Why this method works and when to use it
Xiaomi smartphones hide a number of engineering menus that allow users to test hardware, change system settings or even bypass locks. One little-known way to get into these menus is by using the emergency call feature, which does not require super-user rights (root) and works even on locked devices where the main screen is not available.
It's important to understand that this feature is designed to test the communication module and network diagnostics by the operator, but enthusiasts have found that this menu allows you to access advanced MIUI settings, including EngineerMode, Hardware Testing and even Fastboot on some models, the method is relevant for Redmi, POCO, Mi and Black Shark devices based on MIUI 12-14 and HyperOS.
When might that be useful?
- π If you have forgotten the pattern lock or PIN-Find My Device is disabled.
- π οΈ For diagnostics of malfunctions (checking camera, display, battery without disassembly).
- βοΈ When you need to manually configure network settings (for example, when you have problems with the network). 4G/5G).
- π± To reset settings if the smartphone does not respond to standard methods.
What Xiaomi models support this method
The method does not work on all Xiaomi devices, but only on those where the manufacturer has not closed access to the engineering menu through an emergency call.
| Series/model | Support for the method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 8/9/10/11 | β Yes. | It runs MIUI 12-14, including the Redmi Note 10 Pro (with a Snapdragon processor). |
| POCO X3/X4/F4/F5 | β Yes. | Nana POCO F5 (2023 may be required SIM-menu-card. |
| Mi 10/11/12 | β οΈ Partially. | The Mi 11 Ultra is restricted to network tests. |
| Redmi K40/K50 | β Yes. | Including Redmi K50 Gaming and K60 (2023) |
| Xiaomi 13/14 | β No. | On the flagships of 2022-2026, the method is blocked. |
Important! On HyperOS devices (2026), emergency call access may be limited. If nothing happens after you enter the code, try alternative methods (e.g., ADB or Fastboot).
β οΈ Note: Some models (e.g. Redmi) A1/A2) Attempting to log into the engineering menu via an emergency call can result in a temporary lockdown SIM-If it is critical, use the method only with a spare card.
Step-by-step: how to enter the settings through an emergency call
The procedure takes no more than a minute, but requires precise steps to follow, and an error at any stage can result in a network reset or a device reboot.
βοΈ Preparation for the entrance to the engineering menu
1. Open the Phone app and go to the Emergency Call tab (or Emergency Call in English firmware).
2. Enter one of the following codes (depending on the model):
#4636## - Basic engineering menu (tests and statistics)
#36446337## - EMT (Engineer Mode Testing)
##225## - Checking the calibration of the battery
##44336## - Information about the software version and hardware3. After entering the code, a tabbed menu will appear on the screen:
- π Usage statistics β statistics of network usage.
- π§ Battery information β battery data.
- π‘ Wi-Fi information tests of wireless modules.
- π± Device information β details about the processor, memory, display.
4. To access advanced settings, select Device information, then tap 5-7 times on Version (or MIUI Version) to open a hidden Developer Options or Hardware Testing menu.
π‘
If the code doesn't work, try adding a # character at the end (e.g. ##4636###).
What to do in the engineering menu: useful features
The hidden menu provides access to options that are usually hidden in standard MIUI settings.
- π Battery calibration: In Battery information, you can reset your charge statistics if your smartphone suddenly turns off at 20 to 30 percent charge, and this won't restore battery capacity, but it will correct the percentage display errors.
- πΆ Manual Network Configuration: Network Testing allows you to manually select a network type (2G/3G/4G/5G), Block certain frequencies or force a connection to a specific operatorβs tower.
- π€ Microphone and speaker test: Audio provides audio quality testing tools, including test signal recording.
- πΈ Camera Testing menu allows you to check the operation of all modules (wide-angle, telephoto, macro) without running a standard application.
For example, if your Redmi Note 12 doesnβt catch 5G, you can:
- Go to Network Testing β Band Selection.
- Choose. NR (5G) manually activate the supported frequencies (e.g, n78 for Russia).
- Save settings and restart the phone.
β οΈ Note: Change of settings in the Radio Information section (e.g, IMEI If you're not sure what to do, take a screenshot of your current settings before you change.
What happens if you reset your network settings in the engineering menu?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with the right code entry, users often face problems, and here are the common mistakes and their solutions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Code's not working. | Outdated firmware or security patch | Update MIUI to the latest version or use an alternative code (#36446337##). |
| The menu opens but is empty. | Manufacturer restrictions on the model 2023+ years | Try connecting your phone to your PC and using ADB to access settings. |
| The phone is rebooted after entering the code | Conflict with installed Magisk or Xposed modules | Turn off root access and try again. |
| No Device Information tab | Firmware with remote engineering functions (e.g. global version) | Install Custom Recavers (TWRP) and patch the menu to restore. |
If after entering the engineering menu, the smartphone began to slow down or overheat, follow the following steps:
- Go back to the main menu and select Clear Data (if available).
- Restart the device in Safe Mode (press the power button β Safe Mode).
- If the problem persists, do a reset via Recovery (clip Power + Volume up when turned on).
π‘
On HyperOS devices (2026), access to the engineering menu via emergency call is often blocked, in which case use the official Xiaomi Service Center app (available from GetApps) for diagnostics.
Alternative ways to access hidden settings
If the emergency call method doesnβt work, try one of the alternatives:
- π Through ADB: Connect your phone to your PC, turn on Debugging. USB The command is: adb shell am start. -a android.settings.SETTINGS This will open up standard settings even if the screen is locked.
- π Through Fastboot: Boot into Fastboot mode (clip the power supply) + Volume down) and use the command: fastboot oem edl to switch to Emergency Download Mode (requires unlocked bootloader).
- π± Through the Mi Tool app: Xiaomi's official diagnostic tool (link) Supports iron tests without root rights.
For HyperOS devices (such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi K70), the only reliable way to do this is to use MIUI Hidden Settings (an app from Google Play).
- π Hidden network parameters (e.g. VoLTE and VoWiFi).
- β‘ Performance settings (background restriction, thermal mode).
- π‘ Manual calibration of sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer).
Security: Risks and how to minimize them
Working with engineering menus is always fraught with risks.
- π¨ Loss of warranty: Changing settings in Radio Settings or Hardware Info may be considered by the service center as an interference with the firmware.
- π΅ Network Blocking: Band Selection will result in a signal missing.
- π Battery damage: Resetting calibration on a worn-out battery can accelerate its degradation.
To avoid problems:
- Backup your device via Mi Cloud or Google Drive.
- Write down the current network settings (screenshots or manual entry into a notebook).
- Do not change settings that you do not know the purpose of (for example, RF Calibration or PA Status).
β οΈ Note: On some firmware (for example, MIUI EU) change IMEI You can only re-flash through the engineering menu, and you can lock the modem completely. EDL.
π‘
If the phone stopped catching the network after the changes in the engineering menu, return the settings to the factory settings via ##4636## β Menu β Restore Defaults.