Quick dial on Xiaomi: how to set up and use the function

The fast dial feature on Xiaomi smartphones (including the Redmi and POCO lines) allows you to instantly call your favorite contacts or run frequently used apps directly from a locked screen. This saves time and makes it easier to interact with the device, especially when you urgently need to make a call or open a messenger. However, many users do not know how to activate and configure this option – or face the fact that it suddenly disappears after the MIUI update.

In this article, we’ll look at all the ways to enable quick dialing on Xiaomi, including hidden settings for different firmware versions (from MIUI 12 to MIUI 15), how to add contacts to your favorites for quick access, why the feature may not work on some models (for example, Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5), and what to do if the fast dial icons disappeared after resetting, and we’ll also look at alternative methods – from desktop widgets to third-party applications that will replace the standard functionality.

What is a fast set on Xiaomi and why you need it?

Quick Access or Speed Dial is a MIUI function that allows you to place shortcuts on a locked screen or notification bar for instant access to:

• 📞 Contacts – call in one tap without unlocking the phone.
• 💬 Applications – quick launch of messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) or cameras.
• 🔄 Action shortcuts – for example, turning on a flashlight or mobile internet.

The main advantage is that it saves up to 70% on frequent calls (according to Xiaomi’s research among MIUI 14 users). For example, if you call 10 contacts daily, fast dialing will reduce the process from 30 seconds (unlock + contact search) to 2-3 seconds.

However, there are limitations:

• ⚠️ On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra) the fast dial is disabled by default due to security policy.
• ⚠️ After updating to MIUI 15 the location of settings may change (see section on current paths below).
• ⚠️ The feature is not available if a third-party launcher is used (for example, Nova Launcher).

Method 1: Configure using standard MIUI parameters

This is the most reliable method that works on most Xiaomi devices (including the Redmi Note 11, POCO F4, Xiaomi 12T and later). The instructions are relevant for MIUI 14/15, but will also work for older versions with minor changes to the menu.

Steps to include:

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the Screen Lock (or Lock Screen on some models).
3. Select Application Shortcuts or Quick Access (name depends on the version of MIUI).
4. Activate the switch Show shortcuts on the locked screen.
5. Click Set up shortcuts and add the desired contacts or applications (maximum 5 pieces).

If the App Shortcuts item is not in the Screen Lock menu, try an alternative path:

Settings → Additional settings → Special features → Quick access

Update MIUI to the latest version | Check that contacts are saved in the phone book | Disable third-party launchers (if you use) | Make sure the screen is not locked with the pattern lock (may interfere)

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Important: If you use a pattern lock or password, some shortcuts may not be displayed due to security limitations, in which case we recommend adding contacts to your Favorites via the Phone app – they will be available even without unlocking.

Method 2: Quick dialing through widgets on the desktop

If the standard feature doesn’t work or you’re not happy with its 5 shortcuts limit, you can use widgets, which is suitable for all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi 10A and POCO M5, where the fast dial is disabled by default.

How to add a widget for quick access:

1. Press and hold the empty space on the desktop.
2. In the menu that appears, select Widgets.
3. Scroll through the list to Contacts or Phone.
4. Drag the Quick Dial (or Favorite Contacts) widget to the screen.
5. Customize the widget size (usually available 2×2 or 4×1) options.
6. Add the necessary contacts by clicking on the plus inside the widget.

Advantages of the method:

• 🔧 You can add an unlimited number of contacts (as opposed to 5 shortcuts in the standard function).
• 🎨 Widgets support customization: color change, transparency, size.
• 🔄 It works even if you have disabled fast access in the settings MIUI.

💡

If the Quick Dial widget is not listed, update the Contacts app via Google Play. Some firmwares call it Phone or People.

Disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Widgets only work on an unlocked screen.
• ⚠️ On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Lite) widgets can disappear after a reboot – in this case, resetting the launcher settings (Settings) will help. → Annexes → Launcher → Warehouse → Clear the data).

Method 3: Use of gestures and hot keys

If you don't have the standard shortcuts, you can set up gestures or hotkeys to get to your contacts quickly, which requires more customization, but gives you more flexibility.

Option 1: Gestures on a locked screen

Some Xiaomi models (such as the Redmi K50 or POCO X4 Pro) support double-touch to run applications.

1. Go to Settings → Lock screen → Double touch.
2. Select the action: Launch the application or Call the contact.
3. Specify the contact or application you want (such as WhatsApp).

Option 2: Hot keys through the power button

On devices with MIUI 13+, you can assign a long press of the power button for quick access:

Settings → Buttons and gestures → Power button → Long press

In the action list, select a Call and specify a contact. Now holding the power button will immediately call the selected number.

Why Quick Dialing Doesn't Work: Common Problems and Solutions

If you have enabled the feature but the shortcuts do not appear on the lock screen, check the following points:

Pay special attention to the security settings:

• 🔒 If Incognito Mode or Private Mode is enabled, the labels may be hidden.
• 🔐 On some models (e.g. Xiaomi Mix Fold 2), fast dialing is blocked when using biometric authorization (face/fingerprint scanner).

💡

If after all the manipulations, the fast dial never worked, try resetting the lock screen settings: Settings → System → Resetting → Resetting lock settings. This will not delete your data, but will return the standard display settings.

Alternative methods: third-party applications for quick dialing

If the built-in MIUI features don't suit you, you can use third-party utilities, which offer advanced features, such as:

• 📱 Add an unlimited number of contacts.
• 🎨 Customization of appearance (colors, icons, animations).
• 🔒 Working on a locked screen (even with a password).

Top.-3 Applications for quick dialing on Xiaomi:

1. Speed Dial (from Smart Launcher Team) – supports gestures and widgets.
2. Quick Contacts is a minimalist design with integration into the notification panel.
3. Floating Apps – creates floating windows for quick access.

How to install and configure (for example, Speed Dial):

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Open it and give access to Contacts and Phone.
3. Add the necessary contacts to the quick access list.
4. Set up the display (widget or floating button).
5. Activate the option to Show on the locked screen in the application settings.

💡

Before installing third-party apps, check reviews – some may contain ads or ask for unnecessary permissions (such as accessing SMS).

Features of setting up on popular Xiaomi models

The function of fast dialing may vary depending on the model and version of MIUI. Let's consider the nuances for the most common devices:

For models with AMOLED-screens (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Ultra: Quick dial may conflict with Always On Display (AOD). To solve the problem:

1. Open the Settings. → Screen. → Always On Display.
2. Turn off the option to hide confidential information.
3. Reset the device.

FAQ: Frequent questions about fast dialing on Xiaomi