Why does my Samsung Android phone list my phone number as 'Unknown' in its settings?

Last updated: 17 January, 2014

This error commonly occurs when you transfer the number you were using on your old phone over to your current phone.

Your Samsung phone reads the phone number originally assigned to the SIM card and if you are no longer using that number (such as when you've ported over your old number to use with the new SIM card) your phone will no longer know what number your are using. Your phone in this case will list your current number as 'unknown' rather than incorrectly present the number originally assigned to the SIM card.

This information cannot currently be amended due to how the Android operating system registers a number to the handset upon first use. The issue may be resolved in a future Android software update, but until then rest assured that it has no effect on your device's functionality.

As a workaround you could create a profile in your contacts list that lists your phone's number (check with your network operator if you don't know your number). To do so follow these steps:

1. From the Home screen touch  Apps.

2. Touch Contacts (you may need to swipe left or right to locate it first).

3. Touch the ME entry (you may need to scroll down to locate it first). If this entry is blank you'll need to touch and hold on it instead and then select Edit.

4. Touch the pencil icon in the top-right corner of the screen.

5. Touch the drop-down box below Phone and select 'Mobile'.

6. Enter your phone's number in the empty field next to it.

7. Touch Save in the top-right corner of the screen.

Now you'll have a record of your phone's number within easy reach despite it not being listed in the settings.