Do I need to port my number to use an AI receptionist?

No. You forward calls from your existing number, so nothing is ported and you can turn it off at any time.

What code forwards calls on a mobile?

On most networks, **21*NUMBER# forwards every call, **67* when busy, **61* when not answered and **62* when unreachable; ##002# cancels all forwarding.

Can I forward only after hours?

Yes — forward every call outside opening hours and only busy or unanswered calls during the day.

How to Forward Your Business Calls to an AI Receptionist

You do not need a new number to use an AI receptionist. Your customers keep ringing the number on your van, sign and website; you simply forward the calls you want it to answer. Nothing is ported, and you can switch it off again at any time.

Choose how much it answers

Every call — it is your receptionist, full stop.
When you are busy — you are already on the phone.
When you don't answer — after a set number of rings.
When you're unreachable — phone off or no signal.

Most businesses start with "busy" and "no answer", then switch to "every call" out of hours.

Mobile phones: the standard codes

On most mobile networks you can set forwarding by dialling these codes, replacing NUMBER with your Silux Voice number:

Forward every call: **21*NUMBER#
Forward when busy: **67*NUMBER#
Forward when not answered: **61*NUMBER#
Forward when unreachable: **62*NUMBER#
Cancel all forwarding: ##002#

You can also set it in your phone's settings, usually under Phone → Call forwarding. Some networks charge for forwarded calls, so check your tariff.

Landlines and VoIP systems

Landline providers each have their own diversion codes or an online control panel, and business VoIP systems let you set a forward or an extension per number. Ask your provider for "call diversion" on busy, no answer or all calls. If you would rather not touch it, our team can walk you through it on a free onboarding session — see setup.

If your landline is still on the old copper network, the UK switch-off due to complete by January 2027 means you will be moving to a digital line anyway; our switch-off guide explains what to do, and you keep your number either way.

Prefer a new number?

In the UK, Silux Call, our phone service, allocates you a new number. Outside the UK we allocate you a local number in your own country.

Test it before you go live

Set the receptionist up and test it in a chat in your dashboard.
Turn on forwarding for "no answer" only.
Ring your own number from another phone and let it ring out.
Check the call summary — then widen forwarding when you are happy.