Xiaomi Redmi 9C is a popular budget smartphone with a MIUI shell, but even in the basic configuration it lacks one useful feature: automatically turn on the flashlight when incoming calls. If you often call in dark rooms or want the subscriber to immediately see your face during a video call, this instruction will help you set up auto-activation of the backlight.
Unlike Xiaomiβs flagship models, where the feature can be built into firmware, the Redmi 9C It has to be configured manually β through hidden settings, third-party applications or MIUI-We'll look at all the working methods, including those that don't require superuser rights. MIUI (See the compatibility table below).
Why doesnβt Redmi 9C have a flashlight feature built in?
Xiaomi deliberately restricts the functionality of budget models to encourage the purchase of more expensive devices.In the firmware Redmi 9C (codename angelica) is missing the option Flash on Call, which is, for example, in the POCO X3 or Mi 11.
- π± Hardware limitations: weak MediaTek Helio processor G35 Not optimized for background tasks.
- π Savings: Automatic flashlights consume up to 5% of battery per hour in standby mode.
- π οΈ Simplified firmware: in MIUI For budget models removed "unnecessary" features.
But you can get around that limitation in at least 5 ways, and then we'll go through each one with step-by-step screenshots and nuances.
Method 1: Through Hidden MIUI Settings (without root)
The safest method is to activate the hidden Flashlight on Call option via the engineering menu, running on MIUI 12-14 (newer versions may not).
- Open the phone app and dial the combination: ##6484##
- Select Manual Test β Flashlight Test from the menu that appears.
- Activate the Flash on Call switch (if not, see Method 2).
- Reboot the phone.
Important: After the MIUI update, the setting may reset. Check it every 2-3 months.
Check the version of MIUI in Settings β About the phone
Battery charge > 30%
Disable VPN (can block the engineering menu)
Make a backup copy of your contacts-->
Method 2: Apps from Google Play (without root)
If there is no hidden option, use third-party utilities.The best options for Redmi 9C:
| Annex | Ratings. | Needs root? | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flash On Call | 4.7 β | β No. | Operates in the background, minimum battery consumption |
| Flash Alerts 2 | 4.5 β | β No. | Supports tuning of color and frequency of blinking |
| Flash Notification | 4.3 β | β Yes (for extended functions) | May include flashlights for SMS and notifications |
Instructions for Flash On Call:
- Install the app from Google Play.
- Launch and grant permissions to Calls and Camera.
- Enable the Enable Flash on Call switch.
- Select Only Incoming Calls (Incoming Calls Only)
β οΈ Note: Some applications (e.g. Flash Alerts 2) may conflict with MIUI Optimizer. If the flashlight doesn't work, turn off battery optimization for the utility in Settings β Annexes β Permits β Auto-start.
Method 3: Through Automate (for advanced users)
If you like automation, use the Automate app (formerly LlamaLab Automate), which allows you to create a flashlight rule when calling without root.
Algorithm:
- Install Automate from Google Play.
- Create a new stream (New Flow).
- Add the phone call received block.
- Connect the Flashlight block and select Turn on.
- Add the Phone call ended block and connect Flashlight β Turn off to it.
A critical caveat: MIUI 13+ Automate may require permission for Special Access (Settings β Special app access β Device admin apps).
How to export Automate stream for backup?
Method 4: Through ADB-Teams (for experienced teams)
If you're willing to work with ADB, you can force the hidden function to activate, which works on MIUI 12-14, but requires a computer.
Instructions:
- Install ADB Tools on your PC.
- Turn on USB Debugging on your phone (Settings β About Phone β MIUI Version β 7 times click on version β go back to Additional Settings β For Developers).
- Get Redmi on board. 9C The command is: adb shell settings put global flash_on_call_enabled 1
- Reboot the phone.
β οΈ Note: After resetting settings or updating MIUI You'll have to do it again. There's also some firmware, MIUI EU) They can block this change.
π‘
Before working with ADB, check if the device is recognized by the adb device command. If not, install the Xiaomi USB Drivers from the official website.
Method 5: Firmware custom recovery (for enthusiasts)
If youβre ready for radical measures, installing TWRP and modified firmware (such as Xiaomi.eu or Pixel Experience) will open up access to advanced flashlight settings.
- π§ Requires bootloader unlock (bootloader unlock).
- π Cancels the guarantee.
- β οΈ The risk of βbrickingβ the phone in case of an error.
If you decide, follow the instructions with XDA Developers, but note: for Redmi 9C (angelica) stable builds TWRP is not enough.
π‘
Custom firmware provides maximum flexibility, but requires technical skills. For most users, there are enough methods 1-3.
Frequent problems and solutions
Even after setting up, the flashlight may not turn on. Common causes and fixes:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The flashlight flashes, but does not burn constantly. | Limitation of MIUI on long-term operation of backlight | Use Flash On Call with Persistent Mode |
| The function works only when the screen is unlocked. | Battery optimization blocks background processes | Turn off optimization for the application in the settings |
| The flashlight is turned on with a delay (1-2 seconds) | Loading the camera module takes time | Install MIUI Optimizer and clear the camera cache |
If none of the methods worked, check:
- π¦ Manual operation of the flashlight (in the notification panel).
- π± Firmware version: on MIUI 15+ A different approach may be required.
- π‘οΈ Antivirus: Some (like Avast) block access to the camera.