Recording phone conversations on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones is a feature that appears in MIUI firmware and disappears due to changes in Google policy and local laws. In 2026, recording capabilities depend on the device model, MIUI version (14 or 15) and the firmware region. For example, on global versions for Europe, recording calls is often blocked out of the box, while on Chinese or Indian firmware it can work without restrictions.
In this article, we'll look at all the current ways, from embedded tools to third-party applications, including bypassing restrictions through ADB and hidden MIUI settings. Also, we'll tell you where the records are stored, how to export them to your PC, and why some conversations may not be saved. If you need to restore a randomly deleted record or enable a feature on the firmware where it is disabled, here's a solution.
1. Built-in call recording in MIUI: where to look and how to turn on
On most Xiaomi smartphones (except for the European versions), recording conversations is implemented through the standard Phone application. MIUI:
- π± MIUI 14/15 (Android 13/14): The entry is available in the menu during the call (the Record icon next to the hands-free button).
- π Global firmware (EEA): function is hidden or disabled due to GDPR. Requires unlocking through ADB.
- π¨π³ Chinese firmware: recording works without restrictions, but may require confirmation of the interlocutor (depends on the operator).
To check for the presence of the function:
- Open the phone app.
- Dial the number and make the call.
- During the conversation, pay attention to the control panel - if there is an icon "RecordΒ» (π€), Click on it. The system will notify the person you're recording (in some regions).
Where are the records stored? Files are saved in a folder. /sdcard/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/.amr or.mp3. They can be listened to through any player or sent via messenger. On devices with encryption (for example, Xiaomi). 13 Ultra β Access to the folder may be limited β you will need a file manager with root rights.
β οΈ Note: On some models (Redmi Note 12 Pro)+, POCO F5) The record is automatically deleted after 30 days, unless the files are transferred to another storage facility.
2. How to enable call recording on European firmware (EEA)
Smartphones with global firmware for Europe (EEA) The recording function is often disabled due to legal restrictions, but it can be activated through hidden settings or ADB-Let's look at both methods.
Method 1: Through the Engineering Menu (without root)
This method works on MIUI 14/15 for Xiaomi 12/13 series, Redmi Note 11/12 models:
- Open the phone app.
- Enter the code ##6484## (MTK Engineer Mode menu opens).
- Go to Hardware Testing β Audio β Normal Mode β Type β Mic.
- Activate the Voice Call Record option (if you have one).
Method 2: ADB (PC required)
If the engineering menu doesnβt work, use ADB:
adb shell settings put global force_call_recorder_enabled 1
adb shell settings put global call_recorder_notification_type 0Once you have completed the commands, restart your phone. The Phone app will have a recording button. Please note that on some firmware (MIUI 15 for POCO X5 Pro), this method only works after resetting the network settings.
Third-party applications for recording: TOP-3 verified versions
If the built-in methods don't work, use third-party apps. It's important to choose those that bypass the limitations of Android 13/14 and MIUI. We tested 10 programs, the best ones:
| Annex | Support for MIUI | Recording format | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cube ACR | β Yes, including EEA) | MP3, AMR | It works through accessibility, records both ends of the conversation, and on MIUI 15, it requires you to turn off the battery optimization. |
| Call Recorder by Lovekesh | β Yes (except China) ROM) | MP3, WAV | Automatic recording of all calls, cloud storage. On the Redmi Note 12, it can conflict with the system application "Phone". |
| Truecaller | β οΈ Partially (depending on the region) | MP3 | Built-in recording is for premium users only. On the POCO F4 GT runs stable, but notifies the interlocutor. |
How to set up Cube ACR (recommended for MIUI):
Install the app from Google Play|Open Settings β Special Options β Cube ACR (enable)|In the app settings, select Record All Calls |Opt out Battery Optimization for Cube ACR in MIUI settings|Reboot your phone--->
Important: On Android 13/14 Applications for recording require permission RECORD_AUDIO If the recording doesn't start, check to see if it's blocked. MIUI Optimization (in the developer settings).
β οΈ Note: Apps like Boldbeast or ACR Xiaomi may not work with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processors (such as Xiaomi 13 Pro) due to core-level chipset limitations.
4.Where call records are stored and how to export them
The files of conversation records on Xiaomi can be in different folders depending on the method of recording:
- π Built-in recording MIUI: /sdcard/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/ or /sdcard/Recordings/Call/.
- π Cube ACR: /sdcard/CubeBackups/ (format YYYYMMDD_HHMMSS_number.mp3).
- π Truecaller: /sdcard/Truecaller/Recordings/ (Only for premium users).
To transfer the recordings to PC:
- Connect your phone to your computer via USB (File Transfer Mode).
- Open the folder with the records (see the paths above).
- Copy files on a PC. For convenience, rename them (for example, adding the name of the interlocutor).
If the folder is not visible:
- π Use a file manager with root rights (for example, FX Explorer or Solid Explorer).
- π§ Enable the display of hidden files in the manager settings.
- π± On some models (Xiaomi) 12S Ultra) records are stored in a protected partition β you will need backup through ADB: adb pull /data/user_de/0/com.android.server.telecom/call_recordings/
π‘
If the entries are not played on PC, convert them from.amr to.mp3 using the Audacity program or online converter.
5.Why calls aren't recorded: 7 reasons and solutions
If the recording does not start or the files are not saved, check the following points:
- Firmware limitations: On EEA-version MIUI The solution is a change of firmware region or use ADB.
- Insufficient memory: Records are not saved if the device has less than 100 MB of free space. Clear the cache or transfer files to the memory card.
- Application conflict: If multiple recording programs are installed (e.g. Cube ACR + Truecaller), they can block each other.
- Operator restrictions: Some mobile operators (for example, Tele2 in Russia) block recording at the network level, the solution is the use of VoIP calls (WhatsApp, Telegram).
- Privacy settings: MIUI 15 has added the option to βDisable Call Recordingβ in the security settings. Check Settings β Privacy β Application Permissions β Phone.
- If you are recording but you canβt hear your voice, clean the microphone connector or check it in Diagnostics (#64663##).
- MIUI Update: After the firmware update, the settings for the recordings may reset. Reactivate the function via ADB or engineering menu.
On Android 14 (Xiaomi 14, Redmi K60 Pro) models, recording may not work due to Googleβs new restrictions on accessing the microphone during calls, in which case only changing the firmware to the Chinese or Indian version will help.
How to check if the operator is blocking the recording?
6.Recovering deleted call records
If you accidentally delete a recording of a conversation, you can try to restore it, and success depends on how long it has been since you deleted it and whether the phone has used cleaning features (e.g., Storage Optimization in MIUI).
Method 1: Through the basket (if included)
MIUI 14/15 has a built-in file basket:
- Open the Files app.
- Go to the "Baskbasket" section.
- Find deleted entries (usually with the.amr or.mp3) extension.
- Select the files and click "Restore".
Method 2: Recovery programs
If the cart is empty, use the utilities:
- π₯οΈ DiskDigger (Android): scans internal memory for deleted audio files. Works without root, but with superuser rights finds more data.
- π» Recuva (Windows): Connect your phone in mode MTP and scan the memory card.
- π± Undeleter: specializes in media file recovery, supports.amr and media file formats.mp3.
Important: Do not install recovery programs on the same partition of memory where the records were stored, this reduces the chances of success, and avoid writing new files to the device until recovery.
β οΈ Note: On Encrypted Devices (Xiaomi) 13T Pro, POCO F5 Pro) Recovery of deleted files is almost impossible without a backup.
7 Legal aspects: can calls be recorded without consent
Telephone recording is regulated by the laws of your country, and in most cases, one-way recording (without notifying the interlocutor) is allowed if you are a participant in the conversation, but there are nuances:
- π·πΊ Russia: It is allowed to record calls without consent if the information is used for personal purposes (Article 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation.
- πͺπΊ European Union (GDPR): Recording without consent is prohibited unless "legitimate necessity" is proven (e.g. evidence in court) - a violation that could be fined up to 20m euros.
- πΊπΈ U.S.: Laws vary by state, California requires consent of all participants, Texas only one.
- π¨π³ China: Recording allowed, but operators can block feature to comply with local regulations.
On Xiaomi smartphones with EEA firmware (Europe), the default record is disabled precisely because of GDPR. If you activate it through ADB, be aware of the possible legal consequences.
To avoid problems:
- π€ Always notify the person about the recording (most applications have the option of automatic notification).
- π Keep the records no longer than necessary.
- π« Do not distribute records without the consent of participants.
π‘
In 2026, Xiaomi began adding a recording warning to the firmware for interlocutors on all regional versions except the Chinese one, due to the tightening of the requirements of Google Play Policy.