The flash of the camera flashing when you call in on Xiaomi Redmi is a useful feature for alerting in noisy places or in silent mode. But not all users like this effect: it drains the battery, distracts others and can fire at the wrong time (for example, at night). Fortunately, the manufacturer has provided several ways to turn it off, both through standard MIUI settings and using hidden settings.
In this article, we will discuss all the current methods for the Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 10/11, Redmi A2 and other MIUI 12-14-based lines. We will pay special attention to the nuances: why the setting may disappear after updates, how to return it on firmware without Russian, and what to do if the flash continues to work despite all manipulations.
Why does Xiaomi Redmi flash when you call?
Flash alerts, which was introduced in MIUI in 2016 as an alternative to vibration and melody, uses the cameraโs LED to visually alert you about:
- ๐ Incoming calls (including VoIP calls via WhatsApp, Telegram)
- ๐ฉ SMS and notifications from messengers (if included in the settings)
- โฐ Alarm clocks and timers
By default, the feature is activated on most Redmi models, but its behavior depends on the firmware version:
| MIUI version | Outbreak behaviour | Can I turn it off? |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12โ12.5 | Blinks 2 times when calling, 1 time when SMS | Yeah, through the settings. |
| MIUI 13โ14 (Global) | Continuous flashing before response/death | Yeah, but the menu has changed. |
| MIUI for India (IN) | It only works in silent mode. | Yes, with limitations. |
| The Pixel Experience (Pixel Experience, etc.) | Depends on the build. | Not often. |
On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro), the flash is triggered even when the screen is off, which can drain the battery by 5-7% overnight with active notifications. If you notice this, check the Battery settings โ Charge consumption for abnormal consumption by the camera module.
Method 1: Disconnect via standard MIUI settings
The easiest method is to use the built-in system settings. The interface may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI, but the general logic is maintained:
- Open the Settings app (cog icon).
- Go to the Special Opportunities section (on some firmwares โ Additional โ Special. features).
- Select the Light indicator or Flash notifications.
- Turn off the slider next to Incoming Calls (and Messages if needed).
On MIUI 14, the path may be different:
Settings โ Notifications and Status bar โ Flash notificationAre special options open?
Is the section "Light indicator" found?
Is the incoming call slider in the off position?
Rebooted smartphone to apply changes?-->
Important! Some firmware (e.g. Redmi 9A with MIUI 12.0.8) has the option hidden. If you don't find it, try Method 2 or 3.
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If the section "Special features" is missing, try to enter the search for settings request "flash" - the system will tell the current path.
Method 2: Use of the Engineering Menu (for advanced)
If the standard method does not work, you can refer to the Engineering Mode, which requires caution, as incorrect changes can lead to failures.
Instructions:
- Open the Phone app and type in the combination: ##36446337## (some models run ##4636##).
- In the menu that opens, select Hardware Testing โ Lights.
- Find Torch Light (flash) and Flash Light (backlight).
- Turn off the Flash on Call option (if any) or reset the values to default.
On Redmi models with Snapdragon processor (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro+), the engineering menu can block changes โ in this case, only method 3 will help.
What to do if the engineering menu is not opened?
Method 3: Disconnect via ADB (for power users)
If the first two methods didnโt work, the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) option remains, a versatile tool for deep customization of MIUI, but it requires a PC connection.
Step-by-step:
- Download and install ADB Tools on your computer.
- On your phone, activate Developer Mode (7 times click on the MIUI version in your smartphone settings).
- Enable USB debugging in the developer menu.
- Connect Redmi to your PC and execute: Adb shell settings put global flash_notification_enabled 0
- Reset the device.
To return the flash back, use the same command by substituting 0 for 1.
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ADB-Teams are working on all versions MIUI, But they require developer rights. Once the firmware updates, the settings can reset!
Why does the flash keep blinking after the shutdown?
If you have completed all the steps, but the flash on the call is still working, check the following points:
- ๐ System cache: Sometimes settings are reset due to a damaged cache. Try clearing it through Settings โ Memory. โ Cleanup.
- ๐ฑ Third-party applications: Some programs (such as Flash Alerts 2 or Light Manager) may duplicate the function. โ Annexes.
- ๐ง Regional restrictions: On firmware for India (MIUI IN) flash may ignore settings due to local regulations.
- ๐ Update MIUI: After the firmware update, the parameters are often reset.
If the problem persists, try resetting to factory settings (don't forget to back up!). On Redmi Note 12 and later, you can do this without losing data via Settings โ About Phone โ Reset.
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On some models (e.g. Redmi K50), the flash is controlled separately for SIM1 and SIM2. Check the settings for each card!
How to turn off the flash only for specific contacts?
The flash selective shutdown feature appeared in MIUI 13 and is not available on all devices. If your Redmi supports it, do the following:
- Open the Contacts app and select the contact you want.
- Click Edit (pencil icon).
- Scroll down to the Notification block.
- Turn off the Flash slider when you call.
If you do not have an option, use the following workaround:
- ๐ต Assign a unique tune (even a silent one) to the contact, which sometimes cancels the flash.
- ๐คซ Add Contact to Exceptions through Settings โ Notifications โ Exceptions for applications.
Alternatives to flash: what to use instead?
If you have disabled the flash but want to save visual notifications, consider these options:
| The alternative | How to set up | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screenlighting | Settings โ Screen โ Illumination of notifications | Does not discharge the battery, works in the dark | Less noticeable during the day |
| Vibrating patterned | Settings โ Sounds โ Vibration when calling | Works in your pocket, does not interfere with others | It may not work in silent mode. |
| LED indicator | Requires hardware support (not available on all Redmis) | More economical than outbreaks | Poor visibility in bright lighting |
On the Redmi Note 11S and later, there is a feature called "Always-on Display" (AOD), which shows notifications on the screen off. It consumes minimal charge and can be a good replacement for the flash.