Modern Xiaomi Redmi and Poco smartphones, which run on the Android operating system with a shell MIUI or HyperOS, offer users a wide range of tools for communication. However, a common problem is when, after installing a new application for calls or resetting settings, the system no longer knows which “caller” to launch when you click on a number in contacts, which is annoying, since the device can open an old application or even give a choice error.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail the algorithm of actions that will help you to force the desired application Phone as the main means of making calls. We will consider not only standard ways through settings, but also specific cases specific to the Xiaomi ecosystem, where the security system sometimes blocks third-party decisions. Understanding these nuances will allow you to avoid typical errors and customize the gadget as comfortably as possible.
You will also learn how to manage permissions properly and why some apps don’t appear on the default destination list.
Why Change the Standard Call App
Many users have been using a standard caller for years without even thinking about the alternatives. However, the regular MIUI Dialer or Google Phone app preinstalled on your Redmi may not meet all the requirements, for example, you may lack the automatic call recording feature, which is limited by law in some regions, or you want a more advanced number detector with a real-time spam database.
Third-party apps often offer an improved interface, instant messenger integration, or the ability to fine-tune voice control. When you install such a program, the Android system defaults to it automatically while waiting for a user to confirm. This is done for security reasons, so that malware cannot take over control of important functions of the device without the owner's knowledge.
⚠️ Warning: When installing third-party applications for calls from unreliable sources, you risk passing your contact details and call history to third parties.Always check developer ratings and requested permissions before installing.
In addition, a change of the standard application may be required if the regular program began to work incorrectly: freezes, does not open a call log or distorts the sound. In such cases, installing a proven analog and assigning it to the default application becomes the only way to restore normal functionality of the smartphone without full flashing.
Preparing the device for changing settings
Before you go to the direct setup, you need to make sure that your Xiaomi Redmi device is ready for changes. Make sure that the application you choose is already installed and has all the necessary permissions. Without this, the system may not display it in the list of available options, and you will spend time looking for a non-existent option.
Check the operating system version. On newer versions of HyperOS or MIUI 14/15, the paths to settings may be slightly different from older versions of Android. It is also recommended to close all background processes so that the settings interface opens instantly and there are no conflicts when switching services.
☑️ Checklist before setting up
It is important to understand the difference between installing an app and activating it. Just downloading a program from Google Play or GetApps is not enough. Android requires a user to explicitly tell you that it is the software that should handle incoming and outgoing calls. Ignoring this step will lead to the phone asking you how to open the action every time you try to call from contacts, or using an old application.
The main method through system settings
The most reliable and versatile method of installing the application by default on Xiaomi is to use the system settings menu. This path works 99% of the time, regardless of the version of the shell. To begin, open the main settings menu of your smartphone by finding the icon with the gear.
In the list that opens, scroll down to the Applications section. Inside this section, you need to find the App Settings option (three dots in the corner or a separate button) or immediately go to the default App subsection. In some versions of MIUI, this item may be hidden in the Application Management menu.
Find the phone or Dialer category in the list. Click on it and the system will offer a list of all installed applications that can make calls. Choose from the list the one you need (for example, Google Phone or Yandex). Once you select, the system can request confirmation of the action - agree with it.
What to do if there is no “Default Apps” item?
After doing this, try a trial call from the phone book, and if the app you selected opens, the setup is successful, and if the system again offers a choice or opens the old program, you may need to take an additional step to clear the cache of the previous application, which we will talk about in the next sections.
Configure via the “Applications” menu and permissions
Sometimes a direct path through system settings fails because of the cached data of the old application, in which case you need to intervene in the operation of a particular software through the application management menu. Go to Settings → Applications → All applications.
Find the app you want to make the primary (new) app on the list, make sure it has all the necessary rights: access to contacts, microphone, and phone. Without those permissions, it won't be able to function properly even when installed by default. Then find the old app that worked before.
Go to the settings of the old application and click the Clean button. → Clear everything (or Clear Data) this will reset its priorities.However, be careful: clearing the phone application data will result in the removal of the call log and Quick Dial settings if they are not synced to the cloud or SIM-card.
| Action. | New annex | Old appendix |
|---|---|---|
| Default installation | Select from the list | Withdraw the choice (if possible) |
| Permits | Turn it on. | We can turn it off. |
| Clearing the data | Not required | Recommended for discharge |
| Auto-start | Permission. | Banned |
After cleaning up the old app and checking the permissions of the new one, restart your smartphone, an important step because Android services often keep in mind which app handled the calls the last one, and reboot will force the system to re-interview all the components and accept your new settings.
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Tip: If you use a third-party call, be sure to turn on the “Out-Start” option in the battery settings for it so that the system does not “kill” the process and you do not miss an important call.
Solving problems with choosing an application for MIUI and HyperOS
Xiaomi Redmi owners often face an aggressive MIUI shell energy saving policy. The system can ignore your choices and return a standard call if it considers a new application to be “heavy” or unsafe. In such cases, you should go to the Security section → Permissions → Autostart and activate the slider for your new phone.
Another common problem is that there is no pop-up selection window when you first start, which can happen if you have previously ticked the “Do Not Ask Again” box for some other application. To return the choice option, you need to reset the preferences of all applications. This is done through the Settings menu → Apps → menu (three dots) → Reset application settings.
⚠️ Warning: Resetting app settings will return all default permissions and actions to factory values.You will have to re-allow access to the camera, microphone and geolocation for all programs.
It’s also worth checking whether Easy Mode or specific access profiles are enabled that may limit the functionality of third-party software. In rare cases, global firmware versions may have restrictions on the use of certain number determinants, which requires additional confirmation through a security pop-up when first run.
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Aggressive battery optimization in MIUI is the main reason why third-party calls stop working properly. Always adjust the lack of battery limitations for them.