You only need to know the codes to unlock the many secret functions that are already integrated into your Android phone. These dialer codes can provide a wealth of information about your device, including hardware testing, network information, and battery diagnostics. The best secret codes are included here, along with information on when and how to use them properly.
What are Android secret codes?
You use your Android phone for a lot of things every day, such as texting, calling, browsing, and taking pictures. However, through what are known as Android secret codes, a deeper layer of hidden settings and diagnostic tools can be accessed beneath the familiar UI.
To access advanced menus or hidden features, you enter Android secret codes, which are unique combinations of digits and symbols (such as *#*#4636#*#*), into your phone’s dialer. Developers, technicians, and expert users frequently utilize these to diagnose, test hardware, and configure system-level functions; they are not the same as ordinary settings.
– How USSD and MMI codes unlock hidden features
These codes typically fall into two categories:
- USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data): Communicate directly with your mobile carrier’s system. Example: checking your balance or data usage
- MMI (Man-Machine Interface): Interact with your phone’s hardware or internal software settings. Example: viewing battery health, testing sensors, or resetting network connections.
They give you quick access to diagnostic tools like:
- Phone information and usage stats
- Wi-Fi and signal strength
- Battery health and charging cycles
- Sensor tests (accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.)’
- Factory reset or software version info
– Caution: What to know before using them
While some codes are harmless and informative, others can reset your phone, wipe data, or change system behavior. You should:
- Only use codes you understand
- Avoid typing unverified codes you find online
- Back up your data if trying anything risky
- Be aware that some codes may not work on all devices or carriers
General diagnostic and info codes
Hidden Android codes (also known as USSD or MMI codes) can give you instant access to system-level information and diagnostics, without needing any special apps. These codes are safe to use and give you fast access to key information, perfect for both casual users and tech-savvy troubleshooters.
*#06# – Check your IMEI number:
This instantly displays your phone’s unique IMEI identifier, which is essential for device tracking, warranty claims, and blacklisting lost phones.
*#0*# – Open the general hardware test menu (Samsung only):
This brings up Samsung’s built-in hardware diagnostics suite. You can test the display, touch screen, speakers, sensors, vibration motor, and more, handy for troubleshooting issues or verifying hardware before buying a used phone.
*#*#4636#*#* – Detailed usage stats and phone info:
This code opens a hidden menu with battery health, Wi-Fi and mobile network status, app usage history, and signal strength data. It’s especially useful for checking real-time connectivity and diagnosing app performance or network-related issues.
Battery and usage status
These hidden codes assist you in keeping an eye on the inner workings of your Android phone, particularly with relation to connectivity and battery life. Regular use of these codes, particularly when it comes to power consumption or wireless connectivity, can help you identify minor problems before they become major ones.
*#0228# – Battery status and health (Samsung only):
This diagnostic menu shows real-time battery voltage, level, and temperature, plus charging status and load conditions. It’s useful if your phone is shutting down early, charging slowly, or showing inconsistent battery percentages.
*#*#232339#*#* – Wi-Fi test and performance info:
This runs a wireless network diagnostic showing connection strength, packet loss, and data transfer stats. It’s great for spotting slow Wi-Fi issues or testing routers and signal ranges.
*#*#8255#*#* – Google Talk service monitoring:
Useful for developers or advanced users, this opens a log viewer for Google Services Framework and GTalkService, handy for debugging Google account sync, messaging errors, or push notification problems.
Display and hardware component tests
Without the need for third-party programs, these integrated test menus are particularly helpful for identifying problems with your screen, speakers, or sensors. Before you visit a service center, these checks can assist verify or rule out hardware issues.
*#*#0*#*#* – Full hardware test menu:
This opens a multi-function diagnostic menu that lets you test:
- Red, green, blue, and black screen tones
- Speaker and earphone output
- Vibration motor response
- Accelerometer, proximity, light, and gyroscope sensors
It’s often used by technicians to quickly validate screen and hardware function, especially after repairs.
*#*#2664#*#* – Touchscreen test:
This menu shows a grid overlay that tracks your finger movements to detect any unresponsive zones or dead touch points. Ideal if your screen sometimes ignores taps or swipes.
*#*#0842#*#* – Vibration and backlight test:
This tool activates your phone’s vibration motor and screen backlight in patterns to ensure both components are functioning properly. Use it to test if your phone’s alert system is responsive.
Network and connectivity codes
These codes enable you to explore the technical aspects of your device’s wireless capabilities, such as network resets, Wi-Fi, and GPS. Some of these codes (like the reset) should be handled carefully, but they offer strong tools for performance testing and network problems.
*#*#232338#*#* – Display MAC address:
Shows your phone’s Wi-Fi MAC address, which is a unique identifier used by routers and networks. Helpful for setting up MAC filtering or debugging network connection issues.
*#*#1472365#*#* – GPS status and test:
Opens a GPS diagnostic tool that allows you to:
- Check satellite lock status and signal strength
- Run GPS functionality tests to ensure accurate location tracking. This is useful if your maps app isn’t pinpointing your location correctly.
*#*#7780#*#* – Factory data reset (⚠️ use with caution):
Initiates a full factory reset of your Android phone, removing all apps, data, and settings. This should only be used as a last resort when dealing with severe performance or malware issues.
Manufacturer-specific codes
These secret codes give you deeper access to diagnostics and hardware testing, customized by manufacturer. They’re especially useful for troubleshooting or verifying components after repairs.
Samsung: *#7353# – Quick Diagnostic Menu: Instantly opens a diagnostic tool where you can test:
- Speaker, vibration, mic, Bluetooth, touch screen, and more
- Great for checking functionality before or after service
OnePlus: *#808# – Engineering Mode: Gives you access to advanced hardware testing including:
- Camera lenses, sensors, charging status, and network modules
- Essential for advanced users or technicians
Xiaomi: *#*#6484#*#* – Hardware Test Suite: Launches Xiaomi’s built-in diagnostic panel for:
- Display quality, touch sensitivity, fingerprint scanner, and more
- Handy if you’re experiencing performance or hardware issues
Things to know before using secret codes
Before you dive into Android’s secret code world, keep these key points in mind to avoid accidentally triggering something you didn’t intend:
- Not all codes work on all devices or android versions: Secret codes are often manufacturer-specific and may be disabled or behave differently depending on your Android version, phone model, or carrier. Just because a code works on one device doesn’t mean it will on another.
- Some codes can change settings or wipe data: A few codes trigger factory resets or system-level changes, without prompting for confirmation. Always double-check a code’s function before using it, especially anything that touches backup, reset, or network configuration.
- Use codes from trusted sources only: Stick to well-documented and verified lists from reputable tech sites. Avoid experimenting with unverified codes posted in random forums or videos.
Know how to exit Test Modes: Many diagnostic menus lack a clear “Exit” button. If you’re stuck, simply restart your phone to return to normal use. This is especially helpful after using hardware or engineering test panels.