How to dial an extension can be confusing if you don’t know the right steps. Whether you’re calling an office, a customer service center, or a friend with an extension number, knowing how to do it correctly will save you time and effort. Instead of listening to long automated menus, you can reach the right person quickly with just a few extra taps.
In this guide, we will show you how to dial an extension on iPhone and Android. We will also teach you how to save extension numbers to your contacts so you don’t have to type them every time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll never struggle with phone extensions again!
What is an Extension Number and Why Do You Need It?
An extension number is a short set of numbers linked to a main phone number. It helps you reach the right person in an office or business without going through a long menu. Businesses and offices use extensions to manage calls better.
When you call a company, you may hear a message asking you to enter an extension. Instead of waiting or talking to an operator, you can dial the extension and get connected faster. This saves time and helps you talk to the right person quickly.
Knowing how to dial an extension is important if you call businesses often. It makes your calling experience smooth and hassle-free. You can also save extension numbers to your contacts to make future calls easier.

How to Dial an Extension on iPhone Without Waiting
Dialing an extension on an iPhone is simple when you know the right steps. You don’t have to wait through long menus if you enter the extension correctly.
- Open the Phone app and tap on Keypad.
- Dial the main phone number you want to call.
- Long press the asterisk (*) key until a comma (,) appears. This creates a short pause.
- Enter the extension number after the comma.
- Tap the green call button to dial.
The comma tells your phone to wait before dialing the extension. If you need a longer pause, you can add more commas. This method helps you connect quickly without delays.
How to Save a Contact with an Extension on iPhone
If you call someone with an extension often, saving it as a contact can make things easier. This way, you don’t have to enter the extension manually every time.
- Open the Phone app and go to Keypad.
- Enter the main number, then long-press (*) to add a comma.
- Type the extension number after the comma.
- Tap Add Number, then select Create New Contact.
- Enter the contact name and details, then tap Done to save.
Now, whenever you call this contact, your phone will automatically dial the extension. You won’t have to enter it manually again.
How to Add an Extension to an Existing Contact on iPhone
If you already have a contact saved but need to add an extension, you can update their number easily.
- Open the Contacts app and find the contact.
- Tap Edit in the top right corner.
- Select the phone number and tap on the symbols button.
- Add a comma (,) after the main number, then type the extension.
- Tap Done to save the changes.
Next time you call this contact, the extension will dial automatically. This makes reaching people at work faster and more convenient.
How to Dial an Extension on Android Easily
Android users can also dial extensions without waiting. The process is slightly different from iPhone but just as easy.
- Open the Phone app and tap on Dialpad.
- Enter the main phone number you want to call.
- Tap and hold the (,) button or Pause option.
- Type the extension number after the comma.
- Press the Call button to dial.
Some Android phones have a Wait option instead of a pause. If you use it, your phone will wait for you to confirm before dialing the extension.
How to Save an Extension Number as a Contact on Android
Saving an extension in your contacts makes calling faster. You don’t have to enter the extension every time you dial.
- Open the Contacts app and select Create New Contact.
- Enter the main phone number in the number field.
- Tap on the Symbols option and select Pause (,) or Wait (;).
- Add the extension number after the pause.
- Tap Save to store the contact.
Next time you call this contact, the extension will be dialed automatically, saving you time and effort.
Using Pause and Wait: The Best Way to Dial an Extension
To make dialing extensions easier, you can use the Pause (,) and Wait (;) functions. These help control when the extension is dialed.
- Pause (,): Your phone will wait a moment before dialing the extension.
- Wait (;): Your phone will stop and ask you to tap before dialing the extension.
Both options can help if extensions take longer to activate. Use the one that works best for your needs.
Troubleshooting: Why Is My Extension Not Working?
Sometimes, dialing an extension doesn’t work. Here are some common reasons and solutions:
- Wrong number: Double-check if you entered the correct extension.
- Not enough pause: Add more commas (,) for a longer wait.
- Call settings issue: Restart your phone or check if your phone app is updated.
- Service restrictions: Some networks block extensions. Try calling manually.
If you still have problems, contact your phone provider for help.

Conclusion
Knowing how to dial an extension can save you time and frustration. Instead of listening to long automated messages, you can connect to the right person quickly. Whether you are using an iPhone or Android, following these steps will make your calling experience easier.
Saving extension numbers in contacts is a great way to make things even faster. Once saved, you never have to enter them again. Try these tips today and enjoy hassle-free calling!
FAQs
Q: What is an extension number?
A: An extension is a short number linked to a main phone number. It helps direct calls within a company or office.
Q: How do I add a pause when dialing an extension?
A: Press and hold the asterisk (*) key on iPhone or use the Pause (,) option on Android.
Q: Can I save an extension number in my contacts?
A: Yes, you can add a pause (,) before the extension and save it in your phone’s contact list.