The top Android secret codes that everyone should know

The Android settings menu helps you manage apps, check battery health, diagnose network issues, and scan for threats. It also displays details such as your device’s name, software version, and memory size.

You can use secret codes for quick access to these features. Just dial a number on your phone to trigger an action or navigate a hidden diagnostic menu.

Some secret codes are compatible with all Android devices, while others are limited to third-party Android skins, such as One UI for Samsung phones.

Android short codes: the basics

Android secret short codes are numbers you dial to access hidden menus or actions on your phone. You can dial them to test functions, troubleshoot problems, or check information about your device.

These codes work through two protocols: the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data protocol (USSD) and the Man Machine Interface (MMI). Both protocols function similarly, requiring you to dial codes to access secret menus.

USSD and MMI codes share the same structure. They start with an asterisk (*), end with a hash (#), and use a combination of numbers, asterisks, and hash symbols in between. You’ll open the phone dialer app to type and dial them.

Most codes automatically run when you enter the last hash (#) symbol. Some require you to tap the call button to execute them.

The purpose of both protocols is different.

The USSD protocol allows your phone to communicate with your service provider’s computers, which process the request and send a response. It supports secret codes that fetch basic services like balance inquiries and prepaid top-ups without an internet connection or going through a long menu.

Meanwhile, the MMI protocol supports secret codes that take you to your phone’s internal settings and functions. That means the phone processes the code without sending a request to the network provider.

Most secret codes run on all Android devices, while others are manufacturer-specific. If a code doesn’t work on your phone, its manufacturer doesn’t support it.

We focus on universal codes that work on most Android phones. They allow you to debug your device without relying on other hacks. Later, we list the exclusive codes for Samsung, Motorola, and OnePlus.

For some of the codes to work, you need the default Phone app or the Phone by Google app as your dialer. Some codes do not work with custom dialer options (including Samsung’s).

Find your device’s IMEI number (*#06#)

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is a unique 15-digit identifier number assigned to phones running on a GSM network.

If your device is lost or stolen, you can use its IMEI number to block it. This way, the thief or person who finds it can’t access your contacts, messages, and other personal content.

Typically, you’ll find this number on the product box your device was packaged in. It’s also in the Settings menu, but dialing the secret code displays it faster. Type *#06# into your phone’s dialer, and the IMEI number appears.

Display phone information and usage statistics (*#*#4636#*#*)

Among the most useful Android secret codes is *#*#4636#*#*. It displays the phone info, usage statistics, and Wi-Fi details.

You’ll see battery usage and Wi-Fi details, find options to set a preferred network type, and be able to run ping tests.

Find your phone’s SAR values and regulatory labels (#07#)

A device’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) value shows you the rate of radio frequency (RF) that your body absorbs from your smartphone.

Smartphones mostly emit non-ionizing energy, which is less likely to kill you than radiation from X-rays and similar machines. It lacks the energy needed to break apart the atoms and molecules in your body.

Still, you want to be on the safe side. Knowing this information helps you practice habits that reduce your exposure, such as reducing interaction with your device.

Dial #07# to find your device’s SAR value and other regulatory information.

Get software and hardware info (*#12580*369#)

If you want to find your phone’s software and hardware information, dial *#12580*369# to get the details instead of navigating through the Settings menu.

Find your phone’s MAC address (*#*#232338#*#*)

The Media Access Control address (MAC) is a 12-digit number your device sends to routers, switches, and access points for identification.

If multiple devices are connected to your router, you can check connected devices using unfamiliar MAC addresses and remove them.

It also comes in handy when contacting network administrators for support. Dial *#*#232338#*#* to check your current MAC address.

View calendar details (*#*#225#*#*)

This code checks the agenda of all linked Google calendars on your smartphone. Dial *#*#225#*#* to display the number of birthdays, holidays, and events on your calendar.

Perform Google Play Services diagnostic (*#*#426#*#*)

If Google Play Services misbehaves on your smartphone, run the *#*#426#*#* code to get Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) diagnostics.

FCM is a Google service that allows push notifications and messaging between servers and devices.

You’ll see the current status of Google Play Services, whether it’s connected or not, and know that you aren’t the only affected user.

Perform a GPS test (*#*#1472365#*#*)

The Global Positioning System (GPS) on your phone tells you exactly where you are on Earth. When it misbehaves, your navigation apps show incorrect directions, miscalculate distances, or take longer to estimate your location.

Dial *#*#1472365#*#* to run a quick test and determine if it’s a hardware or software issue.

Turn on and turn off caller ID (*31#)

If you don’t want to display your caller ID (phone number) when you call someone, use the *31# code to turn it off. If your caller ID is turned off, running the *31# code activates it.

Activate call waiting services (*43#)

If you want to be notified when someone calls you during an ongoing call, activate call waiting services on your phone with the *43# code.

You’ll hear a unique sound and decide whether to place the current call on hold and answer the incoming one or ignore the incoming call.

If you don’t want the distraction, turn off the service with the same code.