Recording phone conversations on Xiaomi Redmi 8: a complete guide with proven ways

Recording phone conversations on Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a challenge many users face. Without this feature, it is difficult to preserve important details of a business call, evidence for litigation or just memorable conversations with loved ones. However, the standard MIUI features on this model are limited: unlike Xiaomi’s flagship devices, Redmi 8 does not have a built-in recorder in the Phone app, due to both Google policy (banning hidden recording in Android 10+) and regional restrictions.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods, including hidden firmware functions, third-party applications and workarounds for owners of Redmi 8 (codenamed olive).We will pay special attention to the legal aspects: in Russia, recording a conversation without the consent of the interlocutor is allowed only for personal use (Article 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation), but is prohibited for distribution.

Why is Redmi 8 not using a built-in call record?

The reason lies in three key factors:

• 📱 Android Version: Redmi 8 Released With Android 9 Pie (MIUI 10, but later received an update to Android 10 (MIUI Since Android 10, Google has tightened the rules for recording applications by requiring that the recording be notified.
• 🌍 Regional restrictions: Call recording is often present in firmware for India and China, but in global versions (e.g., in global versions, MIUI Global 12.0.3) is being removed due to legal risks.
• 🔒 Xiaomi policy: The company deliberately refuses to write in budget models to avoid problems with certification in the EU and the US, where the laws are stricter.

Interestingly, the Redmi Note 8 Pro (released later) has a feature that confirms that the limitation is software, not hardware, but the Redmi 8 will have to use workarounds.

Method 1: Hidden MIUI function (without root)

Few people know, but Redmi 8 has a built-in recorder that can be activated via an engineering menu, which runs on MIUI 11-12.5 and doesn't require superuser rights. Importantly, once upgraded to Android 11 (if available), the method may stop working.

Instructions:

1. Open the Phone app and type the code ##6484## (this activates the MTK Engineer Mode test menu).
2. Go to Hardware Testing → Audio → Normal Mode.
3. Select Type: Voice Call and press Start. All calls will now be recorded in the background.
4. The files will be saved in /sdcard/MtkLog/audio in.amr format.

Check the MIUI version (should not be higher than 12.5)

Create a backup of data (in case of failure)

Make sure your phone has enough memory (1 minute of recording = ~1 MB)

Disable the antivirus (it can block access to system files)-->

⚠️ Warning: After using this method, in some cases, the sound in the speaker disappears. To return it, restart the phone or reset the sound settings in Settings. → Sound.

The advantage of this method is that you don't have to install third-party applications, but the quality of the recording leaves much to be desired: the voice of the interlocutor may sound quiet, and noise cancellation does not work, and for important conversations, it is better to use specialized programs.

Method 2: Call recording applications (TOP-3)

If the hidden MIUI function didn't work, third-party apps will come to the rescue, and we tested dozens of programs and selected the three most reliable ones for Redmi 8:

Installation and configuration (as in Cube Call Recorder ACR):

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. When you first start, grant permissions to Record Sound, Contacts and Warehouse.
3. Select the Sound Source: Microphone + VoIP (this is important for Redmi 8!).
4. Activate Automatic Record for all calls or only for selected contacts.

💡

If the app doesn't record the voice of the person you're talking to, check if the antivirus (e.g. Avast or 360 Security) is blocking access.

Critical detail for Redmi 8: in the application settings, be sure to turn off the option “Use Android API 10+”, otherwise the record will be empty (due to MIUI limitations).

Method 3: Recording via second phone or voice recorder

If software methods are not suitable (for example, due to corporate constraints), you can use hardware solutions, which guarantees 100% performance, but requires an additional device.

• 📱 Second smartphone: Put it next to you and turn on the recorder (for example, the standard app Recording sound in the audio recording system). MIUI). The negative is that you will hear noise.
• 🎤 External voice recorder: Devices like Sony ICD-UX570 or Zoom H1n They make a clear sound, but they cost 5,000. ₽.
• 🔌 Audio splitter: Connect to Redmi 8 splitter with access to the recording device (for example, through 3.5 mm jack.

For better quality:

• Use a room without echoes.
• Place the second phone at a distance of 30-50 cm from the main one.
• Turn on the “Phone” mode in the recorder to improve voice perception.

Method 4: Write through Google Drive (for outbound)

Unexpected but working lifehack: If you need to record an outgoing call, you can use the Google Drive Calls feature, which is suitable for calling numbers registered with Google Contacts.

Algorithm of action:

1. Open Google Drive on your computer.
2. Go to Settings → Application Management → Google Drive for desktop.
3. Activate Call Recording (not available in all regions)
4. Create a new call through Google Meet or the standard Phone app by synchronizing your contacts with Google.

The record will be saved in the folder Google Drive → Calls in.mp3 format. minus the method – works only for outbound and requires a stable Internet. Google can also notify the interlocutor about the recording (depending on the country).

Method 5: Rooting and modified firmware (for advanced)

If you're willing to take drastic measures, installing custom firmware (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience) will give you access to a full call record, but this is only suitable for advanced users, because:

• ⚠️ All data will be reset (backup required!).
• ⚠️ Possible loss of warranty (if the phone is warranty).
• ⚠️ Risk of "bricking" (turning into a "brick") in case of firmware error.

Step-by-step:

1. Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool (it takes 7-15 days to unlock).
2. Install TWRP Recovery for Redmi 8 (version 3.5.2).
3. Sweat custom firmware with recording support (like Havoc OS).
4. In the new firmware settings, activate the Call Recording option in the Phone Settings section.

💡

Rooting and custom firmware give you maximum control over your device, but they deprive you of official security updates. Use this method only if other methods don't work.

Once the firmware is up, the recording will be automatic and the files will be saved to /sdcard/CallRecordings. Sound quality will be at the level of flagship devices, but remember: modified software may conflict with banking applications (due to SafetyNet).

Legal nuances of recording conversations in Russia

Before you record calls, consider the legal aspects of:

• 📜 For personal use: It is allowed to record conversations without notifying the interlocutor (Article 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation on the right to secrecy of correspondence does not apply to personal records).
• ⚖️ For litigation: The record may be used as evidence, but the court may request confirmation of its authenticity (Article 55 of the Civil Procedure Code of the Russian Federation).
• 🚫 Prohibited: Distribute records without the consent of the interlocutor (Article 137 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation – violation of privacy).

In 2023, Roskomnadzor issued clarifications that records of conversations with banks or government agencies cannot be used against you unless you consented to the recording, but in controversial situations (such as conflict with collectors), it is better to notify the interlocutor at the beginning of the conversation: “The conversation is recorded to record information.”

⚠️ Note: If you record a conversation for work (e.g. as a sales manager), the company may require you to provide written consent from the customer to record.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi 8 call recording