Recording phone conversations on Xiaomi smartphones is a challenge that users face for a variety of reasons, from fixing important business negotiations to preserving evidence in controversial situations. However, not everyone knows that recording capabilities depend on the device model, MIUI version, and even regional restrictions. In this article, we will examine all the current ways from built-in functions to third-party applications, including bypassing locks and hidden recording.
It is important to understand that the legality of recording conversations is regulated by the laws of your country. In Russia, for example, according to article 23 of the Constitution, recording a conversation without the consent of the interlocutor is allowed only if you are a participant in it. But even in this case, using the recording in court or publicly distributing it may require additional evidence. Before you start, make sure that your actions do not violate the law.
1. Built-in MIUI recording function: where to look and how to turn on
Some Xiaomi models (mostly the flagship Mi 10/11/12 series, Redmi K40/K50 and later) have a built-in conversation recording feature, but it is often hidden or disabled by default.
- Open the Phone app and go to Settings β Record conversations.
- If there is no item, check the MIUI version: in global firmware, the function may be absent, and in Chinese (China ROM) - it may be available by default.
- On some devices, the recording is activated automatically when you press β’ β’ (three dots) during a call.
Critical detail: built-in recording in MIUI Stores files in.amr format in a folder MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec. These files are not encrypted, so when transferring a device for repair or sale, they should be manually deleted.
If your firmware doesn't have a built-in record, don't despair -- we'll look at alternative methods below. But first, check if the operator is blocking this function. For example, MTS and Beeline sometimes limit the recording capabilities at the level of the recording. SIM-map.
2. applications for recording conversations: TOP-5 proven options
The app side is the most versatile way to record, but with nuances. First, with the release of Android 10+, Google tightened the rules for accessing the microphone during calls. Second, many apps have been removed from Google Play due to a violation of privacy policy.
- π± Cube Call Recorder ACR β Supports VoIP recording (WhatsApp, Viber) and regular calls. Works through a virtual microphone, but requires manual settings in Settings β Special facilities.
- π€ Call Recorder by Lovekesh is a simple interface, saves records to the cloud. Minus: in the free version, the limit on recording duration (3 minutes).
- π Boldbeast Call Recorder is one of the few apps that bypasses the limitations of Android 10+. Supports Xiaomi on Qualcomm and Mediatek chips, but requires manual selection of sound source.
- π Truecaller β besides spam definition, has a built-in record (not available in all regions.
- π‘οΈ OTT Call Recorder specializes in recording VoIP calls (Telegram, Skype), minus: does not record regular voice calls.
Before installing, check compatibility with your Xiaomi model. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro with MIUI 14 works better with the Cube ACR or Boldbeast, and the Poco F4 may require additional permission settings.
Install the application from an official source (APKMirror or Google Play)
Provide all the permissions requested (microphone, memory, phone)
In the application settings, select the recording format (MP3 or AMR)
Check the test call for sound quality
Disable Battery Optimization for the Application in Settings β Apps β Permissions β Battery Optimization
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3. Hidden recording of conversations: how to make sure that the interlocutor does not know
If you want to record a conversation in secret, consider that most modern applications give off an audible signal or notification.
- Use the second device: put a second phone with the recorder on next to it (like the old Redmi 4A).
- Google Drive/Screen Recording: Enable audio capture screen recording (Settings β Additional β Screen recording) and simultaneously launch a voice call. The method works only for VoIP.
- Modified firmware: Some custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience for Xiaomi) has a hidden record, but this requires unlocking the bootloader and risking the device to be βbrickedβ.
Warning: a hidden record may be considered a violation of the law on personal data (FZ-152 in Russia), if the conversation concerns trade secrets or personal life, its publication without consent may lead to legal action.
How to find a hidden entry on your Xiaomi?
4. Record VoIP calls (WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram) on Xiaomi
Calls via messengers are recorded differently than regular phone conversations, and here are the working methods for popular services:
| messenger | Recording | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Cube ACR with VoIP Record option enabled | It doesnβt work on Android 12+ without root rights | |
| Viber | Built-in recording function (long press on the hands-free button) | The interviewee receives a notice of the record |
| Telegram | @CallRecBot bot or screen recording with sound | The bot only records your side of the conversation. |
| Skype | Third-party programs (MP3 Recorder) | Requires setting up a virtual audio device |
For WhatsApp and Telegram, the most reliable way is to use a second device with the voice recorder on, for example, you can put a Xiaomi Pad 6 tablet with the running Dolby Audio Recorder app (available in the Mi App Store for Chinese firmware).
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If recording VoIP calls doesnβt work, try turning off Bluetooth headphones β they can block the microphoneβs audio capture.
5. Guide to setting up Boldbeast Call Recorder on Xiaomi
Boldbeast is one of the few apps that continues to run on the latest versions of MIUI and Android. Here is a step-by-step guide for Xiaomi models:
- Download Boldbeast from the official website (not from Play Market!) Install APK by allowing installation from unknown sources.
- Launch the application and select the record type: π Record Mode 1 β for Qualcomm devices (most of Xiaomi). π§ Record Mode 6 β for devices on Mediatek (Redmi Note series) 8/9).
Fix Audio Routing
Audio Source
Voice Uplink + Downlink
If the recording is noisy or interrupted after setting up, check:
- π Is the mode activated Do not disturb.
- πΆ Cellular stability (a bad signal can interrupt recording).
- π Battery Optimization: Add Boldbeast to Exceptions in Settings β Battery β Optimizing the battery.
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On Xiaomi with Android 13+, Boldbeast can require root rights to record both people fully. Without root, only your voice will be recorded.
6.Alternative methods: recording via PC or other device
If the software methods do not work, you can record the conversation using external devices:
- π» Using a computer: connect Xiaomi to the PC USB, Turn on the debugging. USB And use software like Scrcpy to record a screen with sound.
- π§ Through headphones with microphone: connect wired headphones (such as Xiaomi Hybrid) and use their microphone to record via voice recorder.
- πΌ Through an external voice recorder: devices like Sony ICD-UX570 or Zoom H1n They provide better quality than software solutions.
Recording via PC will require:
- Install ADB-driver for Xiaomi.
- Enable USB Debugging in Settings β About Phone β Assembly Number (7 taps) β For developers.
- Run the command: adb shell am start -n com.android.tv.settings/.device.app.AppsAllSettingsActivity (this will open hidden audio settings where you can redirect the audio stream).
β οΈ Note: PC recording may be detected by antivirus as suspicious activity. disable Windows Defender or add an exception for the program used.
7 Legal Aspects: What Can and Cannot Be Done With Records
In Russia, recording a conversation without the consent of the interlocutor is allowed if you are a participant in it (Article 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation).
- π Use in court: the record may be accepted as evidence, but the court may request confirmation of its authenticity (for example, examination).
- π« Publication on the network: distribution of the record without the consent of the interlocutor can be qualified as a violation of Art. 137 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation ("Violation of privacy").
- πΌ Corporate conversations: if the conversation concerns a trade secret, its recording and distribution may entail liability under Art. 183 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.
In other countries, the rules are tougher:
- πΊπΈ In the United States (in most states) consent is required for all participants in the conversation.
- πͺπΊ The EU is operating GDPR, which prohibits recording without informing the interlocutor.
- π¨π³ Recording conversations without consent is considered a violation of cybersecurity law in China.
β οΈ Note: if you recorded a conversation for the purpose of blackmail or extortion, it is a crime under article 163 of the criminal code of the Russian Federation ("Extortion.