Iphone 14 secret codes are short dialer strings and hidden menus that unlock powerful diagnostics, settings, and shortcuts on your iPhone 14. These codes reveal phone details, network stats, and controls Apple doesn’t plaster on the Settings screen. They matter because they put control back in your hands—helping you troubleshoot, protect your privacy, or squeeze performance from a device you rely on every day.
You don’t need to be a tech wizard to use them. I’ll walk you through seven must-know codes, what each does, how to use it safely, and a few expert-backed tips so you don’t break anything. Read this like you would a trusted friend: straightforward, unapologetic, and useful.
Contents
- Why These Codes Matter For You
- Field Test Mode — 3001#12345# (Enter And Tap Call)
- *Check IMEI Instantly — #06#**
- *Call Forwarding And Status Codes — #21#, #62#, #67#**
- *Control Your Caller ID — #31# and #31#**
- Service Status And Supplementary Services — 43*, 33, 33
- USSD Codes For Balance And Data — Carrier Specific
- Diagnostic And Engineering Codes — Use With Care
- Simple Rules To Stay Safe
- What To Do If Something Goes Wrong
- How Experts Use These Codes
- How To Practice Responsibly
- Bottom Line
- FAQ
Why These Codes Matter For You
These codes are not gimmicks. Mobile network engineers and consumer tech writers use many of them daily. Apple’s own support and independent publications like Macworld and iMore have documented field-test tools and GSM/SS7 codes for years. Using these codes can save you time and money when diagnosing issues or protecting your privacy.
Think of them as small, surgical tools. Used correctly, they give clarity. Used poorly, they can change carrier settings or confuse call routing. I’ll show you both the power and the guardrails.
Field Test Mode — 3001#12345# (Enter And Tap Call)
Field Test Mode is the closest thing your iPhone has to a backstage pass. Dial 3001#12345# and press Call. Your screen will open a detailed, technical interface showing signal strength in decibels (dBm) rather than bars.
Why it helps: dBm is a precise measure; it tells you when your reception is truly weak, not just “one bar.” Researchers and network analysts prefer this metric. If you suspect a hardware problem or want to compare carriers, this is where you start.
Safety note: This menu is read-only for most users but avoid changing settings you don’t understand. Apple documents Field Test basics on its support pages and tech journalists regularly analyze its data when reporting on coverage and performance.
*Check IMEI Instantly — #06#**
Dial *#06# and your iPhone shows its IMEI number. That’s the single most important identifier for your phone.
Why you need it: You’ll use IMEI when reporting a lost or stolen device, checking warranty status, or confirming a secondhand phone is legitimate. Law enforcement and carriers rely on it. Keep it handy but don’t share it publicly.
Practical tip: If you buy a used iPhone, compare the IMEI returned by this code to the one on the back of the box or in the seller’s listing. If they don’t match, walk away.
*Call Forwarding And Status Codes — #21#, #62#, #67#**
These three codes give you a snapshot of call forwarding and call routing.
Dial #21# to see if calls, SMS, and data are being forwarded. #62# shows forwarding when your phone is unreachable. *#67# shows forwarding when you’re busy.
Why this matters: Hidden forwarding can be used maliciously—someone could route calls without your knowledge. Security researchers and privacy advocates recommend checking this occasionally. If you see unexpected rules, contact your carrier to remove them.
How to act: If a forwarding number looks unfamiliar, don’t panic. Call your carrier using an official number (you can find it on your bill or carrier’s website) and ask them to reset forwarding settings.
*Control Your Caller ID — #31# and #31#**
Want to hide your number? Use *#31# before dialing a number to hide your caller ID for that call. To re-enable showing your number for all outgoing calls, go into Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID or contact your carrier.
Why use it: There are etiquette and privacy reasons—maybe you’re making an unexpected call and want discretion. Call-blocking and privacy experts recommend combining this with other privacy settings on iOS for best results.
Heads-up: Some carriers or the receiving party may block anonymous calls. Always test once to see how it behaves with your carrier.
Service Status And Supplementary Services — 43*, 33, 33
Some carriers support codes like 43# to enable call waiting and #43# to disable it. Call barring controls like 33*PIN# can block outgoing calls under certain conditions. These are less common on modern carrier setups but still relevant if you use specialized business plans.
Why this helps: If you manage a family member’s plan or a small business line, toggling call features without logging into carrier dashboards can be faster. Telecommunications engineers still rely on these codes in diagnostics and provisioning.
Warning: Don’t change barring or PIN settings without confirming the defaults with your carrier. Incorrect use can lock you out of sending calls or texts.
USSD Codes For Balance And Data — Carrier Specific
Not all codes are universal. Many carriers offer USSD codes you dial to check prepaid balance, data usage, or add-ons. These are often numbers like *123# or #225# and vary wildly.
Why it’s powerful: When you need a quick balance check and don’t want to open apps or log into a site, a USSD code beats waiting. Mobile operators publish these codes on their websites. Look for your carrier’s support page to find the exact string for your plan.
A practical routine: Save the balance-check code in a Notes entry called “Carrier Quick Codes.” Check monthly to avoid surprise data overages.
Diagnostic And Engineering Codes — Use With Care
Beyond the seven codes above, there are diagnostic commands that carriers, repair shops, and engineers use. These can change network provisioning, reset certain parameters, or invoke testing modes. They are powerful, and I include them here as a warning and a resource pointer—not as something to try casually.
Why mention them: Knowing they exist prevents accidental misuse. If a tech support agent asks you to dial a specific diagnostic string, ask who they are and why. Independent articles on telecom practices and Apple’s developer resources explain safe uses for these advanced tools.
If you ever need to run diagnostics beyond Field Test Mode, prefer official support channels. Apple Stores and certified repair centers have controlled environments where these commands are used safely.
Simple Rules To Stay Safe
- Always double-check any unfamiliar code with an official carrier page or Apple’s support site before dialing.
- Do not share IMEI or diagnostic screenshots on public forums. Treat them like financial info.
- Avoid changing settings you can’t reverse. If a setting acts strange after a code, reboot and then contact your carrier or Apple Support.
- Keep iOS updated. Apple patches network-related bugs regularly, and an updated phone reduces the risk of weird behavior when you use these codes.
Security researchers and privacy experts recommend these steps because network settings can directly affect how your data and calls are routed.
What To Do If Something Goes Wrong
If a code changes a behavior you didn’t expect, don’t panic. Reboot your iPhone. If that doesn’t help, reset network settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings). That clears carrier-level tweaks but won’t erase your photos or apps.
When in doubt, call your carrier from a different phone and ask them to check your line. If a representative asks you to dial a code, insist on their name and a reference and, if necessary, call back using the official number on the carrier’s website.
How Experts Use These Codes
Network engineers use Field Test Mode to map signal strength. Journalists use IMEI and diagnostic data when verifying devices. Privacy specialists recommend periodic checks for call forwarding. These are practical uses, supported by guidance on Apple’s site and reporting from trusted outlets like Macworld and iMore.
If you want deeper technical reading, Apple’s support pages explain device identifiers and network diagnostics. Tech journalists often compare carrier performance using readings from Field Test Mode. Those resources help you learn what numbers or readings actually mean.
How To Practice Responsibly
Try one code at a time. Record the state before and after—screenshots help. If a setting changes and you don’t know how to reverse it, stop and consult. This is the same approach professionals take: cautious, methodical, and informed.
Use the codes for good: quick diagnostics, privacy checks, and carrier comparisons. Don’t use them to access or tamper with networks unlawfully. That’s not just bad manners; it’s illegal.
Bottom Line
These seven compact commands give you serious control: Field Test Mode for signal detail, #06# for IMEI, forwarding checks with #21# and friends, caller ID tweaks, call waiting/barring tools, carrier-specific USSD balance checks, and a reminder that advanced diagnostic strings exist but should be handled by pros. Use them to protect your privacy, troubleshoot with confidence, and get cleaner information than what the Settings app gives you.
Be curious. Be careful. And when you need a second opinion, consult Apple Support or your carrier’s official help pages.
Thank you for reading—use these tools and keep your phone working for you.
FAQ
Are These Codes Safe To Use On An iPhone 14?
Yes, most of these codes are read-only or simply reveal information. Codes like 3001#12345# open Field Test Mode and won’t harm your phone. Avoid changing unfamiliar carrier provisioning codes without guidance. If unsure, check Apple Support or your carrier before dialing.
Will These Codes Void My Warranty?
No. Dialing informational codes like *#06# or Field Test Mode does not void warranty. Changing carrier settings or using diagnostic commands provided by unauthorized sources could cause issues. Use official channels if you’re asked to run advanced diagnostics.
Can These Codes Help Me With Poor Signal Or Dropped Calls?
Absolutely. Field Test Mode gives you precise signal strength in dBm, which helps identify if the issue is hardware, location, or carrier-side. Comparing dBm readings at home and on a neighbor’s phone can clarify whether you need a carrier fix or a new device.
Do Carriers Support All These Codes?
Not every carrier supports every code. USSD balance checks are carrier-specific. Forwarding and standard GSM codes are widely supported, but behavior can differ. Check your carrier’s support pages for exact strings.
No. Treat IMEI and detailed diagnostic output as sensitive information. Share it only with trusted support reps or official repair services.
———————
References
Apple Support provides official guidance on diagnostics and device identifiers (http://support.apple.com/).
Macworld explains Field Test Mode and how to interpret signal readings on iPhone (http://www.macworld.com/article/).
iMore covers iPhone codes and carrier USSD strings for checking balance and diagnostics (http://www.imore.com/).