Unlock Android With Confidence: Secret Codes That Actually Help In 2026

Android has many hidden shortcuts that live behind special number codes in the Phone app. Used correctly, these codes can show deep device information, open diagnostic menus, and help you test hardware without installing extra apps. Used carelessly, some of them can change network settings or even erase your data.

This guide walks you through what these secret codes are, how they work, and fifty seven of the most useful examples. You will see exactly what each code does, who it is for, how risky it is, and which normal Settings menu does the same job.

Key takeaways

• Secret codes use the same technology as USSD service and diagnostic menus, so they can run quickly without extra apps.
• Many useful codes only show information, but some can change network behavior or factory reset your phone. Treat them like power tools, not toys. Ridge Infosoft
• Almost everything you can see with a code also exists somewhere in Settings, which is usually safer for beginners.
• Codes do not always work. They depend on your phone brand, Android version, and carrier restrictions. XDA Developers
• Never dial a code that comes from a random pop up, spam message, or unknown caller, especially for call forwarding or “virus removal” tricks.

What Android secret codes are and why they exist

Android secret codes are short command strings that you dial in the Phone app. They usually start with stars and hash symbols and sometimes end automatically when you type the last character.

Behind the scenes, many of these codes use a telecom protocol called USSD, or Unstructured Supplementary Service Data. USSD codes let your phone talk quickly with the mobile network to query things like call forwarding and account status. eSIMradar

Other codes are not network related at all. They are hooks that phone makers build into the dialer so you can jump straight into hidden diagnostic menus, test modes, or firmware information screens. That is why:

• The same code can behave differently on two phones.
• Some codes only work on certain brands such as Samsung, LG, Motorola, or Google Pixel. Dr.Fone
• New Android versions sometimes disable older codes for safety.

Think of codes as shortcuts on top of normal Settings and support tools, not as magic keys that everyone must use.

How to use Android secret codes safely

Step by step use

1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Make sure you are on the dial pad view, not in Contacts or Recents.
3. Carefully type the full code. Many codes run as soon as you enter the last character, so do not press the call button unless you are sure the code needs it.
4. Wait a few seconds. If your phone supports the code, you will usually see one of three things:
   • An information popup
   • A new menu screen
   • A network message response
5. If nothing happens, do not keep trying the same code again and again. It likely does not exist on your device.

Safety first checklist

Before you experiment with any secret codes, run through this quick safety checklist.

• Confirm your exact phone model and Android version
  • Open Settings, then About phone, then look for the model name and Android version.
  • If you search for codes online, always include both.
• Make at least one backup
  • Turn on Google backup under Settings, then System, then Backup.
  • Make sure photos are synced to Google Photos or another cloud service.
  • Copy irreplaceable files to a computer or external drive.
• Know how to back out of a menu
  • If a code opens a menu that looks technical or confusing, press the back button or the home gesture immediately.
  • Do not toggle unknown check boxes or radio buttons “just to see what happens”.
• Decide when to stop and ask a professional
  • If you see options related to radio bands, network locks, or firmware flashing, back out.
  • When you are troubleshooting serious problems like no signal or repeated crashes, talk to your phone maker or a trusted repair shop before changing advanced service options.

What if nothing happens

If a code does nothing, it usually means one of these:

• Your brand or carrier disabled that code for safety.
• You are using a third party dialer that does not pass the code correctly. Some diagnostics, such as the Google Play Services code, only work with the Google Phone app. Stack Overflow
• Your Android version removed or replaced that function.

You can often reach the same information through Settings, or by using support apps from your manufacturer or carrier.

Secret codes for phone information

These codes mainly show information about your device. They are usually low risk because they do not change anything. Verification comes from Android documentation, Phonecheck and other technical guides.

For each entry you will see:

• Code
• What it does
• Who it is for
• Risk level
• Safer Settings path when available
• Code: *#06#
  • What it does: Shows your device IMEI number, which is the unique hardware identifier for your phone. phonecheck.com
  • Who it is for: Anyone who needs the number for device registration, theft reports, or warranty support.
  • Risk level: Low. View only.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then About phone then IMEI.
• Code: *#07#
  • What it does: Shows the Specific Absorption Rate information on many phones, which indicates measured radio frequency exposure levels. XDA Developers
  • Who it is for: Users concerned about radio exposure, compliance checks.
  • Risk level: Low. View only.
  • Settings alternative: On some phones under Legal information or Regulatory labels.
• Code: ##2663##
  • What it does: Shows touch screen firmware version information.
  • Who it is for: Technicians and advanced users checking for firmware issues.
  • Risk level: Low if you only read the info.
  • Settings alternative: None direct. Use manufacturer support tools.
• Code: ##44336##
  • What it does: Shows build time and software version details.
  • Who it is for: Anyone checking if the software build matches what support expects.
  • Risk level: Low.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then About phone then Software information.
• Code: ##3264##
  • What it does: Shows RAM version information on many devices.
  • Who it is for: People checking memory details for troubleshooting or resale listings.
  • Risk level: Low.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then About phone then Memory, or About device.
• Code: ##1111## and ##2222##
  • What they do: Show FTA software and hardware version information on some phones.
  • Who they are for: Service centers and advanced users.
  • Risk level: Low if you only read data.
  • Settings alternative: None direct. Usually used in service documentation.
• Code: ##232337#*#
  • What it does: Shows Bluetooth device address on some models.
  • Who it is for: Network and repair technicians, curious users.
  • Risk level: Low, but avoid sharing this address publicly.
  • Settings alternative: Sometimes under Settings then About phone then Status.
• Code: ##232338##
  • What it does: Shows Wi Fi MAC address.
  • Who it is for: People adding the phone to MAC filtered routers or doing network audits.
  • Risk level: Low, but MAC address is sensitive information in some environments.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then About phone then Status or Wi Fi settings.
• Code: ##49862650468##* and ##1234##
  • What they do: Show detailed firmware information, sometimes including PDA, modem, and CSC versions on Samsung and similar phones.
  • Who they are for: Support staff, custom ROM enthusiasts, and advanced troubleshooters.
  • Risk level: Low if you only read.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then About phone then Software information.
• Code: ##34971539##
  • What it does: Shows camera firmware details on some models.
  • Who it is for: Camera troubleshooting and repair.
  • Risk level: Medium. Some older devices allowed firmware changes from this screen, which can brick the camera if misused.
  • Settings alternative: Use the camera support section in the manufacturer app or website. Do not apply updates from this menu unless official instructions tell you to.
• Code: *#03#
  • What it does: Shows NAND flash serial number on some devices.
  • Who it is for: Service centers and advanced diagnostics.
  • Risk level: Low for viewing.
  • Settings alternative: None. This is rarely needed for normal users.

Secret codes for managing settings and hidden menus

These codes act as shortcuts into powerful menus. Some are safe, others carry risk if you change values without guidance.

• Code: ##4636##
  • What it does: Opens a testing menu that shows phone information, battery statistics, Wi Fi details, and sometimes radio configuration.
  • Who it is for: People diagnosing signal issues, data problems, or battery drain.
  • Risk level: Medium. Viewing information is safe, but changing radio settings can affect connectivity.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then Network and internet, and Settings then Battery.
• Code: ##225##
  • What it does: Shows calendar events stored on the device, including some synced accounts. HardReset
  • Who it is for: Users checking whether events are really saved on the phone.
  • Risk level: Low. View only.
  • Settings alternative: Open the Calendar app directly.
• Code: ##7594##
  • What it does: On some older devices, changes what happens when you long press the power button.
  • Who it is for: Advanced users who understand power menu behavior.
  • Risk level: Medium, because you can remove the normal power off dialog on some phones.
  • Settings alternative: Use the built in power menu options in Settings where available. Newer Android versions often ignore this code.
• Code: ##197328640##
  • What it does: Opens Service Mode on many Samsung devices, with long lists of tests and configuration screens. Scribd+1
  • Who it is for: Technicians and very advanced users only.
  • Risk level: High, because radio, band, and network settings can be changed.
  • Settings alternative: For normal users, never change anything here. Use standard network settings and official support tools instead.
• Code: #3282727336*# and *3282#
  • What they do: Show data usage and sometimes storage statistics on certain carriers.
  • Who they are for: People checking carrier billed data usage directly from the network.
  • Risk level: Low if you only view.
  • Settings alternative: Settings then Network and internet then Data usage, plus your carrier app.
• Code: *#2263#
  • What it does: Opens RF band selection on many Samsung phones.
  • Who it is for: Radio engineers and field testers.
  • Risk level: High. Choosing the wrong band can break mobile connectivity.
  • Settings alternative: Never change this unless your carrier or manufacturer gives precise instructions.
• Code: #0#
  • What it does: Opens a general test menu on many Samsung devices with quick checks for display, vibration, speaker, camera, and more.
  • Who it is for: Anyone testing hardware functions.
  • Risk level: Low if you only run tests.
  • Settings alternative: Use built in Samsung Members diagnostics or similar support apps.
• Code: 3001#12345#
  • What it does: On many iPhones this opens Field Test mode with detailed signal information. On many Android devices, it is ignored or reused.
  • Who it is for: Primarily iPhone users and network engineers. For Android it is mostly historical.
  • Risk level: Low, but do not expect it to work on Android.
  • Settings alternative: Use carrier or manufacturer signal test apps instead.

Troubleshooting and hardware test codes

These codes help you confirm whether hardware is working correctly. Many appear in service documentation and Android troubleshooting guides.

Because they run tests directly on components, they can sometimes stress hardware or confuse less confident users. Treat them like lab instruments.

• Code: ##1472365##
  • What it does: Runs a GPS test menu on many Samsung devices.
  • Who it is for: People troubleshooting location issues.
  • Risk level: Medium. Testing is safe, but changing assistance data or configuration is advanced.
  • Settings alternative: Use a GPS test app from a reputable developer, and check location settings under Settings then Location.
• Code: ##2664##
  • What it does: Tests the touch screen by letting you draw and check response.
  • Who it is for: Anyone checking for dead zones on the screen.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: ##526##
  • What it does: Runs a Wi Fi test on some devices.
  • Who it is for: Advanced troubleshooting of wireless problems.
  • Risk level: Low to medium. Viewing is safe, but avoid changing hidden options.
• Code: ##232331##
  • What it does: Tests Bluetooth.
  • Who it is for: Users checking Bluetooth hardware when pairing keeps failing.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: ##7262626##
  • What it does: Field test menu on many devices.
  • Who it is for: Network engineers and technicians.
  • Risk level: Medium. Use this for viewing information only.
• Code: ##0842##
  • What it does: Tests vibration motor and backlight. Ridge Infosoft
  • Who it is for: Anyone checking if vibration or display backlight works correctly.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: ##0283##
  • What it does: Packet loopback test, mainly for engineers.
  • Who it is for: Very advanced users or service centers.
  • Risk level: Medium.
• Code: ##0588##
  • What it does: Proximity sensor test.
  • Who it is for: Users whose screen does not turn off during calls.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code pair: ##0673## and ##0289##
  • What they do: Audio and melody tests on many devices.
  • Who they are for: Anyone checking speakers and basic sound output.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: #0782*#
  • What it does: Real time clock test on some phones.
  • Who it is for: Technicians and advanced users.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: ##426##
  • What it does: Opens Google Play Services diagnostics, including Firebase Cloud Messaging status, on supported phones.
  • Who it is for: Developers and users troubleshooting push notification issues.
  • Risk level: Low to medium. Viewing is safe, but avoid changing endpoints.
  • Settings alternative: Check Google Play Services status through the Play Store and app permissions.
• Code: *#0589#
  • What it does: Light sensor test on some devices.
  • Who it is for: Users who suspect auto brightness is inaccurate.
  • Risk level: Low.
• Code: *#0228#
  • What it does: Battery status and quick refresh on many Samsung phones.
  • Who it is for: Users investigating strange battery readings.
  • Risk level: Medium. Use it only to view information, not to recalibrate unless official documentation instructs you.
• Code: *#7284#, *#872564#, *#745#, *#746#, *#9900#, *#3214789#, *#9090#
  • What they do: Advanced USB mode controls, logging, radio interface layer dumps, debug dumps, system dumps, GCF mode status, and diagnostic configuration on many Samsung phones. Dr.Fone
  • Who they are for: Service centers and radio engineers.
  • Risk level: High. These menus can change deep system behavior and may affect performance, connectivity, and logging.
  • Settings alternative: For normal users, do not use these. Stick to standard developer options and official Samsung or OEM support tools.
• Code: *#7353#
  • What it does: Opens a quick test menu on some Samsung devices..
  • Who it is for: Anyone who wants a simple hardware test set.
  • Risk level: Low if you only run tests.
• Code: ##273282255663282*##
  • What it does: Opens a media backup interface on some older devices.
  • Who it is for: Advanced users backing up media internally.
  • Risk level: Medium. Confusing for beginners, and not present on many modern phones.
  • Safer alternative: Use Google Photos, cloud backup, or manual file transfers instead.
• Code: ##7780##
  • What it does: Starts a factory reset on many devices, wiping user data and apps.
  • Who it is for: Only users who have a full backup and intentionally want to reset the phone.
  • Risk level: High. This code can erase your data.
  • Safer alternative: Use Settings then System then Reset options, which provide clearer warnings and sometimes keep more personal content.

Call and message management codes

These codes control caller ID, call waiting, and call forwarding through network features. They are based on GSM and USSD standards, and behavior can vary by carrier and country. eSIMradar

• Code: *#67#
  • What it does: Shows current call forwarding settings when your line is busy on many GSM networks.
  • Who it is for: Users who want to know where calls go if they are on another call.
  • Risk level: Low when used for viewing.
  • Settings alternative: Carrier app or website, or Call settings inside the Phone app.
• Code: *#61#
  • What it does: Shows forwarding settings when you do not answer after a time delay.
  • Who it is for: People checking how long the phone rings before voicemail.
  • Risk level: Low when used for viewing.
• Code: *31# and #31#
  • What they do: On many networks, control whether your caller ID is shown for outgoing calls. Codes can differ by region. geckobeach.com
  • Who they are for: Users who want one time caller ID hiding or showing.
  • Risk level: Low, but remember that hiding your number can raise suspicion in some contexts.
  • Settings alternative: Phone app then Settings then Caller ID, or through carrier account settings.
• Code: *43# and #43#
  • What they do: Turn call waiting on and off on many GSM networks.
  • Who they are for: Users who want to receive a second call while on a call, or who want to disable that behavior.
  • Risk level: Low.
  • Settings alternative: Phone app then Settings then Call waiting.
• Code: 50057672#
  • What it does: Shows the SMS service center number on many devices.
  • Who it is for: Advanced troubleshooting when SMS messages do not send.
  • Risk level: Low if you only view.
  • Settings alternative: Some messaging apps show the SMS center in advanced settings, but often this is carrier controlled.

Very important safety note about call forwarding scams

Recently, cybercrime units in multiple regions have warned that scammers call victims pretending to be bank staff or courier agents, then pressure them to dial strange USSD codes starting with numbers such as twenty one, sixty one, or sixty seven. These codes can silently enable call forwarding, which lets criminals intercept one time passwords and verification calls.

If any stranger ever tells you to dial a code, hang up and contact your bank or carrier using official numbers. If you suspect call forwarding was enabled, many networks allow you to cancel all forwarding by dialing a code such as double hash zero zero two hash, but always check with your carrier for the correct command.

Brand specific codes and limits

Some codes only work on particular brands or older models. They are often undocumented in public manuals and may disappear in later software updates.

• Code: 7764726
  • What it does: Hidden services menu on some Motorola Droid models.
  • Risk level: High. Service menus can change network and system behavior.
• Code: 1809#*990# and 3845#*920#
  • What they do: Service menus on older LG Optimus devices.
  • Risk level: High. Use only under guidance from LG support or professional technicians.
• Code: *#011#
  • What it does: Shows network connection details on many Samsung phones. Dr.Fone
  • Risk level: Medium. Viewing is safe, but do not change anything unless you know exactly what you are doing.

Remember that brand specific codes are the most likely to stop working after a major Android update. Always treat them as “reported on some devices” rather than guaranteed features.

Why a secret code might not work

When you type a code and nothing happens, it does not always mean you made a mistake. Common reasons include:

• Phone maker disabled that code in newer firmware for safety or simplicity.
• Your carrier blocks some network related codes, especially for call forwarding and billing.
• You use a custom dialer that ignores diagnostic hooks, which is common on some brands. Stack Overflow
• The code existed mainly on older devices and was removed in modern Android versions.

If a code fails, search the Settings app for the feature name, or check your manufacturer support pages. Often you will find a clearer path with proper labels and warnings.

Key benefits of knowing these codes

• Faster troubleshooting when something feels wrong
• Clear evidence to share with support, such as IMEI, firmware versions, and test results
• Ability to confirm whether a problem is hardware or software in nature
• More control over call behavior and network information, when used carefully

Used thoughtfully, secret codes can save time, reduce guesswork, and help you talk to support teams in a more precise way.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using factory reset codes without a complete backup
• Poking around in service mode and changing radio or band options without expert guidance
• Trusting every list of “secret tricks” you see on social media, especially when the source is unknown
• Dialing any code that pops up in a supposed virus warning ad or browser popup
  • Real antivirus tools do not ask you to dial USSD codes. Most of these popups are scams trying to get control of your calls or data.
• Assuming that a code which worked on your old phone will behave the same on your new one

When in doubt, step back, search for official documentation, and prefer Settings menus over codes.

Expert tips and real life examples

Scenario one: Checking IMEI before selling your phone

You are about to sell your phone and want to confirm that the IMEI on the box matches the device.

1. Dial *#06# to display the IMEI on screen.
2. Compare it with the number on the box and your purchase receipt.
3. If the numbers do not match, stop the sale and check with your seller or carrier.

Next steps:

• Provide the correct IMEI to the buyer for their records.
• Keep your own copy in a password manager or secure note, so you can report it if the phone is ever stolen. GeeksforGeeks

Scenario two: GPS looks wrong in navigation apps

Maps show your position several streets away from where you really are.

1. Check basic settings first under Settings then Location and make sure high accuracy mode is enabled.
2. If the problem persists, on a compatible Samsung phone you can run ##1472365## to open the GPS test menu and see whether satellites are visible and locked.
3. If the test shows poor satellite lock even in open outdoor areas, the issue may be hardware or antenna related.

Next steps:

• Try another navigation or GPS test app to confirm results.
• If multiple apps agree that GPS is weak, contact your manufacturer or a trusted repair center.

Scenario three: Battery drain after a software update

You install an update, and suddenly the battery seems to vanish by midday.

1. First, use Settings then Battery to see which apps are consuming the most power.
2. On a compatible phone, dial ##4636## and open the battery information and usage statistics. Look for:
   • Battery health estimate where available
   • Screen on time since last full charge
   • Any unusual radio usage states
3. If the battery health is poor, that points to hardware aging more than software. If health looks fine but a single app shows very high usage, focus on that app. Cashify

Next steps:

• Uninstall or restrict background activity for misbehaving apps.
• If health readings stay very low and the phone is old, budget for a battery replacement.
• If the phone is new and health looks fine but drain is extreme, contact support with screenshots of both Settings and code based battery menus.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Do I need secret codes to use my Android phone properly?

No. Every essential function is available through normal Settings menus or official apps. Secret codes are mainly shortcuts and diagnostic tools.

Q2: Are these codes safe for complete beginners?

Only some of them. Information only codes such as *#06# are generally safe, but anything that opens “Service mode”, “System dump”, or “Factory reset” should be avoided unless you fully understand the consequences and have backups. Ridge Infosoft

Q3: Do iPhones also have secret codes?

Yes. GSM and LTE capable iPhones support many of the same network service codes for call forwarding and caller ID control, and they have their own field test codes. However, you can still use the phone fully without ever touching these codes. Medium

Q4: Can using a code void my warranty?

Viewing information rarely affects warranty. However, using codes to modify radio configuration, debug features, or undocumented service options can give manufacturers a reason to deny support if something goes wrong. When in doubt, ask your phone maker or carrier first.

Q5: What should I do if a fake virus popup tells me to dial a code?

Close the browser or app immediately. Do not tap the code, do not paste it into the dialer, and do not call any number shown. Run a reputable security scan from the Play Store and, if you are worried about call forwarding scams, contact your carrier using an official number to confirm that your line is safe.

Conclusion

Android secret codes can be powerful allies when you know what they do, when to use them, and when to walk away. They are best treated as advanced shortcuts, not everyday tools. Information only codes like IMEI display or basic test menus are low risk, while factory resets, service modes, and radio configuration screens carry much higher risk.

Whenever possible, start with the normal Settings app and your manufacturer or carrier support pages. Use secret codes mainly to confirm what you already suspect, or to gather clear technical information you can share with professionals. With backups in place, realistic expectations, and a healthy dose of caution, you can explore these hidden corners of Android without putting your data or device at risk.