The modern smartphone is a complex hardware and software complex, where the standard call app often does not meet the needs of advanced users. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices regularly face the need to replace the system “bell ringer” with a more functional counterpart, this may be due to the desire for improved spam blocking, a more convenient interface or specific features of recording conversations that are missing in stock firmware.
The process of replacing a regular application does not require obtaining superuser rights (root) and can be executed by any user in a few minutes. However, it is worth considering that the MIUI shell or its modern version of HyperOS have their own features of managing permissions and application priorities. Incorrect configuration can lead to the fact that the new software simply does not start on an incoming call or will work unstable in the background.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithm for installing and activating third-party dialing. You will learn what popular alternatives exist, how to properly configure access rights and what to do if the system forcibly returns you to the standard interface.
Why you should consider changing the standard application
A regular application preinstalled by the manufacturer is often overloaded with unnecessary elements or, conversely, devoid of important functions. For example, many users complain about the lack of convenient automatic recording of conversations or not flexible enough to customize the design topic.
In addition, third-party developers often implement advanced algorithms for identifying numbers and blocking unwanted calls. Google Phone, for example, has one of the most relevant databases of spam numbers, updated in real time, which helps to avoid communication with scammers and intrusive advertisers, which is especially relevant in the current environment.
Another important aspect is interface optimization: Some callers offer increased buttons, voice control, or instant messenger integration, and for people with low vision or who are often behind the wheel, these features are becoming critical to comfortably using the gadget.
- 📞 Advanced Capability for Recording Conversations with Automatic Save to the Cloud.
- 🛡️ Improved protection against spam and telemarketing thanks to crowdsourcing databases.
- 🎨 Deep customization of the appearance and theme of interface design.
- 🔊 Better sound and support HD-codecs when calling through the operator.
⚠️ Warning: When installing third-party apps from unknown sources, always check the permissions you request. Don't trust access to microphones and contacts to questionable low-ranking software in the store.
Popular Alternatives to a Staff Call
The mobile app market offers many replacement options, but not all of them are compatible with the Android architecture on Xiaomi devices. The market leader is rightly considered Google Dialer, which is often already built into the system, but can be updated or activated as a primary, it is characterized by minimalism and high stability.
For those who want to control their appearance, Truecaller is a great fit, not just a bell, but a powerful harvester for identifying callers and blocking ads, but it is worth remembering that the application requires the transfer of contact data to the developer's servers to operate the number database, which can cause questions for users who care about privacy.
There are also lightweight versions, like Simple Dialer, that focus on speed and no redundant rights, which are perfect for older smartphone models, where every megabyte of RAM counts, and the choice of a particular application depends on your priorities: functionality, privacy or design.
Below is a comparative table of the main characteristics of popular applications to make it easier for you to decide on the choice.
| Annex | Blocking spam | Recording of conversations | Size of APK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Phone | Tall. | Automatic (depending on the region) | ~150MB |
| Truecaller | Maximum | Subscription required | ~200MB |
| Simple Dialer | Basic (blacklist) | Absent. | ~5MB |
| MIUI Dialer | Medium | Aye (with notice) | Systemic |
Instructions for installing and activating a new application
The replacement process begins with downloading the installation file or searching for the application in the official Google Play Market Store. After downloading, the system can request confirmation of the installation from unknown sources if you use it. APK-file from a third party resource. You must allow the browser or file manager to install programs.
After a successful installation, take your time to remove the old app. Start a new caller and give it all the permissions you need. Android will require access to contacts, microphone, phone and call log, without these rights, the app will not be able to function properly.
The key is to change the default app. To do this, go to your smartphone settings, find the Apps section, and select the Default Apps section. In the list, find the Phone category and select the installed app from the list, and now the new interface will open when the incoming call.
☑️ Checklist for call activation
In some cases, especially on global firmware versions, the system may insist on returning a standard call, ignore these notifications or select Always Use if this option is available in the dialog box, which will consolidate your choice in the priority system.
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If after choosing a new default application, calls still go through the old program, try rebooting the device, which will help the system completely reconfigure call routing.
Setup of permits and optimization of work in the background
MIUI and HyperOS shells are known for their aggressive energy saving policies that can kill off third-party background processes. To avoid missed calls, you need to manually adjust the behavior of the application. Go to Settings → Apps → All Apps, find your new call.
In the app menu, go to Battery or Energy Saving and select No Limits mode, which will prevent the system from unloading the app from RAM, and it is also recommended to enable auto-start so that the program starts immediately after the phone is turned on.
Pay special attention to permissions. Make sure you allow access to "Map on top of other applications." Without this right, the incoming call pop-up window may not appear on the screen if you are using another application at that time or the screen is locked.
⚠️ Warning: Giving the Display on top of other apps right gives the program full control of the screen during the call.Make sure you downloaded the original app from a trusted developer.
For advanced users, settings through a hidden menu can be useful, and by entering the ##4636### code in the dial box, you can enter the test menu, which displays connection information. However, beware: changing the settings in this menu without understanding the process can lead to loss of communication.
Hidden codes for diagnosing calls
Possible problems and ways to solve them
A common problem is the conflict between the MIUI system call and the installed analogue, which can manifest itself in double-ringing when the interface appears twice, or in the inability to complete the call, in which case it is recommended to clear the cache of both applications through the settings menu.
If the speaker is missing after installing the new software or the interlocutor can’t hear you, check the privacy settings. In new versions of Android, there is a “Approximate Location” function or limited access to the microphone, which can block the operation of VoIP protocols or standard telephony.
If the app crashes when dialing, try removing it and installing the previous stable version.Sometimes new updates contain bugs that are not compatible with all Snapdragon or MediaTek processor models used in Xiaomi smartphones.
- 🔄 Clear the cache and application data in the Memory section».
- 🔋 Turn off the energy saving mode for a specific program.
- 📲 Check for system and application updates.
- 🗑️ Remove and reinstall if the problem persists.
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Most of the problems with third-party calls on Xiaomi are solved by the right mood of the battery access rights and the permission to work in the background.
Return to the standard MIUI call
If you didn't do well with the new app, or if you realized that you were more comfortable with the functionality of the standard solution, it's very easy to get it back, so you don't have to reinstall the system or reset the settings. You just have to go back to the settings menu.
Follow Settings → Applications → Default Applications → Phone. From the list that opens, select Phone (green handset icon) and switch instantly to the standard call processing algorithm. All settings, contacts and call history will remain safe, as they are stored in the system’s shared database, not in a specific application.
It's worth noting that once you return to the stock version, some settings that have been changed by a third-party application (such as the themes of the design or specific vibration sounds) can be reset to standard ones. This is normal behavior of the operating system when you change the active component of the interface.