Make a backup of your media files.
  • *#*#7780#*#* – Factory reset your Android phone.

A factory reset removes all personal data from your phone, so back up your Android before resetting your device.

Best Codes for Managing Calls and Messages

Use these codes to manage call waiting, call forwarding, and more:

  • *#67# – Display call forwarding information on your phone.
  • *#61# – See how long it takes to forward calls.
  • *31# – Turn on caller ID.
  • #31# – Turn off caller ID.
  • *43# – Turn on call waiting.
  • #43# – Turn off call waiting.
  • *5005*7672# – See your SMS message center number.

Best Codes for Specific Android Phones

These secret codes only work for specific brands and models:

  • 7764726 – Open the hidden services menu (Motorola Droid).
  • 1809#*990# – Open the hidden services menu (LG Optimus 2x).
  • 3845#*920# – Open the hidden services menu (LG Optimus 3D).
  • *#0*# – Open the hidden services menu (Samsung Galaxy S3).
  • *#011# – Display network connection and serving cell information (Samsung phones).

FAQ

  • Do I have to use secret codes to use my phone properly?

    No. Most of these codes are for troubleshooting or just a more technical way to check or change settings. Almost all of the settings mentioned above are accessible in other ways.

  • Do iPhones also have secret codes?

    Yes, but the codes aren't always identical. You do not need to use these codes to get the most out of your iPhone.

Understanding USSD Codes on Android Devices

USSD codes offer a direct line for Android phone users to access hidden features and useful information. They’re a bridge between the phone and the network services it can tap into.

Introduction to USSD Codes

USSD stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, which might sound complicated, but it’s simply a quick access code you enter on your phone’s dialer. These codes start a real-time connection with your mobile network—imagine it as a conversation between your smartphone and the service provider. This Man-Machine Interface (MMI) lets you get information or request services without navigating through apps or web pages.

Advantages of Using USSD Codes

One of the biggest pluses of using USSD codes is that they don’t need data. This means you can retrieve information or perform specific phone functions even when you’re out of data or in a spot with poor internet connectivity. They’re also immediate, delivering the info straight to your screen without delay. Since they’re built into the GSM network standard, these codes are universal across Android devices, making them incredibly handy no matter what Android phone you own.

Common Android USSD Codes

USSD codes vary by country and network provider, but there are a few standard ones that tend to work universally on Android phones. For instance:

  • Check IMEI Number: *#06#
    The IMEI is a unique identifier for your phone. Handy for when you’re dealing with phone repairs or if your phone is lost.

  • Access Device Information: *#*#4636#*#*
    This will bring up detailed information about your phone’s battery, usage statistics, and Wi-Fi connection.

Remember, while these codes are useful, not all of them might work on every Android device as manufacturers can sometimes disable or alter them. It’s a smart move to use these codes wisely and ensure that they’re compatible with your specific phone model and network provider.

Accessing Device Information

Secret USSD codes for Android devices unlock a wealth of data about your handset. They’re handy shortcuts for tech enthusiasts to get device information quickly.

Retrieving IMEI and MAC Address

Your phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique identifier, and the MAC (Media Access Control) address is specific to the phone’s network interface. To fetch your IMEI, dial *#06#, and it will appear on screen. For the MAC address, typically, one would navigate through the settings menu, but a USSD code shortcut for this information, if available, varies between manufacturers.

Checking Battery and Storage Status

Your battery health and storage data are vital for keeping your Android running smoothly. While Android typically doesn’t have a USSD code to check battery status, some manufacturers might offer a code that gives you a direct look at battery information and storage statistics. Otherwise, this data is commonly available through the settings menu under ‘Battery’ and ‘Storage.’

Android Secret Codes for Hardware Testing

These codes can test various hardware components to ensure they’re working correctly:

  • Camera Firmware: Some Androids let you check the camera firmware, which is the software helping your camera function, with a code like *#*#34971539#*#*.
  • System Dump: To collect system dump data, use the code *#9900#. This can help with debugging by gathering system logs and other info.
  • Hardware Version: To get phone info about the hardware version, try *#*#2222#*#* or *#*#3264#*#*.

Remember, not all Android devices support these secret codes due to variations in manufacturers and models.

Advanced Operations Using USSD Codes

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes, also known as “Quick Codes” or “Feature codes”, are a set of MMI (Man-Machine Interface) codes that enable users to access hidden features and settings on their Android smartphones. These codes can unlock powerful functions that can alter core settings, run diagnostics, and even reset the phone to factory settings.

Factory Reset and Backup

Factory Reset:

  • ##7780## – This MMI code resets the device to factory settings without affecting the system and application files. Users should note that this removes Google account settings, system and application data, and downloaded apps.
  • ##7378423## – Accesses a hidden Sony service menu that offers options to perform a factory reset and software update.

Backup:

  • ##273283255663282*## – Starts the device’s backup process for media files.

Network and Connectivity Settings

Network Connection and SIM Card:

  • ##4636## – Displays information about the phone’s data usage and provides settings for the mobile network operator’s info.
  • ##27673855## – Conducts a full factory reset, this relentless command will wipe everything, so it should be used with the utmost caution.

Engineering and Service Modes

Engineering and Service Modes:

  • ##197328640## – Opens the hidden Service Mode where advanced users can scrutinize various elements of their device, including the software and hardware.
  • ##service## (replace ‘service’ with your mobile network operator’s code) – Provides operator-specific service modes.
  • *#9090# – Diagnostics configuration.

Diagnostics:

  • ##8351## – Enables voice dialing log mode, helping in diagnostics.

Using USSD codes offers a level of control and customization over one’s device that’s not commonly found in standard settings menus. However, they should be used wisely as they can significantly alter the device’s functionality, sometimes irreversibly. Always make sure to back up important data before experimenting with these codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring USSD codes on Android devices unlocks a new layer of control and information. These questions cover the essentials, providing a guide to what you need to know.

What are the standard USSD codes available on Android devices?

Standard USSD codes on Android include #06# for IMEI number, #0# for a range of tests, and ##4636##* for detailed phone information. These codes usually work across various Android devices.

How can I access network settings on my Android phone using USSD codes?

To access network settings, ##4636## is your go-to USSD code. It opens up a menu with information on your phone’s network, usage, and WiFi statistics.

Where can I find a complete list of USSD codes for mobile phones?

A full list of USSD codes can often be found in user manuals, official device websites or specialized tech forums that discuss Android secrets and tips.

Can you provide a list of Android secret codes for advanced features?

Yes, some of the codes for advanced features include ##34971539## for camera information, and ##232338## for the MAC address of the Wi-Fi network module. Remember, these codes can vary by manufacturer.

How do I use USSD codes to unlock hidden features on my Android smartphone?

By dialing USSD codes like ##4636## for usage statistics or ##7780## for a factory data reset, you unlock hidden features or information panels within Android.

What USSD code retrieves Android mobile network information?

The code ##4636## is used to access Android mobile network information, which will display details about network type, strength, and other related stats.

What are the secret codes for Android phones?

USSD Codes for Android: Unlock Hidden Features Now