Modern Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones come with a variety of security features designed to protect the wearer in critical situations, one of which is emergency call mode, which is activated by quickly pressing the power button five times, and it really saves lives by automatically dialing the number of rescue services or trusted contacts and sending location coordinates.
But despite the developers' good intentions, the feature often becomes a source of irritation: Random switching on in your pocket, activation while playing or watching videos are frequent complaints from users, at which point the device begins to make loud sounds, vibrate and even take photos, which can be inappropriate or intimidating.
Fortunately, the system MIUI And the new HyperOS allows you to manage this configuration flexibly, so you can completely deactivate the automatic call, leaving only the sending of messages, or disable the entire function. SOS-Make sure your phone behaves predictably.
What is the SOS function on Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s SOS shell feature is a comprehensive security tool that aims to connect the smartphone owner to rescue services or loved ones as quickly as possible without having to unlock the screen or search for contacts in the phone book, and is based on physical interaction with the power button.
By default, the system is set to react with a five-fold press of the power key. Once activated, a countdown is triggered, usually lasting 5 seconds, so that the user can cancel the action if the tap was accidental. If no cancellation occurs, the phone executes a programmed script.
It is important to understand that an emergency call can work in two modes: just dialing or sending. SMS-In some regions, such as the European Union, eCall technology is also supported, which transmits traffic data directly to emergency services if the smartphone is connected to the car.
- 📍 Automatic dialing: The phone calls the number 112 or other specified contact.
- 📩 Sending messages: sends messages SMS with text and a link to a map to several contacts.
- 📸 Quiet call: in some configurations, the call may be, and the camera takes photos surroundings.
⚠️ Attention: Complete shutdown of the function SOS If you're doing this to prevent accidental calls, consider extending the delay time before calling instead of completely deactivating.
Setting up the SOS button through the standard menu
The main way to manage the function is through system security settings. The path to this menu may vary slightly depending on the version of the operating system (MIUI 12, 13, 14 or HyperOS), but the logic remains the same. You do not need superuser rights or third-party software.
To start, open the Settings app (cog icon). In the list, look for the Passwords and Security section. This is where all the important security features of the device, including biometrics and application access, are concentrated. Next, select SOS or Emergency Call.
In the menu that opens, you'll see a switch that activates or deactivates the function. If it's on, you'll have additional options available below. You can choose what should happen when you activate: only calls, only messages, or both. You'll also have a list of emergency contacts set up here.
☑️ Checking settings SOS
If your goal is to remove the sound and vibration, but leave the coordinates, select Messages Only, in which case, when pressed five times, the phone will not make loud noises, but will quietly send data, which can be critical in dangerous situations.
Disabling the screen lock in emergency mode
A separate problem for many Xiaomi owners is the ability to make a call without unlocking the phone. The lock screen often features an "Emergency Call" button that lets you dial 112 or 911 even without entering a password. This is the Android security standard, but sometimes it gets in the way.
You can't completely remove this button from the lock screen with standard means, as it's a requirement of many countries, but you can limit the functionality. Go to Settings → Notifications and Status bar → Lock screen. You can turn off some widgets, but the call button will remain.
A more effective method is to set up “Package Dial Mode” or “Casual Presses.” In Settings → Lock screen, make sure that the “Prevention of Accidental Turning on” option is enabled, which will add delay or require more accurate tapping so that the phone recognizes the command.
You should also pay attention to the function “Respond with vibration” or “Put to the ear for response.” If activated, the phone can answer an incoming emergency call or start dialing when you carelessly move, disabling these options in the “Additional settings” section will reduce the risk of false positives.
| Setup parameter | Location on the menu | Recommended value | Impact on SOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency call (5 times) | Passwords and security → SOS | Off | Complete shutdown of function |
| Emergency contacts | Passwords and security → SOS | List of lists | Who's going? SMS |
| Prevention included. in the pocket | Lock screen | On | Protection against accident |
| Answer by submitting | Supplemental settings → Opportunities | Off | Eliminates auto-response |
Use of engineering menus and codes
For advanced users, it is possible to customize some settings through the engineering menu. However, unlike older versions of Android, modern shells MIUI and HyperOS limit access to hidden functions of the caller.
Type ##4636## in the Phone app. If the menu opens, go to Phone Information, where you can see network status and do the testing, but there's usually no direct SOS disable button, which is more suitable for diagnosing if the emergency call doesn't work when you need it.
There is a myth that *#9900# or similar combinations can disable system security services. On Xiaomi smartphones, these codes often don’t work or lead to an empty menu. The only guaranteed way to disable is through the security settings graphical interface described above.
If standard methods don't work, it may be a third-party application that intercepts button events. Check the list of installed applications with access rights to "Accessibility." Often "memory cleaners" or "accelerators" can conflict with system functions.
Solving problems with false positives
Even when properly set up, users sometimes find the phone "living its life" a common cause is a protective case. Some silicone or magnetic cases can push the power button or lock, simulating quick presses.
Try removing the case and testing the button. If the problem is gone, replace the accessory. It's also worth checking the status of the physical button itself. If it sticks or has a backlash, the phone can record multiple taps as one long or a series of short ones.
Another source of problems is software failure. After updating the firmware, the settings may reset or conflict, in which case it will help to restart the device. If this does not help, reset the network settings or, in extreme cases, completely reset to factory settings (be sure to make a backup).
- 🧹 Cache Clearing: Go to Settings → Annexes → All applications → Security and clear the cache.
- 🔄 Update: Make sure the latest version is installed MIUI/HyperOS, Patches often fix sensor bugs.
- 🔌 Charging: Sometimes static electricity when charged with cheap cables causes "phantom" presses.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone starts ringing on its own without pressing the buttons, this could be a sign of hardware malfunction of the power button plume or moisture getting inside the housing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are the answers to the most popular user questions that will help you understand the nuances of the Xiaomi security system.