Recording conversations on Xiaomi Redmi 9C: 5 working ways (including hidden ones)

Xiaomi Redmi 9C is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, but the feature of recording calls in it is not always obvious. Unlike flagship models, where the option can be available out of the box, here users often have to dig into the settings or install additional software. In this article, we will analyze all possible ways to enable recording of conversations, from standard MIUI tools to workarounds for firmware without built-in functionality.

It is important to understand that the recording capabilities depend on the firmware version and regional build of MIUI. For example, in European versions (MIUI EU) the function can be blocked due to legal restrictions, while in global (MIUI Global) or Chinese (MIUI China) it is available by default. We tested all methods on current versions of the firmware (2023-2026) and identified those that work stably.

Before you go to the instructions, check the legality of recording conversations in your region. In some countries (e.g. the EU), this requires the consent of the interlocutor. Technically, Xiaomi is not responsible for violating local laws, but warns about this in the license agreement.

1. Standard call record in MIUI: where to look?

If your Redmi 9C is running on global or Chinese firmware, the chances of finding the built-in recording feature are high, and it can be hidden in one of three places:

• 📞 Phone app: during the call, click on three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner – if the option is active, the button “Record” will appear there".
• ⚙️ Phone Settings: Go to Settings → Annexes → Phone. → Call recording. Some versions may have different paths: Settings → System applications → Phone.
• 🔊 Quick settings: During a conversation, swipe down the screen to open the notification bar – sometimes the record button appears there.

If none of these items are available, your firmware does not support out-of-the-box function, so move on to the following methods: on MIUI 12.5 and later on Redmi 9C, call recording can be blocked at the kernel level, as in European assemblies (EEA).

2. Enable recording through the engineering menu (for advanced)

The hidden engineering menu (MTK Engineer Mode) allows you to activate many functions that are not available in the standard interface. This method works on the Redmi 9C with a MediaTek Helio G35 processor, but requires caution - incorrect settings can lead to failures.

To open the menu:

1. Open the phone app.
2. Enter the combination: ##3646633## (or #4636## for the alternative menu).
3. Go to MTK Settings → Telephony → Call Recording.
4. Activate Enable Call Recording and save the changes.

If the menu doesn't open, your firmware has blocked access, in which case installing the MTK Engineering Mode app from Google Play (requires superuser rights on some versions) will help.

3. Applications for recording calls: top-5 tested

If the built-in methods don't work, third-party apps will come to the rescue, and we've selected those that work on the Redmi 9C and are not in conflict with MIUI:

Before installing, check the permissions of the application. Most of them will need to:

• 📞 Access to the call log.
• 🎤 Permission to use the microphone.
• 📁 File retention rights (to save records).
• 🔔 Access to notifications (to automatically start recording).

1. Check out the Android version (on Redmi 9C it's Android 10/11)

2. Clear the cache of the Phone app (Settings → Apps → Phone → Storage → Clear the cache)

3. disable battery optimization for the selected application (Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization → Find the app and turn it off)

4.Reboot the smartphone after installation-->

4. Google Drive recording: an unobvious life hack

Few people know, but Google Drive can automatically save conversation records to the cloud, which works if you have a phone app from Google (not the standard one from Xiaomi).

1. Install the Phone app from Google (unless it is installed by default).
2. Open it and go to Settings → Record calls.
3. Turn on the Automatic Record option and select Google Drive as the save location.
4. In Google Drive settings, allow the Phone app to access storage.

All records will be saved in the Call Recordings folder on your Drive, and the main advantage of this method is automatic synchronization and access to records from any device.

⚠️ Note: When using Google Drive to record calls, keep in mind that: Records take up space in cloud storage (15GB is available for free).The feature may not work on custom firmware or if Google's Phone app is not the main one. In some regions (e.g. the EU), Google blocks the entry due to legal restrictions.

5. Rooting and modifying system files (for experienced)

If you're willing to take drastic measures, getting root rights will open up access to hidden recording features, which is only suitable for users familiar with Magisk, TWRP and modification of system files. We don't recommend it for beginners - the risk of "bricking" the smartphone is high.

Algorithm of action:

1. Unlock the bootloader on Redmi 9C through the official Xiaomi website (requires an account binding Mi).
2. Install a custom TWRP recavator for your model (look for a version for Redmi 9C codenamed Angelica).
3. Please use Magisk to obtain root rights.
4. With a root-access file manager (such as Root Explorer), find the file /system/csc/others.xml.
5. Add a line to it: <CscFeature_Call_VoiceRecording>RecordingAllowed</CscFeature_Call_VoiceRecording>
6. Reset the device.

After this manipulation, a recording button should appear in the standard Phone application.

⚠️ Warning: Rooting a smartphone leads to: Warranty loss (if it is still valid); banking applications (e.g. Sberbank Online or Tinkoff); security risk (vulnerability if Magisk is not configured correctly). If you are not sure of your abilities, it is better to use one of the previous methods.

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Before rooting, make a full data backup via TWRP or Swift Backup.This will allow you to restore the system in the event of a crash. Also check Magisk compatibility with your version of MIUI on the XDA Developers forum.

6. Alternative ways: from Bluetooth headset to second phone

If the software methods don't work, you can go to the trick and use hardware solutions, which are less convenient, but they work on any device.

• 🎧 Bluetooth headset with recording: Some models (e.g. Sony Ericsson) MW600 Plantronics Voyager can record conversations during a call, and it's stored on a headset memory card.
• 📱 Second phone: Put a second smartphone next to it with the recorder on, minus the low sound quality and background noise.
• 🎤 External voice recorder: Professional devices (e.g. Olympus) WS-853) plug in 9C through a 3.5mm connector and record sound with high quality.
• 💻 Computer + AUX-cable: Connect your smartphone to your PC through AUX-cable (3.5 mm) → 3.5 mm) and record the sound through Audacity.

For the method with AUX-cable you will need:

1. Cable 3.5 mm male-male (length 1-1.5 m).
2. Software for recording sound on PC (Audacity, Ocenaudio).
3. adapter USB-C → 3.5mm if your Redmi is 9C It does not have a standard audio connector.

The quality of the recording will depend on the volume level on the smartphone and the sensitivity of the PC microphone. For best results, use an external sound card (for example, Focusrite Scarlett).

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Hardware recording methods are the only option if the software methods are locked at the firmware or carrier level, and their main advantage is independence from the MIUI version and regional restrictions.

7. Frequent problems and their solutions

Even if you manage to turn on the record, it can be difficult, and let's look at the typical situations and how to fix them:

If none of the methods worked, check:

• 📶 Regional settings: some operators (e.g. Tinkoff Mobile or Tele2) block the recording at the network level.
• 🔄 Firmware version: on Redmi 9C s MIUI 12.0.8.0 and below, the recording may not work due to bugs.
• 🛠️ System File Integrity: If the smartphone has previously undergone unofficial modifications, the functions of the device MIUI may be damaged.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions