What are USSD Codes and How to Use Them on Samsung Phones

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes are quick codes that allow you to access hidden features and settings on your Samsung smartphone. These codes can be used to check your phone’s status, enable or disable certain services, and access advanced configuration options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into what USSD codes are, how to use them on your Samsung device, and explore some of the most commonly used codes.

Understanding USSD Codes


USSD codes are a set of characters that you can enter into your Samsung phone’s dialer app, just like you would dial a regular phone number. These codes are used to communicate with the mobile network operator’s computer systems, allowing you to perform various tasks and access specific information.

The structure of a USSD code typically follows this format: *code#. The code itself can be a combination of numbers and special characters, and it varies depending on the desired function or service you want to access.

How to Use USSD Codes on Samsung Phones


Using USSD codes on your Samsung phone is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Open the Phone app or Dialer on your Samsung device.
  2. Tap on the dialer or keypad section to enter the USSD code.
  3. Enter the desired USSD code, making sure to include the asterisk (*) at the beginning and the hash (#) at the end.
  4. Once you’ve entered the code correctly, tap the “Call” or “Dial” button.
  5. Your phone will process the code and display the requested information or prompt you for further actions.

It’s important to note that not all USSD codes work on every Samsung device or with every network operator. The availability and functionality of USSD codes may vary depending on your carrier, region, and the specific Samsung model you’re using.

Common Samsung USSD Codes


Here are some of the most commonly used USSD codes for Samsung phones:

Check Balance and Remaining Data:

  • *#DATA# or *#DATA#123# – Displays your remaining data balance.
  • *#BALANCE# or *#DATA#1# – Shows your account balance and remaining minutes/texts.

Check IMEI Number:

  • *#06# – Reveals your phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, which is a unique identifier for your device.

Check Software and Hardware Information:

  • *#0000# or *#0011# – Displays information about your phone’s software and hardware, including the model number, firmware version, and more.

Enable or Disable Call Forwarding:

  • *21+1xxxxxxxxxx# – Enable call forwarding to a specific number (replace xxxxxxxxxx with the desired number).
  • #67# – Disable call forwarding.

Check or Change Call Barring Settings:

  • *#33# – Displays the current call barring settings for incoming and outgoing calls.
  • #330+1xxxxxxxxxx# – Bar all outgoing calls except to a specific number (replace xxxxxxxxxx with the desired number).
  • #330+1xxxxxxxxxx,+1yyyyyyyyyy# – Bar all outgoing calls except to multiple numbers.
  • #33003# – Bar all outgoing international calls.

Check or Change Call Waiting Settings:

  • *#43# – Displays the current call waiting status.
  • *#43#1# – Enable call waiting.
  • *#43#0# – Disable call waiting.

Network Information and Services:

  • *#0011# – Displays network information, including the network operator, signal strength, and more.
  • *#0782# – Resets the network settings on your Samsung device.
  • *#7465625# – Enables or disables the phone’s field test mode, which provides advanced network diagnostic information.

Reset and Backup:

  • *#7780# – Resets your phone to its factory default settings, erasing all data and settings.
  • *#9900# – Performs a backup of your phone’s data, including contacts, messages, and other information.

Samsung-Specific Codes:

  • #0# – Displays the firmware version and hardware information for your Samsung device.
  • *#1234# – Provides access to the Samsung service menu, which includes options for testing various hardware components.
  • *#0837# – Shows the phone’s Bluetooth address and device name.

It’s important to exercise caution when using USSD codes, as some codes can potentially reset or modify critical settings on your device. Always double-check the code before entering it, and ensure you understand its purpose and potential consequences.

Advanced USSD Code Usage


While the codes listed above are some of the most commonly used ones, USSD codes can also be used for more advanced functions, such as:

Network Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: USSD codes can provide detailed information about your network connection, signal strength, and cell tower information, which can be useful for troubleshooting network-related issues.

Configuring Advanced Network Settings: Some USSD codes allow you to modify advanced network settings, such as enabling or disabling specific network bands, changing the preferred network mode (2G, 3G, 4G, etc.), and more.

Accessing Hidden Menus and Test Modes: Certain USSD codes can grant access to hidden menus and test modes on your Samsung device, which are typically used by service technicians or developers for testing and debugging purposes.

Carrier-Specific Services: Network operators sometimes provide their own set of USSD codes that allow customers to access carrier-specific services, such as activating or deactivating certain features, managing add-ons, or checking promotional offers.

It’s important to note that using advanced USSD codes can potentially cause unintended consequences or even damage your device if used incorrectly. It’s recommended to exercise caution and only use advanced codes if you have a good understanding of their purpose and potential impact.

Conclusion


USSD codes are a powerful tool that can unlock hidden features and settings on your Samsung smartphone. While most users may only need to use a handful of common codes, understanding how USSD codes work and how to use them can be incredibly valuable for troubleshooting, network diagnostics, and accessing advanced configuration options.

Remember to always double-check the code before entering it and exercise caution when using advanced or carrier-specific codes. If you’re unsure about the purpose or potential consequences of a particular code, it’s best to consult your network operator or seek assistance from a qualified technician.

Mohamed SAKHRI
Mohamed SAKHRI

I'm the creator and editor-in-chief of Tech To Geek. Through this little blog, I share with you my passion for technology. I specialize in various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android, focusing on providing practical and valuable guides.

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