How to replace the standard call on Xiaomi smartphones: 5 proven ways

A standard Xiaomi call based on MIUI or HyperOS often causes users to dissatisfaction: limited functionality, an inconvenient interface or lack of customization. Fortunately, the manufacturer does not block the ability to install third-party applications for calls - the main thing is to know how to correctly perform the replacement so as not to lose basic functions (for example, determining a number or recording conversations).

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods for replacing a call with Xiaomi, including bypassing system limitations, choosing the best alternatives (with a comparative table), as well as solving typical problems - from resetting to conflicts with Google Phone. The instructions are valid for all models (from Redmi Note 12 to Xiaomi 14 Ultra) and software versions, including HyperOS 1.0+.

Why users want to replace the standard call with Xiaomi

The reasons for replacing the standard com.android.dialer app (as the system denotes a Xiaomi call) usually boil down to three key points:

• 🔍 Absence of AON – built-in number definition works curved, especially for Russian operators (MTS, Beeline, Tele2).
• 🎨 Boring design — MIUI/HyperOS offers minimal customization: you can’t change the color scheme, fonts or button layout.
• 📱 There is no integration with instant messengers – unlike Google Phone or Truecaller, a standard call does not show a history of correspondence from WhatsApp/Telegram next to the contact.
• 🔕 Talk recording problems – on some models (e.g. Poco X5), the recording function is malfunctioning or not at all.

In addition, many users complain about delays in dialing and incorrect work with Bluetooth headsets (for example, Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro).

Can I completely remove a standard call on Xiaomi?

On Xiaomi smartphones, it is impossible to completely remove the Phone system application without root rights, since it is tied to telephony services at the Android level.

• 📱 Disable – you can deactivate the application through settings, but this will result in loss of call functionality (recommended for testing only).
• 🔧 The default replacement is to assign a third-party primary call, leaving the system "on reserve."
• 🛠️ ADB- Commands – Hide the system call from the user (without deleting files).

If you do try to delete the APK- file manually (e.g., via TWRP), this may result in:

• Loss of the ability to make/receive calls.
• Errors in the work of SIM-cards (especially on two-sim models).
• Failures in the work of com.android.phone (system process of telephony).

⚠️ Warning: On HyperOS devices, an attempt to remove the system APK can activate the Xiaomi Anti-Rollback protection mechanism, which will lead to a bootloader lock, and the only way to restore the smartphone's performance is through the Mi Flash Tool with full flashing.

Top-5 Alternative Calls for Xiaomi: Comparison of Features

Before installing a third-party call, evaluate its compatibility with your Xiaomi model. Some applications (such as Google Phone) may not support dual SIM- cards or VoLTE/VoWiFi on Chinese firmware.

For most Xiaomi users, Truecaller (if you need AON) or Google Phone (if you need stability and integration with the Google ecosystem) are the best choice.

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Before installing an alternative call, check its Google Play ranking for your Xiaomi model. For example, on the Poco F5, some applications may not display the second SIM- card correctly.

Step-by-step: how to replace a call on Xiaomi without root

The safest way is to assign a third-party call to the default app without removing the system one, which works on all versions of MIUI 12-14 and HyperOS.

Install an alternative app from Google Play|

Backup your contacts (via Mi Cloud or Google) |

Check the permissions for a new call (calls, contacts, microphone) |

Turn off battery optimization for the caller app

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Step 1: Install an alternative call

Download the selected application from Google Play (e.g. Truecaller).

1. Open the app and provide all the permissions you request (especially Calls, Contacts, and Record Microphone).
2. Sign in to your account (if required, for example, to sync to Truecaller).
3. Run a test call to make sure it works.

Step 2: Assigning a Default Call

Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management and:

1. Find the installed call (such as Truecaller) and tap it.
2. Select by default → Application for calls.
3. In the list, mark your call (if the system is still active, click Clear the default settings for it).

Step 3: Disabling the system call (optional)

To hide the standard call from the menu:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Phone.
2. Click Disable (Do not delete!).
3. Now, the icon will disappear, but the system processes will remain active.

⚠️ Warning: On some models (e.g., Xiaomi 13T with HyperOS), disabling the system call may cause a malfunction of SMS. If messages stop coming after the shutdown, return the settings back.

How to Hide Xiaomi System Calls via ADB (For Advanced)

If you want to completely remove the icon of a standard call, but can not disable it through the settings (for example, on Xiaomi with HyperOS), use ADB- commands. This method does not require root, but requires a connection to a PC.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB Fastboot (you can download from the official Android website).
• 📱 Included debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times to tap according to the version → return to → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).

Instructions:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm the debugging permission.
2. Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the adb folder.
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices must appear serial number of your device.
4. Run the command to hide the system call: adb shell pm hide com.android.dialer
5. Reboot your smartphone. The call icon will disappear, but the functionality will remain (in case of a reset).

To return the call back, use the command:

adb shell pm unhide com.android.dialer

⚠️ Warning: Some firmware (e.g., MIUI Global Stable) may miss the quick action in the notification curtain (e.g., Phone button) after the pm hide command. To return them, restart the device in Safe Mode (press the power button → "Reboot Safe Mode").

Solving problems after replacing the call

Even after installing the alternative call correctly, there may be failures, and let's look at the typical errors and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Incoming calls are not working

If after the replacement of the call, the smartphone does not not notify about incoming calls:

• Check if the application is assigned to the default call (see Step 2 in the previous section).
• Make sure the app has permission for Calls and Notifications.
• Turn off Do Not Disturb or add a call to exceptions.
• Reset the device.

Problem 2: No number is determined (AHN does not work)

If an alternative call (such as Google Phone) does not show the names of the subscribers:

• Sync your contacts with your Google Account (Settings → Accounts → Google → Contact Sync).
• In the call settings, turn on the option to Show contacts from... and select all available sources.
• For Truecaller: Update the number database manually (in the app settings).

Problem 3: The recording of conversations is not working

If the recording function is missing or only records your voice:

• Check the laws of your region – in some countries, recording conversations without notifying the interlocutor is prohibited (the application can block the function automatically).
• Install a separate recording app, such as Cube Call Recorder ACR (root required for full functionality).
• On Xiaomi with HyperOS, recording may not work due to MIUI limitations. Try enabling the option for developers → Disable microphone check.

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If you have lost SMS after replacing your calls, return the default Messages system application. Many alternative calls do not support SMS processing, especially on dual-symbol devices.

How to Get Back a Standard Xiaomi Caller

If the alternative bell experiment failed, it is easy to get it back:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Find the system call (Phone) and tap it.
3. Click Enable (if it has been disabled).
4. In the Default section, select Clear Default Settings for an alternative call.
5. The next time you call, the system will suggest you select an application - specify the Phone and mark Always.

If you have been hiding a call through ADB, follow the command:

adb shell pm unhide com.android.dialer

After that, the icon will return to the menu, and all system functions will be restored.

FAQ: Frequent questions about changing your phone to Xiaomi