How to change the dialing keyboard on Xiaomi smartphones: 5 proven ways

Why to change the standard keyboard set on Xiaomi and what it gives

Xiaomi’s dialing keyboard is not just a call tool, it’s an interface that affects speed, convenience, and even security. The standard MIUI solution doesn’t always suit users: someone wants big buttons for older relatives, someone lacks quick access to contacts, and some are just tired of advertising in system applications. In this article, we’ll look at all the ways to replace them, from built-in settings to installing alternative applications.

It's important to understand that the keyboard is different from the keyboard for text (like in Gboard or SwiftKey), and it's about the screen that appears when you open the Phone app and start dialing. And if you think there are few options, you're wrong. Xiaomi can install both custom solutions and modify the standard application through hidden settings.

But before you start making changes, check the MIUI version on your device. Some methods only work on MIUI firmware 12 and later, and older versions (such as MIUI 11) may need a workaround. You can find out the version in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version.

Method 1: Replacement through MIUI system settings (without root)

The easiest and safest method is to use the built-in MIUI capabilities. It does not require superuser rights and is suitable for most models, including the Redmi Note 10/11/12, Poco X3/X4 and the flagship Xiaomi 12/13.

1. Open the phone application (pipe icon).
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Settings.
3. Scroll down to the Keyboard section of the set (some firmware may call Setup).
4. Slip on the item Keyboard style or Themes - here you can choose one of the pre-installed options (for example, classic, modern or miniature).

If you don't have one on your menu, the manufacturer has blocked this option for your model, in which case move on to the next method, and note that some keyboard themes may hide the pause button (*), which is inconvenient when typing additional commands (for example, for banking services).

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If the keyboard is too small after the change of style, go back to the settings and turn on the screen scaling option (usually in Special Options) to increase all interface elements, including dial buttons.

Method 2: Install a third-party keyboard via Google Dialer

If you don't like the built-in MIUI, you can replace the standard Phone app with an alternative one, and one of the best options is Google Dialer, which offers:

• 🔍 Intelligent contact search by name or number.
• 📞 Recording conversations (on supported devices).
• 🛡️ Protection against spam with a fraudulent number database.
• 🎨 Customizable keyboard interface (button size, color scheme).

To install Google Dialer:

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Once installed, open it and allow all permissions (access to contacts, calls, microphone).
3. In the window that appears, select Use by default for calls.
4. Go to the application settings (three points → Settings) and set up the keyboard in the Dial section.

Important: On some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) 9A POCO M3) Google Dialer may not be the default app due to restrictions MIUI. In this case, you will have to manually select it at each call or use it. ADB-force-shift.

Backup contacts | Check free space (minimum 100 MB) | Disable battery optimization for the application | Allow auto-run in MIUI-->

Method 3: Using Truecaller for Extended Functions

Truecaller is not just a number detector, but it's also a complete replacement for the standard keyboard set.

• 📱 Identification of callers even without contacts in the phone book.
• 🚫 Blocking Spam with Updated Fraudster Base.
• 🔄 Labeled call history (e.g., "bank", "delivery").
• 🌍 Support for multiple languages on the keyboard.

However, Truecaller has its drawbacks:

• 📊 Data collection: the application requests access to contacts and call history (you can turn off in the settings).
• 💰 Advertising in the free version (removed by subscription).
• 🔋 Increased battery consumption due to background work.

To set up the keyboard in Truecaller:

1. Install the app from Google Play.
2. When you first start, register (you can use Google or phone number).
3. Go to Settings → Dial and select the style of the keyboard.
4. Enable the option of Replace the standard set (permission to overlay windows is required).

⚠️ Note: If call notifications stop coming after the Truecaller installation, check the battery optimization settings in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Truecaller → Optimize the battery and turn it off.

Method 4: Manual change through ADB (for power users)

If system methods do not work and third-party applications do not suit, you can force the keyboard to change the set via ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which is suitable for advanced users and requires connecting the smartphone to the computer.

You'll need:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB-driver.
• 📱 Included debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times to tap according to the version → return to → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).

Instructions:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm the debugging permission.
2. Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with the platform-tools.
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices must appear serial number of your device.
4. Install Google Dialer as the default app: adb shell pm grant com.google.android.dialer android.permission.BIND_TELECOM_CONNECTION_SERVICE adb shell cmd phone set-default-dialer com.google.android.dialer

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB If the calls are missing after completing the commands, return the standard application with the command: adb shell cmd phone set-default-dialer com.android.server.telecom

Method 5: Magisk Castom Firmware and Modules (for enthusiasts)

If you're willing to take drastic measures, you can change the keyboard of the set through custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) or Magisk modules. This method gives maximum freedom, but requires:

• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (bootloader).
• 📱 Root access (via Magisk).
• 🛠️ Backup of data (risk of loss of information).

Popular modules for Magisk:

Installation of modules:

1. Download the module file (.zip) from the XDA Developers forum.
2. Open Magisk Manager and go to the Modules section.
3. Click Install from Storage and select the downloaded file.
4. Reset the device.

⚠️ Note: Installing unofficial modules may disrupt banking applications (due to SafetyNet trigger).Pre-installing the module for compatibility with your Xiaomi model and version MIUI.

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Magisk's customization tools and modules offer maximum customization freedom, but are not warranty-free and can cause unstable operation of the device. Use them only if other methods have not worked.

Problem Solving: What to Do When Your Keyboard Doesn't Change

Sometimes, even after all the manipulations, the keyboard of the set remains standard. Here are the typical reasons and solutions:

If none of these methods worked, try:

• 🔄 Reset the settings of the Phone application (Settings) → Annexes → Phone. → Warehouse → Drop it).
• 📥 Update MIUI Up to the latest version (sometimes bugs are fixed in new builds).
• 📞 Contact Xiaomi via official chat (if hardware problem).

FAQ: Frequent questions about changing the keyboard set to Xiaomi