How to write your answering machine to Android Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions

Modern smartphones from Xiaomi offer users a wide range of features for comfortable communication, but the setting of a standard answering machine is often questionable. Unlike some other manufacturers, where this option is sewn into the basic application “Phone” by default, in the shell of MIUI or HyperOS approach can vary significantly depending on the region of the firmware and device model. Many owners face a situation where the standard voice assent is simply absent, and have to look for workarounds to implement the function of automatic response to incoming calls.

First of all, it’s important to understand that Android autoresponders aren’t always the same feature. There are two main types: voice greetings for incoming (when you can’t pick up the phone) and automatic response by text or voice when an outgoing call. On Xiaomi smartphones, the implementation of the first option often depends on the carrier, while the second option can be configured by the system itself or third-party applications. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at all the methods available so you can choose the most suitable for your use case.

It's worth noting that the menu interface may vary slightly across different versions of the Android operating system. However, the logic of the system components remains similar. If you're looking for a way to record your unique greeting so that the callers hear your voice, rather than the standard robot, you'll need to do a number of specific actions, which we'll describe below. Let's look at the basic tools available in the Xiaomi user arsenal.

Use of built-in functions of the Phone application

The first and most obvious place to look for autoresponse settings is Google’s standard Phone app or MIUI Dialer, which is pre-installed on your device. Most current Xiaomi models on the global version use a stock number dialer that has limited but autoresponse functionality. To check for this option, you need to open the app and go to the settings menu, which is usually hidden behind three dots in the upper right corner of the screen.

In the menu that opens, you should look for a section that can be called Auto Answer or Quick Answer, and here you can find a feature that allows the smartphone to automatically drop a call and send a pre-prepared call. SMS-Caller: It's not really a voice answering machine, but it's an effective way to tell your partner about your busy life without having to talk. If you want to use voice recording, this section might contain the "Hello" option, which is only available when you have an active operator service.

⚠️ Note: On some global firmware MIUI The voice auto-response feature in a standard app may be blocked or not available due to Google’s regional restrictions.

If you find Auto-response in the Phone app settings menu, turn it on. The system will prompt you to select a delay before responding (for example, 3 or 5 seconds) and possibly record a voice message. However, as practice shows, text auto-response is more common on Xiaomi. Full voice recording often requires activation of the service from the operator or the use of third-party software, which we will talk about in the next sections.

📊 What type of answering machine do you have?
Only SMS
Voice from operator
Third-party annex
Not using.

Configure through Google services and telecom operators

Since Android is developed by Google, many of its telephony features are tied to its services, including the Google Phone app, which is often the standard for Xiaomi smartphones outside of China. In some regions, Call Assistant or Screen Call allows for automation, but a full-fledged classic autoresponder (when the phone picks up the phone itself and plays the recording) is most often provided by the carrier.

Services such as "Autoresponder" or "Voice mail" are paid or conditionally free services of cellular operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2 The settings are not done on the phone, but through the phone. USSD-When you connect a service, you can write a greeting, and you can control it through the phone menu, and you can usually listen to messages by pressing the number 1 in the phone app or dialing a special short number.

To activate and adjust the greeting through the operator, follow the following steps:

  • 📞 Call your operator’s support team or use it. USSD-team to connect the service "Voice mail».
  • 🎙️ Follow the instructions of the autoinformer to record your own greeting.
  • ⚙️ In your phone settings, make sure that the forwarding to the voicemail number is active (usually a number that starts on the phone). +7...).
  • 📱 Check the work by calling yourself from another number in either "busy" or "unavailable" mode».

It is important to distinguish between the operator’s answering machine and the smartphone’s functions. If the operator’s service is not connected and the phone’s menu does not have a write option, then Xiaomi does not provide a native voice response solution in your version of the software, in which case the only way out is to use third-party apps from the Google Play store that can emulate this feature.

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Use redirect commands to check the status of the service: ##002# disables all redirects, and *#61# shows the number to which the call is going when you are busy.

Use of third-party applications for autoresponse

When built-in tools are scarce, specialized applications from the Google Play store come to the rescue. There are many programs, such as Auto Answer & Call, Automatic Answer, or Truecaller, that take over incoming calls, and these applications require broad permissions, because they must intercept the call and play the audio file instead of the user.

Once installed, you will need to give it permission to access the microphone, contacts and, most importantly, the right to “respond to calls.” In modern versions of Android (10, 11, 12 and above), this requires additional steps in the “Accessibility” section.

The process of setting up a third-party answering machine is as follows:

  • 📥 Download a reliable, high-rated app, such as Auto Answer Call - Auto Pickup».
  • 🔓 Include the necessary permissions in the “Special features” section of the Android system.
  • 🎤 Download or record an audio file with your greeting inside the app.
  • ⏱️ Set your response delay timer and conditions (respond to all calls or only from selected contacts).

⚠️ Warning: Third-party answering machines can drain the battery faster than usual, as they constantly monitor the status of incoming calls in the background.

Some apps allow you to create complex scenarios, for example, you can set different greetings for different contacts or at different times of the day, which gives you flexibility that standard solutions don't have. But remember security: by giving an app access to calls, you trust it with sensitive information. Only choose proven programs with lots of positive feedback.

Why can't the app answer the call?
In newer versions of Android, Google has restricted direct access to the call APIs for third-party applications for security purposes, so apps use Accessibility Services to emulate the click on the "Respond" button on the screen, which requires manual permission settings.

Function "Autoresponse" in driving modes and headset

In the Android operating system and the MIUI shell, there is a useful automatic response feature that is activated in external conditions, for example, when you connect a Bluetooth headset or turn on the “Driving” mode. This is not a full-fledged autoresponder with a record, but a feature that allows you to automatically receive calls so as not to be distracted from the road.

To activate this feature, go to Settings → Special Options → Driver Mode (the path may vary depending on the version of MIUI). Here you can turn on the option “Auto Calls”; In some cases, the system allows you to choose how many seconds an automatic response should occur, which is useful if you use speakerphone and want the phone to answer itself when you are busy driving.

Also worth paying attention to Bluetooth device settings. Some Mi Watch smartwatches or Mi True Wireless headphones have their own settings that may conflict with or supplement the phone's settings. Check whether auto-response is enabled in the Mi Wear or Mi Fitness app if you're using the Xiaomi ecosystem entirely.

☑️ Auto-response setting for the driver

Done: 0 / 4

It's important to understand the difference between this feature and a classic answering machine. In "Driving" mode, the phone just picks up the phone and you hear the caller and he hears you (unless the speaker is on), the voice message is not played here unless it is provided by a special "Assistant" function, which is not available in all regions.

Automation through scripts and macros

For advanced users, Xiaomi opens up the possibility of using automation applications such as Tasker, MacroDroid

Using MacroDroid allows you to create a macro with an Inbound Call trigger, and you can choose Send SMS or Answer Call (although the latter may require root rights or special plugins) as an action, a flexible tool that allows you to bypass the limitations of the standard system.

Example of macro logic for automation:

  • 🔹 Trigger: Incoming call arrival.
  • 🔹 Condition: Current time between 23:00 and 07:00.
  • 🔹 Action: Send SMS «I'm asleep, I'll call you back in the morning».
  • 🔹 Action: Ending the challenge.

This takes time to set up, but it gives you complete control over your smartphone behavior, and you can combine conditions like location (geosons), battery levels, running apps, and it turns your Xiaomi into a smart assistant that responds to the context of the situation.

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Automation applications allow you to create complex response scenarios that are not available in standard settings, but take time for the initial configuration.

Comparison of methods and problem solving

To make it easier for you to choose the right method, we have prepared a comparative table of methods for implementing autoresponse on Xiaomi devices. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, which depend on your specific needs and phone model.

MethodDifficulty setting upAvailability of a voice greetingDependence on operator
Operator's servicesLow.Yeah (full-fledged)High (paid)
Third-party annexesMediumYes (via microphone/file)No.
The Driver modeLow.No (only auto-climb)No.
Automation (Tasker)Tall.Limitedly.No.

Often users encounter a problem when the configured answering machine is not working. First of all, check whether the MIUI system blocks the application from working in the background. Go to Settings → Applications → All applications, find your autoresponse application and select No restrictions under “Saving Charge”. Also, make sure that the application is given all the necessary permissions.

Another common problem is application conflict, and if you have multiple call programs installed or recorded conversations, they can interfere with each other. Try disabling unnecessary apps and testing the answering machine in its pure form. Also remember that some global MIUI firmware may have reduced call functions compared to the Chinese version.

⚠️ Warning: When using third-party answering machines, make sure that the phone speaker is not covered with a cover and nothing interferes with the sound playback, otherwise the interlocutor can only hear silence or distortion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I write an answering machine to Xiaomi without the Internet?
Yes, if you use a third-party app that records sound locally and responds via a SIM card, you don't need internet, but if you use Google Assistant services or carrier cloud features, a network connection may be required to initially set up or operate some features.
Why does my Xiaomi not have an auto-response option in my phone settings?
This depends on the version of the MIUI shell and the region for which the smartphone is intended. In global versions, Google often limits the functionality of the call, in which case the only way out is to install third-party applications from the Play Market or connect the service with the carrier.
Does the operator charge for using the answering machine?
The answering machine function in the phone (via apps) is free, but Voicemail services from telecom operators are usually paid, and it is also worth considering that those who enter the answering machine can be charged as normal incoming, and outgoing calls to listen to messages as outgoing, according to your plan.
Does the answering machine work if the phone is locked?
Yes, if the app has the necessary permissions and is running in the background (which requires settings in the Battery and Special Features section), it will be able to answer a call even when the screen is locked. However, if the phone is completely off or in Flight mode, the answering machine will not work.
How to turn off the answering machine on Xiaomi?
To disable the function, go to the Phone app» → Settings → Auto-response and switch off the switch. If you used a third-party application, delete it or turn it off in the settings. USSD-team-room.