Secret recording of conversations on Xiaomi: how to turn on the recorder during a call without notifications

Have you ever wanted to save an important phone conversation but didn't know how to do it on a Xiaomi smartphone? Unlike iPhones, where call recording is locked at iOS level, Android devices theoretically allow audio recording during a conversation. However, manufacturers often limit this feature due to legal nuances and privacy policies. On Redmi, POCO and other Xiaomi models with MIUI 14/15 firmware, the standard voice recorder shuts down when a call starts - but there are workarounds.

In this article, we’ll break down 4 working ways to record conversations on Xiaomi, including hidden system settings, third-party apps, and even methods for root-access devices. You’ll learn how to circumvent Google Play restrictions (where many voice recorders are blocked), which models support built-in recording without notifications, and how to legally use recorded files. Importantly, in some countries, recording conversations without consent may violate the law – we’ll tell you how to stay in the legal field.

Why Xiaomi is blocking call recording via a standard voice recorder

Starting with Android 9 (and especially strictly in MIUI 12+), Xiaomi software disables the ability to record voice calls through the built-in Dictaphone app.

  • πŸ“œ Legal risks: In the EU, the US and some other regions, recording conversations without the consent of the other party may be considered a violation of the right to privacy (for example, the right to privacy, GDPR Europe).
  • πŸ”’ Google’s policy: Google Play bans apps from use since 2019 API The recording of calls without explicit notice to the interlocutor, many of the tape recorders were removed from the store.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Security MIUI: Xiaomi firmware blocks access to audio stream during a call for third-party applications without special permissions.
  • πŸ“± Hardware limitations: On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5) The microphone is disabled for all applications except system com.android.phone.

Fun fact: on Xiaomi devices for the Chinese market (with China ROM firmware), call recording often works out of the box - but these versions of the software are not officially supported in Russia and Europe, and some mobile operators (for example, MTS or Beeline) can block recording at the network level.

⚠️ In Russia, according to Art. 23 of the Constitution and Art. 138 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, recording telephone conversations without the consent of the interlocutor is allowed only if you are a participant in the conversation and the recording is conducted for personal use (without distribution). Notarial certification may be required for legal use of the record.

Method 1: Built-in call recording on supported Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi smartphones have a hidden conversation recording feature that is activated via an engineering menu or special codes.This method works on devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors (for example, Xiaomi 13, Redmi K50, POCO F4) and requires the following steps:

Open the Phone app and go to Settings β†’ Call Record (if no item, go to step 2)

Enter the code ##6484## in the dial number (to check for support)

If the code didn't work, try ##646## β†’ Choose Audio β†’ Call Recording

Restart the device and check for the recording option in the call interface-->

After activation during the conversation, a write button will appear (usually next to the hands-free and hold-up keys). MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec Important: This method does not work on devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi). 10C or POCO M5), They have a different audio processing architecture.

Xiaomi modelSupport for hidden recordingRequired codeNotes
Xiaomi 13/13 Proβœ… Yes.##6484##It is operated by MIUI 14 Global.
Redmi K50 Proβœ… Yes.##646##You need to choose Audio β†’ Call Recording β†’ Enable
POCO F4 GTβœ… Yes.##4636##After entering, go to Audio Info β†’ Call Rec
Redmi Note 11 Pro+❌ No.β€”MediaTek Helio G96 processor
Xiaomi 12T Proβœ… Yes.##6484##Reboot required

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If the codes don't work, try dialing them in the Phone app instead of using the engineering menu. On some firmware (e.g. MIUI EU), functionality can be purposefully disabled.

Method 2: Using third-party applications (without root)

If the built-in recording is not available, you can use third-party apps, but due to the limitations of Google Play, many voice recorders have been removed, and we tested the current solutions that work on Xiaomi in 2026:

  • πŸ“± Cube Call Recorder ACR (Most reliable solution: download only from the official website (Google Play is outdated version), supports recording VoIP calls (WhatsApp, Telegram), there is a feature to automatically delete old records.
  • πŸ”Š Boldbeast Call Recorder (for complicated cases): Works on Android devices 10-14. Requires manual audio source tuning (select Mode) 1 or 8 The paid version removes watermarks.
  • 🎀 Call Recorder by Lovekesh (Simple UI): Free version is limited to 50 records, supports cloud backup on Google Drive. Doesn't work on some models with a free version. MIUI 15.

An important nuance: for the correct operation of these applications, it is necessary:

  1. Disable battery optimization for voice recorder in Settings β†’ Apps β†’ Permissions β†’ Autostart.
  2. Permission to access the Microphone and the Warehouse.
  3. In some cases, you will need to turn on the Developer Mode and activate the option Do not turn off the screen during charging (so that the recording is not interrupted).

⚠️ Attention: Cube-type applications ACR may be in conflict with the application protection function in MIUI. If the recording is terminated, add the recorder to the exceptions: Settings β†’ Confidentiality β†’ Special permits β†’ Application protection.

Cube Call Recorder ACR|Boldbeast|Call Recorder by Lovekesh|The built-in function of Xiaomi|Other/Not used-->

Method 3: Recording via a second phone or external device

If the software methods do not work (for example, on the Redmi A2 or POCO C50 with a weak processor), you can use hardware solutions:

  1. Second smartphone in voice recorder mode: Put the second phone next to the main speaker and turn on the recording via a standard voice recorder. Minus: low sound quality and possible interference. Use a directional microphone (for example, BOYA BY-M1) to improve the result.
  2. Bluetooth headset with recording function: Some headsets (such as Sony WH-1000XM5 or JBL Live 660NC) have a built-in voice recorder. Connect them to Xiaomi and activate recording through the manufacturer's app.
  3. External voice recorder: Professional devices like the Olympus WS-853 or Sony ICD-UX570 connect via 3.5mm audio input (if your model has one) or Bluetooth.

To synchronize recording time with real conversation, use apps like AudioSync (available on Google Play), which adds time stamps to the audio file, which is useful for protocols or litigation.

How to improve recording quality with a second phone
1. Use a room without echo (carpets, curtains will absorb reverberation). 2. Place the second phone 15-20 cm from the speaker of the main device. 3. Enable Monopod mode in the voice recorder settings to reduce noise. 4. After recording, process the file in Audacity (noise suppression filter).

Method 4: Recording root access calls (for advanced)

If your Xiaomi device has an unlocked bootloader and root rights, you can activate the call record at the system level, which is suitable for models like the Xiaomi 11T Pro or Redmi K40, where the standard methods do not work.

  1. Install Magisk and the Call Recorder for MIUI module (available in the Magisk Modules repository).
  2. Edit /system/build.prop file by adding the line: ro.call.recording.enabled=true
  3. Install the Xposed Framework app with CallRecEnabler (for older versions of Android).

After rebooting, a write button will appear in the interface of the standard Phone application. Files will be saved to /sdcard/CallRecordings/ in.mp3 format with date and subscriber number tags.

⚠️ Attention: Using root rights voids Xiaomi's warranty and could lead to system instability.On Android 13 devices+ and MIUI 15 Some Magisk modules may not work due to enhanced protection AVB 2.0.

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Root access allows you to bypass all the software limitations of Xiaomi, but requires technical skills. For most users, 1-3 is enough.

How to Legally Use Recorded Conversations

Even if you managed to record a conversation, it can have legal consequences, and here are the key rules for Russia and the CIS countries:

  • πŸ“œ Personal Use: Recording a conversation you participate in is permitted for personal purposes (e.g., recording arrangements with colleagues or relatives).
  • βš–οΈ Court proceedings: Notarization is required to file an entry in court, otherwise it may be considered inadmissible evidence.
  • 🚫 Prohibited activities: Posting a post on social networks or messengers without the consent of the interlocutor; using the record for blackmail or extortion; recording conversations of third parties (for example, through a public speakerphone in a public place).

In some countries (e.g. Germany or France), recording conversations without the consent of both participants is strictly prohibited and punishable by fines of up to €10,000.

If you need to officially record a conversation (for example, with a bank or support service), use services such as Skype Calls with the recording function enabled (legally, since the interlocutor receives a notification).

Frequent problems and their solutions

When you record your calls on Xiaomi, you're going to see some common mistakes, and we've put together solutions for the most common cases.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Recording ends in 1-2 minutes.Battery optimization kills the recorder processAdd the app to exceptions: Settings β†’ Battery β†’ Battery Optimization β†’ All apps β†’ Select a voice recorder β†’ No restrictions
No sound in the recording (silence)Incorrectly selected source of audioIn the voice recorder settings, select Microphone + speaker or VoIP (for instant messengers)
App doesn't see callsNo permission to access the journalGive permission in Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Recorder β†’ Permissions β†’ Call log
Recording goes on, but not savedLack of space on the device or lock MIUIClear the memory or save the files to SD-Check the settings. β†’ Warehouse β†’ Folder of the record
Interlocutor hears an echoConflict with noise reduction functionTurn off Voice Improvement in Call Settings or use a wired headset

If none of the methods worked, check if your carrier is blocking the recording, Tele2 Yota: Limit the recording functionality at the level SIM-In this case, only a change of operator or the use of VoIP (calls over the Internet) will help).

Can I record calls to Xiaomi without notifying the other person?
Technically, yes, but the legality varies by country: In Russia, the recording of a conversation you participate in is allowed for personal use without notice. However, the consent of the second participant is required to publicly distribute the record (for example, in court). On Xiaomi with MIUI Global firmware, the recording notice is not sent automatically, unlike some Samsung or Google Pixel.
Why did the MIUI update stop recording calls?
Xiaomi has probably closed the vulnerability your app used to record. MIUI 14β†’15 tightened restrictions on access to audio stream during a call. Try: Update the voice recorder app to the latest version. Reset network settings to Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Reset settings. Install an older firmware version (downgrade) via Fastboot.
Where are the phone records for Xiaomi stored?
Depending on the recording method, files may be in different folders: Built-in entry MIUI: /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/ Cube ACR: /storage/emulated/0/CubeBackup/CallRecordings/ Boldbeast: /storage/emulated/0/Boldbeast/ Root recorders: /sdcard/CallRecordings/ or /data/media/0/CallRecordings/ To quickly find files, use the Files by Google app with a call keyword search.
Can I record WhatsApp/Telegram calls on Xiaomi?
Yes, but it requires special applications like Cube ACR or Boldbeast with VoIP Record enabled. Standard voice recorders don't see the audio stream of messengers. Important nuances: WhatsApp only works if the interlocutor does not use E2E encryption (which is unlikely). Telegram recording is only possible for voice messages, but not for calls (due to the MTProto protocol). Viber will need to disable the Viber Out option in the account settings.
How to recover a accidentally deleted call record?
If the file was recently deleted (within 30 days), try: Check the Recycle Bin folder in the Files app (Xiaomi stores deleted files for 7 days). Use recovery programs like DiskDigger or Recuva (requires root for deep scanning). If the record synced with Google Drive, check the Recycle Bin partition in the web version of the service. For future cases, set up automatic backup of records to the cloud (for example, via Cube ACR + Google Drive).