Flashlight notifications in Xiaomi: how to turn on and configure blinking when calling/SMS

Getting visual alerts about incoming calls or messages via flashing flashlights on Xiaomi is a convenient feature, especially in noisy places or when the phone is down. However, not all users know that this feature is hidden in the MIUI settings and requires proper activation. In this article, we will discuss all the ways to turn the flashlight on notifications for different models of Redmi, POCO and Mi, and also consider the nuances of the function on the latest versions of the firmware.

It is important to understand that the configuration algorithm may differ depending on the version of MIUI (12, 13 or 14) and the device model. For example, on the flagships of the Xiaomi 13 series, the path to the option may differ from the budget Redmi Note 12. In addition, some users face the problem when the flashlight does not flash despite the settings turned on - we will take this into account.

If you’ve never used this feature, start with a basic setup through standard system settings. For advanced users, we’ll give you alternative methods using hidden menus and third-party apps (such as MacroDroid or Tasker).

Why is the flashlight on notifications useful?

Flashing a flashlight when calling or SMS is not just a “chip”, but a practical tool in several scenarios:

• 🔇 In noisy places: when the sound of the alert is drowned out by ambient noise (for example, in a club or on the street).
• 📵 Silent Mode: If you have turned off the sound but want to receive visual cues for important notifications.
• 🛌 Nighttime: Blinking is less annoying than a loud bell, but it is noticeable.
• 👁️ For people with hearing impairments: Visual alerts are becoming the primary way to get notifications.

According to a study by Xiaomi, more than 40% of smartphone users have turned on the feature at least once, but many refuse it because of the inconvenient interface settings. Meanwhile, a properly configured flashlight can save battery power (as opposed to constant vibration alerts) and does not interfere with everyday use.

Standard way to enable through MIUI settings

The most reliable method is the use of built-in MIUI tools. The instructions are suitable for most models based on Android 11-14 with a shell MIUI 12/13/14:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the Notifications and Status bar section.
3. Select Notification Indicator (in some versions – Lighting effects).
4. Activate the flashlight switch (or camera light indicator).
5. In the list below, note the types of notifications for which you need to turn on blinking (calls, SMS, instant messengers).

On some devices (such as the POCO X5 or Redmi 10C), the path may be slightly different:

Settings → Applications → Notification Management → Additional → Notification Indicator

If your menu doesn’t have flashlights on it, it could mean:

• 📱 The device does not support function (rarely, but found on older models until 2019).
• 🔄 You need to update the firmware to the latest version MIUI.
• 🔧 The function is hidden and requires activation through the developer mode.

Alternative methods of switching on a flashlight

If the standard method didn't work, try one of the alternatives, which is suitable for devices with custom firmware or outdated versions of MIUI.

Method 1: Through the Developer Mode

Some hidden options are only available after the developer mode is activated:

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. Click 7 times on MIUI until you become a developer!
3. Return to the main settings menu and open Additional → for developers.
4. Find the option Flashlight at notifications (or Notification light) and turn it on.

Method 2: Using the MacroDroid App

If the built-in settings don’t work, automate the process with MacroDroid:

1. Install the app from Google Play.
2. Create a new macro command with a trigger Notice received.
3. As an action, select Turn on the flashlight.
4. Add a delay (e.g., 1 second) and the action to turn off the flashlight.
5. Save the macro and activate it.

Method 3: Use ADB-Teams (for advanced teams)

If you are familiar with ADB, you can enable the function via the command line:

adb shell settings put global notification_light_pulse 1


adb shell settings put global notification_light_color 0xFFFFFFFF

Once you have completed the commands, restart the device, which doesn’t work on all models, but it can help on devices with MIUI 12 and below.

💡

If the flashlight flashes too often and drains the battery, limit it to important notifications (calls, SMS) in the MIUI settings.

Why does the flashlight not flash despite the settings turned on?

A common problem: the user has enabled the option in the settings, but the flashlight does not respond to notifications.

A critical feature for Xiaomi 12/13 series models: on these devices flashing flashing flashlight can conflict with the Always-On Display function. If both options are enabled, priority is given to the screen, and the flashlight does not work.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware POCO (for example, POCO F4 GT) The flashing flashlight only works when the screen is locked. Unlock the device to stop the cycle.

How do you turn off the flashlight?

If the function has become irritating or draining the battery, it can be easily deactivated:

1. Go to Settings → Notifications and Status bar → Notification indicator.
2. Turn off the flashlight switch.
3. To completely reset settings, clear the Settings application data (in Settings → Applications).

If you have used MacroDroid or other automations, be sure to remove the created macros, otherwise the flashlight may continue to blink according to the old rules.

💡

Turning off flashing flashlight does not affect the operation of the flashlight itself in manual mode - it can be used separately through the Quick Settings Panel.

Comparison of flashlight inclusion methods on different Xiaomi models

Not all Xiaomi smartphones are equally supportive of flashing flashlights, and the table below shows the differences for the popular series:

For models older than 2019 (such as the Redmi Note 7 or Mi 9), the standard option may not be available, in which case only MacroDroid or hand-held firmware with feature support will help.

Frequent questions and answers