USSD stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data. Made up of the characters and digits of a phone keypad, USSD
codes have multiple functionalities: mobile banking, callback services and menu-based services to name three of the
primary uses. Running a USSD code does not require an internet connection.
When a USSD code is dialed it establishes a real-time connection between a phone and another device – more often than not a server or a network. While it is similar to SMS, one distinct difference is that a USSD code is a real-time two-way connection which remains active as long as the communication route remains open. For this reason, the responses to USSD code-based interactions are more-or-less instantaneous.
It is possible to carry out a range of tasks with USSD codes, including:
When a USSD code is dialed it establishes a real-time connection between a phone and another device – more often than not a server or a network. While it is similar to SMS, one distinct difference is that a USSD code is a real-time two-way connection which remains active as long as the communication route remains open. For this reason, the responses to USSD code-based interactions are more-or-less instantaneous.
What are USSD codes used for?
It is possible to carry out a range of tasks with USSD codes, including:
Mobile banking
from checking account balances to transferring money, USSD codes enable users to access almost all the key banking functions.USSD payments
mobile phone users can make payment for purchases by texting the merchant. Merchants will either add the cost to the customer’s phone bill or charge an online payment portal. The merchant will receive the money through an online transfer.Checking credit balance and credit reload
Users of prepaid cards can check their balance by dialing a USSD code. Most mobile service providers allow users to top-up their credit through USSD as well.Callback services
Service-based companies can allow customers to request a callback if they require further details on or would like to sign up for one of their offerings. For instance, after presenting a proposal to a potential customer, insurance or investment companies could give them the option of making a callback request after they have had time to go through the information.Surveys and feedback
companies can send simple surveys or feedback questions once a product has been purchased or a service has been completed. The customer could be asked to choose from a few options which will give the company an instant gauge of performance and quality.Order status updates
Vendors offering delivery services can make use of USSD codes to keep customers informed of when their order has been dispatched.
What are the advantages of USSD codes?
USSD codes provide a host of benefits to users of mobile networks.
- They do not require an internet connection. Therefore USSD code-based services and functions are available on multiple types of devices and in areas with sketchy or no internet.
- They operate via applications and do not run on a device. Because they do not need specific processing hardware and do have to be stored on a device, even feature phones with limited memory capacity can easily utilize USSD codes.
- Every subscriber of a mobile network can access USSD code-based services.
- USSD codes are free for mobile network users. This means that anyone, regardless of spending capacity, can avail themselves of USSD code-based functions.
How do you run USSD codes?
Running a USSD code is quick and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Find the right code
To get started, locate the specific USSD code you need. Each service (like checking your balance or transferring money) has its own unique code. Your mobile provider usually lists these on their website or in the SIM card’s user guide.Open your phone’s dialer
Once you have the code, open your phone’s dialer, just like you would if making a call.Enter the USSD code
Type in the USSD code, which usually begins with an asterisk (*) and ends with a hash (#). For example, *123# might be the code for checking your balance.Press call
Tap the call button to send your code. Instead of connecting you to someone else, it links you directly to the service you’re looking for.Follow the prompts
You’ll see a response on your screen almost immediately – some codes show you the information directly, while others bring up a menu of options. For instance, a banking USSD code might show options like:- Check balance
- Transfer money
- Pay bills
- View transactions
Simply press the number for the option you want and hit send.
