Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is still one of the most popular smartphones of the brand due to balanced characteristics and support for current versions of MIUI. However, the feature of recording calls in this model is not implemented clearly: it is not in the basic firmware for some regions, and third-party applications often fail. In this guide, we will analyze all working methods of recording conversations, from hidden MIUI settings to reliable alternative programs, as well as talk about legal aspects and optimization of sound quality.
It is important to understand that recording capabilities depend on the firmware version and regional policies of Xiaomi. For example, in European MIUI builds, the feature can be blocked due to privacy laws, whereas in global and Chinese versions it is often available out of the box. We tested all methods on the Redmi Note 8 Pro with MIUI 14 (Android 12) - current data for 2026.
If you're looking for a way to save an important conversation -- for work, for proof, for personal purposes -- this article will help you choose the best option for your tasks, and if you've tried recording calls and experienced problems (e.g., the recording is interrupted or the interlocutor is not heard), here you will find solutions to typical errors.
1. Built-in call recording in MIUI: where to look and how to turn on
So, to start with the obvious, the standard recording function, which can be hidden in the settings, and depending on the firmware version, the path to it is different, but the general principle is the same: the function is activated through the phone menu.
Here's how to check for it:
- π± Open the phone application (pipe icon).
- π Click on three dots in the upper right corner β Select Settings.
- π€ Scroll down to the Recording of Conversations section (or Call Recording in English version).
- π If there is no item, try updating the firmware or using alternative methods from the following sections.
If the function is available, you can:
- β Choose which calls to record: everything, only incoming or outgoing.
- β Set automatic recording for specific contacts (useful for customer service).
- β Set up a recording notification (so that the interlocutor knows about the recording of the conversation).
β οΈ Note: In some countries (e.g. the EU), automatic recording without notifying the interlocutor may violate privacy laws.
2. Alternative applications for recording: TOP-3 verified versions
If the built-in feature is missing or is not stable, third-party apps come to the rescue, and we selected the three most reliable solutions that were tested on the Redmi Note 8 Pro:
| Annex | Features | Cons | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cube Call Recorder ACR | High quality recording, cloud storage, VoIP support (WhatsApp, Viber). | A premium version for advanced functions. | Google Play |
| Call Recorder β Automatic | Automatic recording, spam call filtering, integration with Google Drive. | The commercial is free. | Google Play |
| Truecaller | Record + block spam, number determination, free storage of records. | Registration and access to contacts. | Google Play |
Before installing any application, check the permissions it requests. Avoid programs that require SMS access, geolocation or administrator rights β these are signs of potentially dangerous software.
How to set up a record in Cube Call Recorder ACR (Step-by-step):
Install the app from Google Play|Open settings βSelect the sound source (Microphone + Bluetooth for better quality)|Enable Auto Record |Add exceptions for contacts that do not need to be recorded |Check the test call-->
If the app doesnβt record calls after installation, try:
- π Reboot your smartphone.
- π± Enable the Developer Mode and activate the Debugging option USB (Sometimes it helps in conflicts with MIUI).
- ποΈ Clear the app cache in the phone settings.
3. Hidden MIUI capabilities: recording through the engineering menu
For advanced users, there is a way to activate the recording via Xiaomiβs engineering menu, which doesnβt work on all firmware, but can save you if other options arenβt available.
Instructions:
- Open the phone app and dial the combination: ##4636##
- In the menu that opens, select Phone Information.
- Scroll down to the Record Settings (or Call Settings) section.
- Activate the Voice Call Recording option.
- Save the changes and restart the device.
β οΈ Warning: Changes to the engineering menu can lead to unstable phone performance.On Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro with MIUI 14 This method only works on firmware prior to version 12.5.3 β in new builds, access to the recording function via the engineering menu is blocked.
If the engineering menu doesnβt open, try the alternative code:
##847##This combination sometimes works on Chinese versions of firmware.
4. Recording conversations via second telephone or recorder
If software methods are not suitable (for example, due to legal restrictions or technical problems), you can use hardware solutions.
You'll need:
- π± Second smartphone (or voice recorder) with recording mode enabled.
- π External microphone (optional, for better quality).
- π§ Headphones with microphone (if you record through your phone).
How to record a conversation:
- Put the second phone next to the main one (microphone to speaker).
- Turn on the recording on the second device before the call begins.
- Use the speakerphone on the Redmi Note 8 Pro to make sure both voices are recorded clearly.
- At the end of the conversation, save the file and, if necessary, cut the extra snippets in the audio editor (for example, Lexis Audio Editor).
Advantages of the method:
- β Does not require root rights or special applications.
- β It works even if the interlocutor blocks the recording at the program level.
- β Can be used for conference calls.
Disadvantages:
- β The sound quality depends on the acoustics of the room.
- β Additional device required.
π‘
If you are recording through a second phone, place it on a soft surface (such as a towel) to avoid echoes and noise from vibration.
5. Legal nuances: When recording a conversation is legal
Before making a call, it is important to understand the legal implications, and most countries have the following rules:
| Country/region | Does the consent of the interlocutor be required? | Can I use the recording in court? |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | Not if you are a participant in the conversation (Article 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation). | Yes, as proof. |
| European Union (GDPR) | Yeah, we'll have to give you a notice. | Only with the consent of both parties. |
| United States (depending on state) | In most states, the consent of one party (your) is sufficient. | Yes, but with reservations. |
| Ukraine | Not if the recording is for personal use. | Yeah, but not as the only proof. |
General recommendations:
- π’ Always notify the person you are using if you plan to use it officially.
- π Store records in a secure location (e.g., in an encrypted cloud).
- βοΈ Before using the record in court, consult a lawyer.
β οΈ Note: In some countries (e.g. Germany or France), unauthorized recording of conversations can be considered a violation of the right to privacy and can be punished with a fine of up to 20,000 euros.
6. Optimizing recording quality: how to avoid noise and breaks
Even if you've set up a recording, the sound quality can leave much to be desired. Here are 5 tips on how to improve the audio:
- ποΈ Use an external microphone: Connect through USB-C Bluetooth 5.0 (for example, Boya) BY-M1 or Rode VideoMic).
- πΆ Turn off battery savings: In the Battery settings β Select Performance Mode to High Performance to Keep Recording Uninterrupted.
- π Use headphones with a microphone: This will reduce background noise and improve the audibility of your voice.
- π± Close background apps: Especially instant messengers and games that can put a strain on the processor.
- π Test before an important call: Record a test conversation and check quality.
If the recording is interrupted or the voice of the interlocutor disappears, the reasons may be as follows:
- π΅ Weak network signal (switch to the 4G or VoLTE in the settings SIM-map).
- π Low battery (plug in charge before a long conversation).
- π οΈ Conflict with other apps (try recording a call in Safe Mode).
How to turn on Safe Mode on Redmi Note 8 Pro?
7 Where the records are stored and how to keep them for a long time
By default, call records are stored in the smartphone's internal memory, and the path to the files depends on the way you record them:
| Recording | The path to files | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in MIUI function | /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec/ | .m4a or.amr |
| Cube Call Recorder | /storage/emulated/0/CubeBackup/CallRecorder/ | .mp3 or.wav |
| Truecaller | /storage/emulated/0/Truecaller/Recordings/ | .mp3 |
| Dictaphone | /storage/emulated/0/Recorders/ or /storage/emulated/0/Recordings/ | .mp3, .wav, .aac |
So the records don't get lost:
- Copy files to your computer or to the cloud (Google Drive, Yandex Disk).
- Use backup applications such as Swift Backup (requires root rights) or Mi Mover (built into MIUI).
- If the records are important, save them in several places (rule 3-2-1: 3 copies, 2 media, 1 cloud).
For long-term storage, we recommend converting files to.mp3 with a bitrate of at least 128 kbit / s. This can be done using applications:
- π΅ Audio Converter (Android).
- π» Audacity (PC).
π‘
Check your records folder regularly and clear it of unnecessary files β they take up space and can slow down your smartphone.