Have you turned on a conversation record on a Xiaomi smartphone but can't find the file you saved? Or want to change the folder to store audio recordings so they don't take up space in your main memory? In this article, we'll look at where the default conversation records on Redmi, POCO and Mi phones are saved, how to find them through a file manager or PC, and how to reconfigure the save path.
The problem with finding records often arises from the features of the MIUI shell: files can be hidden in non-obvious folders or have custom extensions. In addition, different versions of firmware and models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro vs Redmi Note 10) paths may differ. We collected current information for all modern devices and versions of MIUI (including MIUI 14/15), and added instructions for older models.
Why the recordings of conversations “disappear” in Xiaomi
Users often experience that the recording of the conversation allegedly did not survive - although the feature was activated.
- 📁 The wrong folder by default: MIUI Stores files not in Downloads or Music, but in hidden system directories.
- 🔍 Files hidden: some records are marked as system and not displayed without displaying hidden files.
- 📱 Model limitations: on some devices (e.g, POCO F5) Recording conversations blocked at firmware level.
- 🔄 Autoclean: If Memory Optimization is enabled, old records can be deleted automatically.
Another common reason is that there's no recording permission for the Phone app, and if you manually deny access to the microphone or storage, the recording either won't start or the file won't save. → Annexes → Phone. → Permits.
Where conversation records are stored by default
In most Xiaomi models (starting with MIUI 12), conversation records are saved to the following folder:
/storage/emulated/0/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/However, the path may vary depending on:
- 📱 Phone models: on Redmi and POCO Sometimes you use a recorder folder instead of a recorder. sound_recorder.
- 🔄 Versions MIUI: into MIUI 14+ files may be stored in /storage/emulated/0/Recordings/.
- 🛠️ Castom firmware: on unofficial assemblies (for example, Xiaomi.EU) the path may differ.
File format: Records are saved in.m4a (AAC) or.amr (to save space) formats. The file name usually contains the date, time and subscriber number, for example:
call_rec_20260515_143022_+79123456789.m4a💡
If you can't see the folder MIUI or sound_recorder, Enable the display of hidden files in the file manager (in the menu) → «Show hidden files»).
How to find conversation records through file manager
The easiest way is to use the built-in MI File Manager or a third-party application (such as Solid Explorer).
- Open the Files app (the folder icon on the desktop).
- Go to the Device (or Internal Memory) section.
- Open the folder. MIUI → sound_recorder → call_rec.
- If the folder is not available, check the alternative paths: /Recordings/CallRecordings/ /Download/Call_Records/ (some POCO)
If you use Google Files or another manager, use a keyword search: type in call_rec or.m4a search-line.
☑️ Searching for conversation records
How to Change the Place of Records Saving
By default, MIUI does not allow you to select a folder for recording conversations through your phone's settings, but there are a few workarounds:
Method 1: Manual file transfer
You can set up automatic transfer of records to the cloud or another folder using the Automate or Tasker app. For example, create a task that will copy new files from the cloud. /MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/ into /Download/Call_Records/.
Method 2: Using a third-party recorder
Install an alternative call recorder app (such as Cube Call Recorder or ACR) where you can select a save folder. These programs also support recording VoIP calls (WhatsApp, Telegram), which is not how a standard Xiaomi call can.
How to Reconfigure the Save Path in Cube Call Recorder
Method 3: Symbolic reference (for advanced)
If you have root access, you can create a symbolic link using ADB or Terminal:
ln -s /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec /storage/emulated/0/Download/Call_RecordsThis command will “redirect” the standard folder to Downloads, but requires superuser rights.
💡
Standard MIUI tools don't change the way you save conversation records. Use third-party apps or automatic file transfer.
How to listen to and manage records
You can listen to the conversation records directly in the file manager (stick to the file) or through any audio player application.
- 🎧 Player: Use it VLC or MX Player to play.m4a.
- 🗃️ Sorting: Rename files by date or contact (e.g., Ivanov_15.05.2026.m4a).
- ☁️ Backup: Upload records to Google Drive or Mi Cloud (in Settings) → Xiaomi Cloud → Backup).
- 🗑️ Delete: Old records can be manually deleted or set up to automatically clean through Settings → Warehouse → Cleanup.
Important: Records of conversations can take up a significant amount of space before 5–10 MB per minute of conversation in format.m4a. Check the folder regularly call_rec and clean up unnecessary files.
Problems with recording conversations and their solutions
If the recording is not saved or interrupted, check the following points:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The recording doesn't start. | There is no microphone permit. | Check the settings → Applications → Phone → Permissions |
| File is empty (0 KB) | Failure during recording | Restart the phone and repeat the call. |
| No sound on the record. | Locking the microphone by the operator | Use a speakerphone or third-party recorder |
| Records missing after update | Resetting or changing paths in MIUI | Check the folder. /MIUI/backup/call_rec/ |
On some models (such as Xiaomi 12T or Redmi K50), recording conversations may be blocked due to operator policy, in which case only third-party VoIP-enabled software will help.
💡
If the recording stops after 1-2 minutes, try to turn off the Battery Optimization function for the Phone application in the settings.
Security and legal nuances
Recording conversations without the consent of the interlocutor may violate the laws of your country. In Russia, according to article 138 of the criminal code, recording a conversation without notice is allowed only if you are a participant in the conversation.
- ⚖️ In the EU (GDPR) The consent of both parties is required.
- 📞 In some countries (e.g. Germany) recording conversations without notice is prohibited.
- 🔒 Storage of personal data records must comply with data protection laws.
If you use the recordings for judicial or work purposes, make sure they are obtained legally. MIUI does not have a built-in recording notice, but some third-party applications (such as ACR) can play an audible signal at the beginning of a conversation.
⚠️ Warning: Keeping conversation records on cloud services (such as Mi Cloud) can lead to leakage of sensitive information.