Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones that have upgraded to the latest versions of the MIUI 13, 14 or new HyperOS shell often face an unpleasant surprise: the manufacturer replaced the usual and functional dialing interface with a simplified version from Google, a decision dictated by Google’s requirements for certification of devices in global markets, but for users from CIS countries this was a serious inconvenience.
Many people are used to the convenient recording of conversations built into the system and integration with operator services that were not available in the stock application. The natural question is: can you return the native interface of the call without resorting to complex manipulations with flashing the device to the Chinese version? Fortunately, the answer is yes, and there are several proven ways to solve this problem without losing the warranty and rights to use banking applications.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the current methods of restoration of functionality that work on most modern models. ADB-commands for advanced users and installation of modified versions of applications. It is important to understand that each method has its own nuances, depending on the specific model of your smartphone and the version of the operating system.
Why your family phone is missing and what’s the difference?
The main reason for the app’s replacement was Google Mobile Services (GMS) policy.To obtain a license to use Google services in Europe and other regions, manufacturers are required to use standard Android apps, including Google Phone and Google Contacts.This provides a single ecosystem, but deprives users of the unique features that Xiaomi has been implementing in its devices for years.
The main difference is that when you start a Google call, you hear a loud warning that says, "Talk recording has started." In your native MIUI Dialer call, you record automatically, secretly, and without audible notifications, which is critical for many users. In addition, MIUI often offers more flexible settings for displaying contacts and blocking spam.
It's worth noting that some global firmware versions have closed the ability to install native calls through simple methods, but community engineers and users find workarounds. The key is the Android version and the specific MIUI build, as the most recent security updates can block old methods of installing system applications.
Preparation of the device before installation
Before you start any manipulation of system components, you need to make sure that your device is ready for changes. Even if you do not plan to get Root rights, some security settings may prevent the installation of modified ones. APK-First of all, back up all your important contacts by syncing them to your Google Account or Mi Cloud.
You will need to download the current version of the MIUI Dialer and MIUI Contacts installation file. It is important to take files from trusted sources, such as the 4PDA forum or the APKMirror repository, paying attention to the compliance of the Android version. Using outdated versions can lead to unstable phone operation or cyclical reboot.
It is also recommended that you disable automatic updates to the Google Play Market for phone components if the system has already updated them, which will prevent the system from forcibly upgrading it back to stock after successfully installing the old version. Go to the store settings, select the profile and the application management point.
☑️ Checklist of preparations
Method of installation through settings and APK-file
The easiest and most affordable way to do this, which doesn’t require a computer connection, is to manually install applications. To do this, you need to allow the installation of applications from unknown sources. Go to Settings → Application Protection → Install unknown applications and select your browser or file manager.
After downloading MIUI Dialer.apk and MIUI Contacts.apk files, start the installation. The system can warn you several times about the potential danger as you replace the system application. You need to confirm the actions. In some cases, especially on HyperOS, the system may require a password from the Mi Account or disable the installation, citing a security policy.
If the installation is successful, don't rush to open the application. First, assign it to default. Go to Settings → Apps → All Apps → Three Dots at the Top → Default Apps → Dialer. Select the MIUI Dialer you just installed. If this option is not available, the system can force the return of Google Dialer on the next run.
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If the system blocks the installation, try to turn off the Internet before doing so, which will prevent instant checks of the application version through Google Play Protect.
Use of ADB to replace system component
If the standard installation doesn’t work, Android Debug Bridge (ADB) comes to the rescue, allowing you to give commands to the system directly from your computer, you will need to install Xiaomi and Platform Tools drivers on your PC, and enable USB debugging on your smartphone in the Developer Menu.
Connect the phone to your computer and open the command line. The first step is to delete or freeze the current Google call. Type in the command: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.dialer. This command does not remove the application physically, but hides it for the current user, which allows him to take his place.
Then set the downloaded APK-ringer MIUI through ADB Team: Adb install -r -t miui_dialer.apk. Flags. -r and -t allow installation over an existing (or remote for the user) and ignore the signature time check. After the reboot, the system must pick up a new dialing interface.
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.contacts
adb install -r -t miui_contacts.apk
adb install -r -t miui_dialer.apkIt's important to understand that once you clear the data cache or reset the phone, the changes can be rolled back by the system, and then you have to repeat the ADB procedure, which is the most reliable method for global firmware versions where direct file replacement is prohibited.
Solving problems with recording conversations
Even after a successful MIUI Dialer installation, the recording function may not work immediately or not work correctly. Often the problem lies in the permissions. Go to Settings → Apps → All Apps → Phone → Permissions. Make sure the application is allowed access to the microphone, contacts, phone and, critically, device memory.
In some regions, recording conversations is legally limited, so the call itself may not have "Call Record" settings. To activate it, you sometimes need to change the region in your phone settings. Go to Settings → Additional Settings → Region and select Indonesia, Vietnam or India. Once you change region, the record point should appear.
What if the recording does not work after the change of region?
Comparison of features: Google Dialer vs MIUI Dialer
Understanding the differences will help you decide whether it’s worth taking the time to return the old version or make it easier to get used to the new one. Below is a table comparing the key characteristics of both apps in the context of use on Xiaomi devices.
| Function | Google Dialer | MIUI Dialer |
|---|---|---|
| Recording of conversations | Loud notification of the interlocutor | Quiet recording without notice |
| Interface. | Minimalist, Material You | Extended, customizable |
| Blocking spam | Through Google's database. | Using antivirus databases + Google |
| Integration | Deep with Google Services | Deep with a shell MIUI |
It’s worth noting that Google Dialer gets security updates and new features (like real-time spam number detection) much faster, but MIUI Dialer wins out in convenience for users who need “invisible” recording, depending on your priorities: security and standards or functionality and familiar comfort.
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Installing MIUI Dialer via ADB is the only guaranteed way to get silent recording on global firmware with a locked bootloader.
Possible errors and ways to eliminate them
Unforeseen situations can occur when replacing system components, and one of the common problems is that the app crashes when it comes to an incoming call, which means that the APK version is not compatible with your Android version, so you need to find a more recent or older app build that matches the release date of your firmware.
Another common mistake is the lack of sound in the speaker after the call, which is treated by resetting the audio settings or completely removing the updates to the Phone app through the app menu, followed by re-installation, and also check whether Do Not Disturb or On the Plane mode is on at the time of the call.
⚠️ Attention: When using methods with ADB You act at your own risk. Incorrect removal of system components can lead to the inability to make calls. Always have an alternative method of communication (messengers) at hand in case of failure.
If after all the manipulations the phone started to behave unstable, the best solution is to return to the factory settings, which will remove all the changes and return the stock call from Google, ensuring the stability of the device.
Can I get a Root license to install a call?
Will the MIUI call be automatically updated?
Does this method work on HyperOS?
The recording button is missing, what should I do?
⚠️ Note: Using modified versions of applications from unknown developers may carry risks of data leakage. Recorded conversations may become available to third parties. Use only verified sources such as a forum 4PDA or the official repository of Xiaomi.