Top USSD Codes You Need to Know (Airtel, BSNL, Vi, and Jio)

In today’s fast-paced digital world, your smartphone is more than just a device for making calls or sending messages. It’s a portal to a universe of information, entertainment, and connectivity. One often-overlooked feature of your device is the use of USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes. These are short codes that allow you to access hidden services, features, and settings on your phone, offering faster and more direct control over your network experience.

In the world of mobile networks, especially in India, USSD codes have become indispensable for users to quickly check balance, manage data, activate or deactivate services, and more. In this article, we will explore what USSD codes are, their benefits, how to use them, and the essential codes for major Indian telecom operators like Airtel, BSNL, Vi, and Jio.

What Are the Types of Secret Codes for Android?

Before diving into USSD codes specifically, let’s look at the different types of secret codes available for Android users. Secret codes for Android smartphones can be divided into several categories. These codes, usually short sequences of numbers and symbols, are used to access special features and hidden menus on your phone. Below are some of the most common types:

a. Service Codes:

Service codes are the most commonly used secret codes. These allow you to check your account balance, activate or deactivate specific network services, check data usage, or activate special offers. Essentially, these codes are designed to simplify the management of your mobile account.

For instance, you might use a service code to check your remaining talk time balance, subscribe to a new data pack, or check the validity of your current plan.

b. Testing and Diagnostic Codes:

Many secret codes give you access to diagnostic tools or device testing. These codes let you test the various hardware components of your Android device. For example, you can test the touchscreen, check battery health, or ensure that your sensors like the accelerometer or gyroscope are working correctly.

One of the most popular testing codes is ##4636##, which opens the testing menu where you can see information about your phone’s battery, Wi-Fi, and usage statistics.

c. IMEI and Device Information Codes

Every mobile phone has a unique identifier called the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). Using specific secret codes, you can easily check the IMEI of your device, which is crucial for unlocking your phone or tracking it in case of theft.

To view your device’s IMEI number, simply dial *#06#.

d. Hidden Android Settings Codes:

Some codes open up Android’s hidden menus, where you can access system settings or perform certain actions that are normally not available to regular users. These menus allow you to change things like the frequency band, network settings, and more.

An example is ##7780##, which opens the reset menu for Android phones, enabling you to restore the phone to its factory settings.

e. Developer Mode Codes:

Some codes unlock the developer options on your Android device. These settings are generally hidden and meant for developers who are testing apps and other advanced features on Android. However, many advanced users find these settings useful for debugging apps or enabling certain features like USB debugging.

To enable Developer Mode on Android, you usually need to go to Settings > About phone, and tap Build number seven times. But certain codes like ##7594## can also trigger specific developer-related actions.

What Are USSD Codes?

USSD stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, and it is a protocol used by mobile phones to communicate with the network’s servers in real-time. Unlike SMS (Short Message Service), which stores messages on the phone or server, USSD operates on the fly, meaning that any data or service is immediately processed by the network and returned to the phone.

These codes are typically a string of numbers and sometimes symbols, used to send quick commands to the carrier’s network. USSD codes are commonly used to check mobile balances, data usage, and even activate or deactivate services like call forwarding or international roaming.

Unlike Internet-based services or apps, USSD codes don’t require data connectivity. This makes them ideal for users who may not have access to the internet or those using feature phones that cannot run complex apps.

How USSD Codes Work

When you dial a USSD code, your phone sends a request to the mobile network. This request is then processed by the carrier’s infrastructure, which generates a response that is sent back to your phone in real-time. The response may be a message, a list of options, or even a simple acknowledgment that the request has been completed.

For instance, when you dial *121# to check your balance, the mobile network checks your account, gathers the required data, and instantly displays your balance on the screen.

What Are the Benefits of USSD Codes?

USSD codes offer several advantages that make them an invaluable tool for managing your mobile services:

a. Instant Access:

USSD codes offer real-time results. For example, if you want to know how much data you’ve used, a quick code like *121# will give you the information instantly.

b. No Internet Required:

Unlike many modern apps and services that require a stable internet connection, USSD codes work without needing Wi-Fi or mobile data. This is especially useful in areas with poor network coverage.

c. Wide Compatibility:

USSD codes work on both feature phones and smartphones, making them accessible to a wide range of users. No need for fancy smartphones or an app – just dial the code.

d. Ease of Use:

Using USSD codes is straightforward and does not require any technical knowledge. Simply dial the code, and the network will respond with the relevant information or options.

e. Manage Your Network:

You can use USSD codes to manage a variety of network settings, including activating data plans, checking balances, setting up voicemail, or even troubleshooting network issues. This gives you more control over your account.

How to Use Secret Codes for Android?

Using secret codes on Android is simple, and there’s no need for a third-party app to execute them. Here’s how you can use them:

a. Dial the Code:

The most common way to use secret codes on Android is by dialing them directly into your phone’s dialer. For instance, if you want to check your network status, you can dial #06# to view your IMEI number, or ##4636##* to access testing and diagnostics.

b. Follow the On-Screen Instructions:

After dialing the code, your phone will either show the result on your screen or prompt you to take an action. For example, if you use a code to check your data balance, your phone will display the available balance or offer you a menu with further options.

c. Advanced Options

Some codes unlock hidden or developer-specific menus, where you can tweak advanced settings. While these can be useful, it’s best to avoid making changes unless you’re sure of what you’re doing. Incorrectly changing settings in these menus can lead to device malfunctions or connectivity issues.

d. Accessing Carrier Services

For carrier-specific USSD codes (such as checking balance or data), simply dial the code provided by your telecom operator. After entering the code, follow the prompts or read the response displayed on your screen.

Things to Consider Before Trying These Secret Codes

While USSD codes are incredibly useful, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you start using them:

a. Device Compatibility:

Not all codes work on every device, as some codes are specific to certain manufacturers or network providers. For example, the code ##4636## may work on some devices but not others. If you’re unsure about which code works for your device or carrier, check the official website of your network provider or consult with customer service.

b. Network Provider Restrictions:

Some USSD codes may be restricted or changed by your network provider based on region or service plan. For example, a code to check data balance might not work for postpaid customers, or certain network services may not be available in your area.

c. Security Concerns:

Although USSD codes are safe to use, some codes may be used maliciously by unauthorized third parties to access your personal information. Always be cautious about using codes that come from untrusted sources.

d. Permanent Changes:

Some codes can cause permanent changes to your device settings or network configuration, especially those related to hidden menus. For instance, factory reset codes like ##7780## can erase all data from your device. Always double-check the purpose of a code before you use it to avoid making unwanted changes to your device or network settings.

USSD Codes for Airtel, BSNL, Vi, and Jio

Now, let’s dive into some of the most commonly used USSD codes for popular telecom providers in India. These codes will help you manage your account and access essential services.

Airtel USSD Codes:

Balance Check: Dial *121# or *123#
Data Balance: Dial 1212# or 12310#
Recharge: Dial *121# or *888#
Activate 2G/3G/4G Data Pack: Dial 1211#
Customer Care: Dial 121
Main Account Balance: Dial *123#
Check My Number: Dial *282#

BSNL USSD Codes:

Balance Check: Dial *123#
Data Balance: Dial *112#
Customer Care: Dial 1503
Activate Data Packs: Dial *444#
Prepaid Plan Activation: Dial *555#
Check Validity of Plan: Dial *123#

Vi (Vodafone Idea) USSD Codes:

Balance Check: Dial *111# or *555#
Data Balance: Dial 1116# or 1212#
Activate Data Packs: Dial *121#
Customer Care: Dial 199
Check Data Usage: Dial 1116# or 1214#

Jio USSD Codes:

Balance Check: Dial *333#
Data Balance: Dial 1111#
Activate Data Packs: Dial *999#
Customer Care: Dial 198 or 199
Check Data Usage: Dial *123#
Activate Jio Apps: Dial *500#

These codes can save you time and allow you to access various services directly from your phone’s dialer.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored the fascinating world of USSD codes and their significance for managing mobile network settings. From their ability to provide instant access to network services to their wide compatibility across devices, USSD codes offer a convenient, hassle-free way to manage everything from balance checks to activating special plans, without needing an internet connection or smartphone apps.

For Android users, these secret codes can unlock hidden features and settings, offering a deeper level of control over your device’s performance. With just a few simple key presses, you can access important information like your IMEI number, run diagnostics on your device, or even manage network settings that may otherwise require navigating through a complicated menu.

However, before using these codes, it’s crucial to consider factors like device compatibility, network restrictions, and the potential for making irreversible changes to settings. Some codes may be region-specific or available only for certain plans, so it’s always a good idea to check with your network provider for the latest USSD codes.

For users of India’s leading telecom operators—Airtel, BSNL, Vi, and Jio—there are a number of handy codes to manage everything from balance checks and data usage to activating special services. Armed with these codes, you can stay on top of your mobile network usage, troubleshoot issues quickly, and make adjustments as needed.

Why You Should Make Use of USSD Codes

USSD codes are an often-underestimated but essential tool for mobile users. They provide a quick, simple, and reliable way to manage your network settings without the need for a data connection or smartphone apps. Whether you want to check your balance, activate a new plan, or even troubleshoot a connectivity issue, these codes are your one-stop solution.

For users on India’s top telecom networks—Airtel, BSNL, Vi, and Jio—knowing and using the right USSD codes can save time, reduce frustration, and help you stay connected with essential services. With no need for a complex setup or configuration, these codes ensure that anyone, regardless of their tech-savviness, can easily access these services.

Whether you are a frequent data user, someone who enjoys trying out new plans, or someone who simply wants to keep track of their usage, USSD codes offer a fast and reliable way to do so. The next time you need to check your mobile balance, activate a data pack, or access a hidden setting, you’ll be just a few digits away from unlocking the full potential of your device.

So, why wait? Give these codes a try and enjoy a seamless experience with your mobile service provider.