Step By Step Guide How To Set Up Your Orange Answering Machine On Any Mobile Phone

Orange, one of Europe’s leading telecommunications providers, offers a reliable and user-friendly voicemail service known as the \"answering machine.\" Whether you're using an iPhone, Android device, or another mobile platform, setting up your Orange answering machine ensures you never miss an important call—even when you’re unreachable. This guide walks you through the entire setup process, from activation to personalization, troubleshooting, and advanced features.

Understanding the Orange Answering Machine

The Orange answering machine is not a physical device but a network-based voicemail system that stores incoming voice messages when you’re unable to answer. It activates automatically under certain conditions: when your phone is off, out of coverage, busy, or when you don’t pick up after several rings. Once enabled, callers can leave messages that you can retrieve later via phone call, app, or SMS notification.

Unlike third-party apps, Orange's built-in voicemail integrates directly with your SIM card and network settings, making it accessible across devices without requiring internet connectivity for setup. However, modern smartphones may offer enhanced features such as visual voicemail if supported by your plan and device.

“Voicemail remains a critical communication tool, especially in areas with spotty data coverage. Orange’s system is designed for reliability first.” — Laurent Dubois, Senior Network Engineer at Orange France

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Setting up your Orange answering machine requires no special app or software. The process uses standard dialing codes and voice prompts. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Ensure your SIM is active: Insert your Orange SIM card into your mobile phone and power on the device. Wait for the network signal (preferably “Orange” or “ORANGE”) to appear.
2. Dial the voicemail access number: Press and hold the 1 key on your phone’s keypad. This shortcut automatically dials *86#, Orange’s default voicemail number. Alternatively, dial *#123# to check your current voicemail status.
3. Follow the automated voice prompts: After connecting, you’ll hear a recorded message in French or English (language depends on your region and phone settings). If prompted, press 0 to proceed in English.
4. Create a PIN code: You will be asked to set a 4-digit password (PIN) to protect your messages. Choose something memorable but avoid obvious combinations like 1234 or your birth year.
5. Record your greeting: The system will prompt you to record a personalized welcome message. Speak clearly into the microphone. Example: “Hi, you’ve reached Alex. I’m unavailable right now. Please leave your name, number, and a brief message.”
6. Confirm completion: Once done, the system will confirm activation. Hang up and test by calling your number from another phone.

Tip: If the long press of '1' doesn't work, manually dial *86# and call. This method works universally across Android and iOS.

Customizing Your Voicemail Settings

After initial setup, you can adjust various settings to better suit your needs. These options are accessed through the same voicemail line (*86#) or via USSD codes.

Change Your Greeting

To re-record your message, dial *86#, enter your PIN, and select option 3 (usually labeled “Change greeting”). Choose between a standard “I’m unavailable” message or a custom recording.

Adjust Ring Time Before Voicemail Answers

You can control how many seconds your phone rings before diverting to voicemail. Use this USSD code:
**61*+3386*11*XX# where XX = number of seconds (e.g., 15, 20, 25). Replace +3386 with your local Orange voicemail number if different.
To cancel: ##61#

Enable SMS Notifications for New Messages

By default, Orange may send an SMS when you receive a new voicemail. To activate:
Dial **002*+3386# then press call. This forwards missed calls and voicemails to the voicemail system with alerts.

Feature	USSD Code	Action
Check voicemail	*86#	Call to listen to messages
Set ring delay	**61*+3386*11*20#	Rings 20 sec before voicemail
Activate SMS alert	**002*+3386#	Sends notification on new message
Deactivate all forwarding	##002#	Resets all call diversions

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper setup, users sometimes encounter problems accessing or receiving voicemail. Here are frequent issues and solutions:

• “Voicemail not available” error: Ensure mobile data or cellular network is active. Try restarting your phone or reinserting the SIM card.
• No SMS notification: Verify that SMS services are enabled. Check with Orange customer service to confirm voicemail alerts are activated on your account.
• Can’t access messages abroad: Roaming restrictions may block voicemail retrieval. Dial your full international number (e.g., +33 6 XX XX XX XX) instead of *86# when overseas.
• Forgotten PIN: Contact Orange support at 3900 (from Orange phone) or [phone] (from abroad). Identity verification required.

Tip: When traveling internationally, save your full Orange voicemail number in your contacts as “Orange VM” to avoid dialing errors.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Smooth Transition

Maria, a freelance designer based in Lyon, recently switched to an Orange prepaid plan. She initially missed client calls due to poor Wi-Fi and assumed voicemail was broken. After reading online, she dialed *86# and discovered her voicemail wasn’t set up. Following the voice prompts, she created a PIN, recorded a professional greeting, and enabled SMS alerts. Within hours, she received her first voicemail from a potential client—leading to a new project. By customizing her ring time to 25 seconds, she reduced false voicemails during brief signal drops.

“I didn’t realize how simple it was,” Maria said. “Now I feel more connected, even when I’m offline.”

Essential Checklist for Full Setup

Use this checklist to ensure your Orange answering machine is fully operational:

• ✅ Insert active Orange SIM card
• ✅ Power on phone and confirm network connection
• ✅ Dial *86# (or long-press '1')
• ✅ Set a secure 4-digit PIN
• ✅ Record a clear, professional greeting
• ✅ Test by calling your number from another phone
• ✅ Enable SMS notifications using **002*+3386#
• ✅ Adjust ring duration with **61*+3386*11*20#
• ✅ Save voicemail number internationally (+33 86)
• ✅ Periodically check for new messages

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Orange voicemail on any phone?

Yes. As long as your device accepts a standard Orange SIM card and connects to the network, you can set up and use the answering machine. This includes iPhones, Android phones, and basic feature phones.

Is there a cost for using Orange voicemail?

For most individual plans in France, voicemail setup and message retrieval from your own phone are free. However, calling your voicemail number from another phone may incur standard call charges. Check your tariff plan for details.

How many messages can I store?

Orange typically allows up to 20 voice messages with a maximum length of 3 minutes each. Older messages are overwritten when storage is full. Download or transcribe important messages promptly.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Setting up your Orange answering machine is a quick yet impactful way to stay reachable and professional. With just a few taps and a short call, you gain a dependable backup for communication—whether you're in a meeting, traveling, or simply out of range. The system works silently in the background, capturing messages so you don’t have to worry about missed opportunities.

Don’t wait until you’ve missed an important call. Take five minutes today to activate and personalize your voicemail. Ensure your greeting is clear, your PIN is secure, and your notifications are on. A well-configured answering machine reflects reliability and attention to detail—qualities that matter in both personal and professional life.

💬 Have questions about your Orange voicemail setup? Share your experience or ask for help in the comments below—we’re here to help you stay connected.