How to return an old phone call to Xiaomi: all working ways in 2026

After updating the firmware on Xiaomi, many users are faced with dramatic changes in the interface of the standard mobile application. A new call in MIUI 14/15 or HyperOS can seem uncomfortable: a changed location of the buttons, a different keyboard design, the lack of familiar features like quick access to contacts. Fortunately, it is possible to return the old version of the application - and we will tell you how to do this without the risk of "bricking" the device.

In this article, you will find the latest ways to roll back calls on all modern Xiaomi smartphones, including models on HyperOS, as well as alternative solutions for those who do not want to risk system files. We tested each method on Redmi Note 12, Poco X5 and Xiaomi 13T devices – all instructions are valid at the time of publication (June 2026).

Why Xiaomi is Changing Calls and Can It Be Officially Returned?

With each new version of MIUI (and now HyperOS), Xiaomi is aiming to unify the design of system applications under a single corporate identity.

• 🎨 New minimalist interface with a focus on gestures (e.g. swipe to answer/deflect a call).
• 📱 Integration with Xiaomi services (e.g., quick access to Mi Pay or Mi Home right while calling).
• 🔍 The modified logic of contact search, which many find less convenient.
• 📞 Other button location (e.g., the hands-free button is now hidden under the optional menu).

There is no official way to return an old call through Xiaomi's settings, but there are workarounds:

1. Recoil system APK via ADB (requires an unlocked bootloader).
2. Install a modified version of the application from third-party developers.
3. Use alternative calls from Google Play.
4. Downgrade firmware to the previous version of MIUI (risky!).

Method 1: Recoiling calls through ADB (no root)

This is the most reliable method that works on most Xiaomi devices with an unlocked bootloader.

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB-Drivers and Platform Tools.
• 📱 Xiaomi smartphone with enabled debugging USB (Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times tap, then Settings → Additionally. → For developers).
• 🔗 The file of the old version of the call (APK). Download here (see com.android.dialer for your model).

Step-by-step:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm access by ADB (the phone will receive a request).
2. Open the command line in the folder with Platform Tools and execute: Adb devices Make sure the device is defined.
3. Delete the current call (data will be saved!): adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.dialer
4. Install the old version of APK: adb install -r -d com.android.dialer.apk (replace com.android.dialer.apk with your file name).
5. Reboot the phone.

Download Platform Tools from Google|

Enable debugging over USB on Xiaomi|

Download APK old call for your model |

Connect your phone to your PC with the original cable-->

Important! After updating the firmware, the call may update to the new version again. To avoid this, turn off automatic updates to system applications in Settings → Applications → Application Management → Phone → Auto Update.

Method 2: Install a modified call from third-party developers

If ADB seems too complicated, you can install a modified version of the standard call from enthusiasts.

• 📲 MIUI Dialer Mod – retains the original design, but adds theme and font settings.
• 🔄 Xiaomi EU Dialer – version of Xiaomi.EU firmware (often more stable than stock).
• 🎭 Pixel Dialer Port – a call from Google Pixel, adapted for Xiaomi.

Where to download and how to install:

1. Download APK from a trusted source (we recommend XDA Developers or Telegram-channel MIUI Russia).
2. Before installing, remove the standard call updates: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.dialer
3. Install the downloaded APK (allow installation from unknown sources in the security settings).
4. Assign a new application to the default call in Settings → Apps → By default → Phone.

Warning: Modified APKs may contain vulnerabilities. Check the hash file (e.g. via VirusTotal) before installing it and read feedback on forums.

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If contacts are lost after installing the modified call, sync them again through Settings → Google Accounts → Contact Synchronization.

Method 3: Use alternative calls from Google Play

If you don’t really need to use a standard Xiaomi call, there are dozens of alternatives with a classic interface on Google Play.

How to set up an alternative call:

1. Install the selected application from Google Play.
2. Run it and allow access to contacts, microphone and phone features.
3. Go to Settings → Applications → Default → Phone and select a new app.
4. If necessary, disable notifications from the standard Xiaomi call to avoid duplication.

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Alternative calls are the safest way to do so, as they do not require any interference with system files, but some functions (such as recording calls) may not work smoothly on custom firmware.

Method 4: Downgrade firmware (extreme case)

If you're critically interested in returning the entire old version of MIUI with an old call, you can do a downgrade of firmware. This method is risky and only suitable for advanced users!

What you need to know before Downgraid:

• ⚠️ Data loss risk – make a full backup before the procedure via Settings → Additionally. → Backup.
• ⚠️ It is possible to block the bootloader - on some models (for example, Xiaomi). 12S Ultra) after downgrade may need to unlock through Mi Unlock Tool.
• ⚠️ Loss of warranty – official service centers may refuse repairs after unauthorized firmware changes.

Step-by-step:

1. Download the desired firmware version from the official Xiaomi website (choose Stable, not Developer, if you are not sure).
2. Rename the file to update.zip and place it at the root of the phone’s internal memory.
3. Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update → Click on the three dots in the upper right corner → Select a firmware file.
4. Select update.zip and confirm installation. The phone will restart.

⚠️ Attention: on devices with HyperOS downgrade to MIUI This may cause some functions to fail (such as navigation gestures or cameras) before the procedure, check for compatibility on forums. 4PDA or XDA.

Method 5: Set up a new call for yourself (if rollback is impossible)

If none of these things worked or you don't want to take risks, you can adapt the new call to your needs.

• 🎨 Dark theme: Go to Settings → Screen. → Dark mode or turn it on directly in the call (if supported).
• 🔕 Quick access to contacts: add the Contacts widget to the home screen (Long tap on the screen) → Widgets → Contacts).
• 📵 Blocking Spam: Activate the Built-in Filter in Your Phone → Settings → Lockdown and protection.
• 🔊 Call volume: Set up separate levels for melody and notifications in Settings → Sounds and vibrations.

For advanced users:

• Use Tasker or MacroDroid to create your own gestures to manage calls.
• Install the Xposed Framework (requires root) and the MIUI Dialer Tweaks module for fine-tuning the interface.

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If you are missing the hands-free button on the call screen, add it via Settings → Special Features → Managing Physical Buttons (on some models).

Frequent problems and their solutions

When you try to return an old call, users encounter common errors, and we've collected the most common and corrective ways to do this:

If after all the manipulations the call did not work, try resetting the phone to the factory settings (Settings → About Phone → Resetting).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions