Why your Xiaomi has a VoLTE icon and is it worth fearing?
Have you noticed a mysterious VoLTE sign next to the network indicator in the status bar of the Xiaomi smartphone? This icon appears to many users after updating the firmware or changing the SIM card, but not everyone understands what it means. Some mistakenly mistake it for a network error or a sign of a phone malfunction.VoLTE (Voice over) LTE) β It is a modern voice communication technology that works on top of 4G-network.
In this article, we will explore why MIUI displays this indicator, how the technology affects call quality and battery consumption, and most importantly how to turn off VoLTE on Xiaomi if it interferes with or causes problems. It is important to note that on different models (for example, Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 or Xiaomi 13), the process may be slightly different, but the general logic remains the same. We will also consider the nuances for operators of MTS, Beeline, Megaphone and Tele2, since their settings sometimes conflict with the MIUI firmware.
Xiaomi VoLTE: What are these simple words?
VoLTE Technology (Voice over) LTE) It allows you to transmit voice traffic through high-speed 4G-Networks instead of traditional 2G/3G. That means your calls:
- π Pass more clearly - without noise and interruptions, as in messengers;
- β‘ Connect faster - there is no delay in dialing;
- π Do not interrupt the Internet β you can talk and use mobile traffic at the same time.
But there's a downside to this, because VoLTE can drain your battery faster if your 4G network is unstable in your area, and some users complain about problems connecting calls when the signal is weak, because the phone is trying to use 4G for voice, even though 3G would be more reliable, which is why many people want to turn it off.
It is worth noting that Xiaomi defaults to VoLTE on all modern models (starting with the Redmi 9 and Mi 10) if the SIM card and operator support the technology, but the setting can be reset after updating the MIUI or restarting the phone.
How to check if VoLTE is enabled on your Xiaomi
Before you turn off the function, make sure it's actually active. There are three reliable ways to do this.
- Status bar indicator: If VoLTE or HD is displayed next to the network signal level, the function is enabled.
- Settings menu: Open Settings β SIM-Maps and mobile networks; select your SIM-card; VoLTE or Improved Calls must be in the On position..
USSD code
#
#
Phone information
VoLTE provisioned
Yes
π‘
If, after input, USSD-If there is no code, try dialing it in the standard βPhoneβ application, and not through the keyboard in messengers.
Note that on some MIUI firmware (especially POCO and Redmi with global version), the VoLTE option may be hidden in the submenu of Additional Settings. If you do not find an option, search by settings (the magnifying icon in the upper right corner).
Step-by-step: how to disable VoLTE on Xiaomi
The process of disconnecting depends on the version of MIUI and the phone model. We have collected universal methods that work on most devices (including Xiaomi 12T, Redmi Note 11, POCO F4 and others).
Method 1: Using standard MIUI settings
βοΈ Disconnect VoLTE in MIUI
If you donβt have a VoLTE option on your menu, try an alternative path:
Settings β Connections and Sharing β Mobile Network β SIM-card name β Network type β Disable βVoLTEβMethod 2: Engineering menu (for advanced users)
This method is suitable if the standard settings do not allow you to turn off the function. Be careful - improper actions in the engineering menu can disrupt the network.
- Dial the code ##4636##;
- Go to the section Information about the phone;
- Select to Set your preferred network type.
- Select the LTE/WCDMA/GSM (auto) or 3G/2G (auto) value.
Problem 3: The VoLTE icon doesn't disappear after the shutdown
This is a common MIUI bug. Try this:
- Delete. SIM-Map, restart the phone and paste it back in;
- Reset your network settings (see above);
- Install an alternative firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.EU) if the problem is critical.
π‘
If you travel frequently, we recommend turning off VoLTE roaming, a feature that can lead to unexpected charges for some operators.
VoLTE vs ViLTE vs VoWiFi: What's the difference?
On modern Xiaomi smartphones, you can find not only VoLTE, but also other similar technologies.
| Technology | Transcription | How it works | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| VoLTE | Voice over LTE | Voice calls over 4G | Clear sound, fast connection. |
| ViLTE | Video over LTE | Video calls over 4G | High quality video, no lags |
| VoWiFi | Voice over Wi-Fi | Calls over Wi-Fi | It works without a mobile network, saves battery |
On Xiaomi smartphones, these features are often linked: for example, VoLTE can automatically turn on when activated (if the operator supports), they are usually managed in the same menu:
β SIM-Maps and mobile networks β Improved callsβ οΈ Warning: If you turn off VoLTE, VoWiFi may also stop working. These technologies often depend on each other at the firmware level.