Set up the application for calls by default on Xiaomi

Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco smartphones often face a situation where, after updating the system or installing new software, the behavior of the call interface changes. The default call app is a system component that automatically starts when dialing or calling. In the Chinese giant’s ecosystem, this issue is especially acute due to the constant changes in the MIUI shell and the transition to HyperOS.

Many users prefer the standard Google Dialer because of its smart spam database and user-friendly interface, while others remain loyal to the native MIUI Dialer with its conversation recording function. It is critical to understand that in modern versions of Android (11, 12, 13, 14), the system forcibly requires the selection of the main application to make calls, and ignoring this requirement can lead to the inability to make a call.

Changing the priority application affects not only the appearance of the dial, but also the work of contacts, call history and integration with the Internet. SIM-Incorrect configuration can cause delays or connection errors. Below we will discuss in detail the mechanisms for switching between system components and third-party solutions, and answer frequent questions about compatibility.

Why Change the Standard Call App

The main reason users want to change the default call app is because of functional differences between standard solutions. The native MIUI Dialer on global firmware versions often lacks the ability to record conversations via the speaker, which is a key feature of the Chinese versions. At the same time, Google Phone offers excellent spam filtering and integration with a Google account, but can conflict with some shell features.

In addition, third-party developers are creating lightweight and fast alternatives that consume less battery life.If your smartphone is running slowly or you notice that the dialing interface is “hanging,” changing a default application may be a solution to the performance problem.

• 📞 Functionality: Access to recording conversations, a smart number identifier or blocking ads in inboxes.
• 🚀 Performance: Lightweight apps run faster on older Redmi and Poco models.
• 🎨 Interface: Ability to customize the dialing theme and button location.

However, it is worth remembering that replacing the system component is an interference with Android. Not all third-party applications have full rights to access telephony, which may limit their functionality, for example, some programs will not be able to display a full-screen photo of a caller or sync with the manufacturer’s cloud services.

How to change the call app in Android settings

The easiest and safest way to change a priority call app is to use the built-in operating system settings. This method works on all current versions of MIUI and HyperOS. You don't need root rights or a computer connection. The action algorithm is standard, but the menu items names may vary slightly depending on the shell version.

To start, you need to go to the system settings section. Find the one that manages installed programs. In modern Xiaomi interfaces, this section is often hidden inside the Apps subsection, which can confuse the inexperienced user. Be careful when choosing the right one so that you don't reset all the programs at once.

The sequence of actions is as follows:

1. Open the settings of your device.
2. Go to the Appendix section.
3. Select Application Management (or “All Apps”).
4. Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
5. In the drop-down menu, select the Applications by default.
6. Find the phone line or the Call App.
7. Tap it and select the desired app from the list (e.g. Google or MIUI Phone).

Once selected, the system can request confirmation of actions. This is the standard Android security measure, warning that the selected application will have access to your contacts and call history. Confirm the action, and from now on, all incoming and outgoing calls will be processed by the new program.

Google Dialer Problems on Xiaomi and Their Solutions

Many users are eager to install Google Dialer on their Xiaomi devices to get automatic conversation recording with notification of the interlocutor. However, on global firmware, there is often a situation when the system does not allow the choice of Google application as the main one, or it does not work correctly, due to security policies and regional restrictions.

Often the problem is that the app doesn't have the necessary permissions or it was not properly updated through the Google Play Store. Sometimes the conflict arises because of the cache of the old MIUI Dialer settings. In such cases, a simple reinstallation may not help, and a deeper intervention in the permission settings is required.

⚠️ Note: If after installing Google Dialer, the speaker sound is lost or the recording of conversations stops working, try clearing the phone application data in the settings, but remember that this will remove the call history inside this application.

Also, it should be noted that on some models with the new version of HyperOS, the mechanism of telephony operation has been changed. If standard methods do not help, you can try to force the application through the use of a new version of HyperOS. ADB-commands, although this requires a computer and basic debugging knowledge.

adb shell pm grant com.google.android.dialer android.permission.CALL_PHONE

This command (if you have access to ADB) compulsorily authorizes calls. However, in most cases, just double-check the access rights in the menu of the smartphone itself. Go to Settings → Applications → Phone (Google) → Permissions and make sure that all switches are active, especially access to Contacts and Phone.

Use of third-party dialers

The Android market offers many alternative “calls” that can replace standard solutions. Popular options include Truecaller, Simple Dialer or Right Dialer. These applications often offer advanced spam blocking features, instant messenger integration or unique design. Installing such software is the first step to changing the experience.

Once you install a third-party app, Android won't switch to it automatically. You'll still have to follow the procedure described in the second section to designate it as the default app. Without this step, when you try to make a call, the system will ask you how to open the action, or just ignore the new program.

Third-party solutions can be especially useful for people with visual or motor impairments, as they often offer enlarged buttons and contrasting themes. However, you should be careful: giving a third-party application the rights to call and access contacts, you trust it with confidential information.

Some heavy number detectors can slow down your smartphone in the background by consuming battery power. If you notice that your phone is discharged faster after installing a new caller, it makes sense to go back to the standard solution or choose a lighter alternative.

System Solutions Comparison: MIUI vs. Google

Choosing between the native MIUI Dialer and Google Phone is the eternal dilemma of Xiaomi owners, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, which depend on the specific needs of the user, and understanding these differences will help make an informed decision.

MIUI Dialer is deeply integrated into the shell, providing smooth themes and system fonts. It often contains features useful in Asia, such as powerful blocking of SMS and calls to databases relevant to the region. However, in global versions, it lacks the feature of recording conversations, which is a critical disadvantage for many.

Google Phone, by contrast, offers great integration with the Google ecosystem, smart business search and reliable protection against spam. Recording conversations is present, but with the mandatory voice notification of the interlocutor. The interface is more minimal and “clean”, without unnecessary elements.

Frequent errors and ways to fix them

Changing a call app is rarely a problem, especially on devices with modified firmware, and one of the common mistakes is that the gray select button or the app is not available, which often happens when the application is not installed or hidden by the system.

Another problem is resetting after rebooting, where MIUI can sometimes roll back a user's choice to the factory standard after an upgrade or forced reboot, and in such cases, it is recommended not only to select an application, but also to prevent the system from optimizing its operation in the Battery section.

⚠️ Warning: If contact names stop showing after changing the app, check permissions. The new app needs explicit permission to access the contact list, otherwise you will only see numbers.

Users may also experience dialing the wrong application that is the default one, which may indicate an intent filter, which can be used to clear the cache of both apps (old and new) and re-priority.

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If the default button is inactive, try to temporarily shut down the Internet. In some versions of MIUI, this allows you to bypass the check and select the desired application.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

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Properly configuring a call app is a balance between functionality, the familiar interface, and the necessary security permissions.