How to permanently turn off the flashlight when calling Xiaomi Redmi 5A: proven methods

Owners of Xiaomi Redmi 5A often face an uncomfortable feature: when an incoming call automatically turns on the flashlight. This option, designed to attract the user’s attention, can drain the battery, distract in the dark or just annoy. Unfortunately, in the standard MIUI settings for this model, there is no direct switch to disable this feature. However, there are workarounds – both through hidden menus and using technical tools.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods, including root-free and ADB-based methods. You will learn how to turn off the flashlight permanently or customize it to your needs. Importantly, some methods require caution because they change system parameters. We will also look at the possible consequences and alternative solutions for those who do not want to go into technical details.

Why the flashlight is turned on when you call and whether it can be turned off by standard means

The automatic flashlight activation feature was introduced in MIUI as part of the notification system, which is designed to help users quickly find their phone in the dark or noisy environment, but in practice, this often has the opposite effect:

  • 🔋 Increased battery consumption – a flashlight consumes a significant amount of energy, especially if calls are frequent.
  • 😴 Night wakes – bright lights can wake you or others if your phone is lying next to your bed.
  • 📱 LED wear – frequent inclusions reduce the flashlight life.

The newer versions of MIUI (starting with 10) have a separate switch for this feature in call settings. However, Redmi 5A ran on MIUI 9 (base version) or MIUI 10 (after updates), where there is no such switch in principle.

⚠️ Warning: Before using any methods that change system settings, make sure that the phone has enough battery power (at least 50%). MIUI.

Method 1: Disconnect via MIUI Hidden Settings (without root)

The safest method is to use the MIUI Hidden Settings app, which provides access to hidden system settings, which requires no root rights and is suitable for most users.

Steps to turn off the flashlight:

  1. Download and install MIUI Hidden Settings from Google Play.
  2. Open the app and provide all the necessary permissions (access to notifications and settings).
  3. Go to System UI Tuner (may be called System Settings).
  4. Find Incoming Call Flashlight (or Flashlight when an incoming call is made) and turn off the switch.
  5. Restart your phone to apply the changes.

☑️ Preparation for switching off the flashlight

Done: 0 / 5

If Incoming Call Flashlight is missing, try updating the app or using an alternative method. In some firmware, this option may be hidden deeper, such as in Additional Settings → Call Settings.

⚠️ Attention: After update MIUI settings MIUI Hidden Settings may reset.Repeat the procedure after each major system update.

Method 2: Use of the ADB-Teams (for experienced users)

If the previous method didn’t work, you can turn off the flashlight via Android Debug Bridge (ADB), which requires connecting the phone to a computer and basic command line knowledge.

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn on Developer Mode on your phone: Go to Settings → About Phone. 7 times click on MIUI Version until the notification You became a developer!.

USB debugging

  • Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
  • Turn on the debugging switch over USB.
  • Connect your phone to your computer through USB-cable and select File Transfer Mode (MTP).
  • Download and install Platform Tools (includes ADB).
  • Open the command prompt (cmd in Windows or Terminal in macOS/Linux) and type:

⚠️ Warning: Incorrect editing of system files can lead to bootloop (cyclic reboot).Before making changes, back up the file or the entire partition. /system through TWRP.

What to do if your phone is stuck in a bootloop?
If the phone doesn’t boot after editing system files, try: 1. log in to TWRP and restore backup. 2. Fastboot Mode. 3. Use the command fastboot erase system (will lead to data loss!).

Method 4: Disconnection through third-party applications

If you don't want to work with ADB or get root rights, you can use third-party applications that block access to the flashlight.

  • 📱 Flashlight Manager – allows you to control the operation of the flashlight, including blocking when calling.
  • 🛠️ MacroDroid – Creates a rule that turns off the flashlight when an incoming call is detected.
  • 🔧 Tasker – advanced automation tool that requires profile settings.