Xiaomi’s modern smartphones offer users the most personalization options, far beyond simply replacing desktop wallpaper. One of the most sought-after features is the ability to change the call screen by turning a standard gray window into a vibrant animation or minimalist interface.
Depending on the version of the MIUI operating system or the new HyperOS, and the type of call installed (standard or Google), the process may be slightly different. However, the basic principles remain the same: control is through the built-in Themes app or the system settings of the display. In this article, we will discuss all the available methods so that you can easily customize your gadget.
Before we get into action, it's worth noting that deep customization requires careful attention. Incorrect installation of third-party components can lead to unstable system operation, although the risk is minimal when using official resources. Let's look at the main ways to transform the visual style of incoming calls.
Using the Topics app to change style
The easiest and most effective way to change the call screen on Xiaomi is to use the regular Themes app, which is where thousands of ready-made solutions are created by both the company’s official designers and independent community authors.
To get started, you need to open the Themes app on your device. At the bottom of the screen or at the top menu (depending on the interface version), find the Calls section or search the search bar by typing in a query like Call Screen or Call Widget, and you'll see a variety of options here, from simple static images to complex animated scenes.
⚠️ Note: Some themes may be paid or require a premium Mi Account. Be careful when choosing and check the terms of content.
Once you select your favorite option, click Download and then Apply. The system automatically prompts you to choose which components of the theme to activate. Make sure that the listing indicates Call Screen or Calls, otherwise the visual style will not change.
It's important to understand that using a new theme affects not only the call, but also other interface elements, unless you choose a selective setup. Selective use allows you to leave the icons and wallpaper the same, changing only the call style, and this is especially true for those who like to assemble their interface from different sources.
💡
Before installing a new theme, take a screenshot of the current call settings to quickly return to the original state if necessary.
Configure the lock and call screen in MIUI
Smartphone owners with a MIUI shell often confuse the lock screen and the incoming call screen. While they may look similar in some themes, technically they are different system components, each of which is customized in different menu sections.
To change the style of the lock screen you see when you wake up, go to Settings and find the Lock Screen section, where you can configure the display of watches, widgets and, in some cases, choose the unlock style, but these settings only indirectly suit the type of incoming call.
To fine-tune the call behavior, such as turning on a flash or vibration when calling, the Settings menu is used. → Sound and vibration → Vibration when you call. Here you can activate the flash on call function, which will make the LED or the screen blink, attracting attention.
It is worth noting that in the new versions of HyperOS, Xiaomi has introduced more flexible depth and blur effects settings. If you want the background of the call to match the current wallpaper, check whether the option is enabled Dynamic Wallpaper or a similar feature in the personalization settings.
☑️ Checking the call settings
Google Calls on Xiaomi Features
Many modern Xiaomi models, especially global versions, come pre-installed with the Google Phone app instead of the standard Chinese MIUI Dialer.This makes its own adjustments to the call screen change process, as standard MIUI themes may not apply to the Google interface.
In the Google Phone app, customization options are limited to the Android system itself, but there are workarounds: You can use special live wallpapers that activate when you call, or install third-party caller apps from the Play Market that completely replace the incoming call interface.
If you want to return the ability to apply MIUI themes to a Google call, you may need to install a special plugin or use the rights of a superuser (Root), which is not recommended for ordinary users for security reasons.
⚠️ Warning: Installing third-party calls from unknown sources can lead to leaks of personal data and phone numbers.Use only proven high-ranking apps.
Also, in the settings of the Google Phone app itself (three dots in the corner → Settings), you can change the theme to dark or light, and adjust the color scheme according to Material You materials, if your version of Android supports it, this allows you to harmoniously fit the call into the overall color style of the system.
How to bring back MIUI Dialer on the global version?
Comparison of methods of customization of the interface
To make it easier for you to choose the right way to change the call screen, we have prepared a comparative table of basic methods, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and smartphone model.
| Method | Difficulty | Security | Variability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annex Topic (Official) | Low. | Tall. | Huge. |
| System settings (Basic) | Low. | Tall. | Minimum |
| Third-party applications (Play Market) | Medium | Medium | Tall. |
| Installation of modified calls | Tall. | Low. | Maximum |
As you can see from the table, for most users, the best solution is to use an official theme store.This ensures compatibility with your version of MIUI and the absence of critical errors in the phone. Third-party solutions should be considered only if the standard functionality you are categorically dissatisfied with.
Remember that installing a large number of heavy animated themes can have a negative impact on battery autonomy. Call screen animation consumes processor and screen resources, especially if used AMOLED-high-brightness.
💡
The official Theme app is the safest and most stable way to change the call screen without risk to the system.
Resolving problems with the display of the call
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where after installing a new theme, the call screen does not change, turns black or displays incorrectly, this may be due to a conflict of versions of the Themes application or errors in the system cache.
The first step to solve the problem is to clean the Topic app data. Go to Settings → Apps → All Apps, find Topics, and select Clean → Clear Everything.
If that didn’t work, check for updates for system components. Often Xiaomi releases patches that fix graphics bugs. Go to Settings → About phone and click on the MIUI version to check for updates.
⚠️ Note: When you clean the Topics app data, your downloaded but unused themes may be deleted. Make sure that the themes that are important to you are saved or re-downloaded.
In rare cases, the problem may be in a specific theme file. Try using a different, simpler theme to see if the error persists. If the other theme is working fine, the first file is corrupted or incompatible with your firmware version.