You recorded an important conversation on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9, but can't find the file? Or want to know where the default audio recordings from the recorder and calls are saved? In this article, we will analyze all possible storage locations on your smartphone, from standard folders to hidden MIUI directories. You will also learn how to change the save path, restore deleted files and why records can "disappear" after system updates.
The challenge of finding audio files on Redmi Note 9 is complicated by the fact that MIUI uses a non-standard folder structure, and some records (such as calls) can be stored in protected memory areas. We analyzed all scenarios — from recording through an embedded voice recorder to using third-party applications — and put together a checklist for quick search. If you don't find an answer in the first sections, look at the FAQ at the end of the article, where rare cases are broken down.
Standard storage locations for Redmi Note 9
By default, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 saves audio files in two main locations, depending on the recording method:
- Dictaphone MIUI — records are saved in the folder /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/sound_recorder/. Files have extensions.m4a or.mp3 (depending on the firmware version).
- Call recording – if the function is activated in the settings, files appear in the /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/voice_recorder/call_rec/. The file name contains the date, time and subscriber number (for example, 20260515_143022_+79123456789.m4a).
Important: the /storage/emulated/0/ path is the root directory of internal memory, which is displayed as the Internal Storage in the file manager. If you connect your phone to a PC, these folders will be available in the Internal Storage section.
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To quickly find the folder with records, open the MIUI recorder, click on any record and select "More" → "Show in the folder." The system will automatically open the file manager in the desired directory.
If you use a third-party application (like Call Recorder or ASR Voice Recorder), the ways you save it may be different.
- 📁 /storage/emulated/0/Download/ (unless the settings have been changed)
- 📁 /storage/emulated/0/[Name annex]/ (e.g, /CallRecorder/)
- 📁 /storage/emulated/0/Android/data/[package]/files/ (for isolated storage applications)
How to check if the call recording is included
On the Redmi Note 9, the call recording feature is disabled by default due to legal restrictions in some countries.
- Open the Phone app.
- Press three points (⋮) top-right → Settings.
- Go to the Record of Conversations section.
- Turn on the Automatic Record switch or select Record manually.
If you don't have a Record Conversations menu, your version of MIUI doesn't support it, so use third-party apps (for which you'll find the next section).
⚠️ Note: In some regions (e.g. the EU), recording calls without the consent of the interlocutor is prohibited by law.
The Write App Side: Where They Store Files
If you don't like the built-in MIUI tools, you can install alternative apps. Popular options for the Redmi Note 9:
- 🎤 Cube Call Recorder ACR — preserve /ACR/ or /CallRecordings/, Supports cloud backup.
- 📼 Call Recorder – Automatic Call Recorder – files are stored in the /CallRecorder/, It's an encryption function.
- 🔊 ASR Voice Recorder - Recording in /ASR/, allow you to choose the format (MP3, WAV, OGG).
To find out the exact way to save in a third-party application:
- Open the application settings.
- Find the Warehouse or the Rescue folder.
- If no path is specified, write down the test file and check its location through a file manager (e.g. Mi File Manager or Solid Explorer).
Why do apps ask for access to contacts and microphones?
If no records are saved after installing the application, check:
- 🔕 Permissions to Settings → Annexes → [Name of the annex] → Permits.
- 📵 No application in the battery optimization list (Settings) → Battery → Optimizing the battery).
- 🔊 Recording settings in the application itself (e.g., sound source: Microphone or VoIP).
Why records disappear or don't persist
Redmi Note 9 users often face a problem when records suddenly disappear.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Records are not retained. | Lack of space on the internal storage | Clear the cache or transfer the files to SD-map |
| Files disappear after rebooting | App added to battery optimization list | Eliminate it from optimization in battery settings |
| Records are cut off. | Power saving mode activated | Turn off the mode or add the application to exceptions |
| Files are damaged. | Conflict with other audio applications | Close all programs that use the microphone |
A critical feature of MIUI is that after major system updates (e.g., from MIUI 12 to MIUI 13), the path to the records folders may change, while old files are not automatically transferred - they must be copied manually.
⚠️ Note: If you use device encryption (included in Settings) → Security → Encryption, call records can be stored encrypted and not opened on other devices. To avoid data loss, regularly export files to an unencrypted format.
How to Recover Deleted Records
If you accidentally delete an important record, you can try to restore it. On the Redmi Note 9, the following methods will work for this.
- Recycle Bin Check: In the MIUI file manager, go to Categories → Recycle Bin. Deleted files are stored there for 15 days.
- Specialized annexes: 🔍 DiskDigger scans internal memory for deleted audio files. 🗑️ Recuva (for PC) – connect your phone in File Transfer mode and scan the drive.
Backup copies:
Mi Cloud
Importantly, the fewer operations you do on your phone after deleting, the better the chances of recovery, and when you write new files, old data is overwritten.
Do not record new audio files|Disconnect your phone from the internet (to prevent changes from synchronizing)|Use the Recovery Program in the First 24 Hours|Check the Recycle Bin in the File Manager-->
If the recording was made through a side app, check its own cart or cloud storage (if the feature has been activated).In Cube Call Recorder, for example, deleted files are stored in /ACR/Trash/ folder for up to 30 days.
How to Change the Place of Records Saving
By default, all audio files are saved to internal memory, but on the Redmi Note 9 you can redirect them to the memory. SD-map or cloud. Instructions for different cases:
1. Transfer to SD-map
For the built-in MIUI recorder:
- Open the Dictaphone app.
- Press three points (⋮) → Settings.
- Select the Conservation Folder → SD-map.
For third-party apps, the path changes in their settings, such as in Cube Call Recorder:
- Open the application → Settings → folder records.
- Point the way of the species /storage/XXXX-XXXX/External_SD/CallRecordings/ (where XXXX-XXXX — ID your card).