Xiaomi Redmi 8 VoLTE icon: What it means and how to use it in 2026

Have you noticed a new icon on your Xiaomi Redmi 8 that says VoLTE in the top notification bar and don’t know what it means? Don’t be in a hurry to turn it off – it’s not just an indicator, but a sign that your smartphone supports modern voice technology. In this article, we’ll take a look at what VoLTE is, why it appeared on your Redmi 8, how to set it up correctly and in which cases it should be disabled.

Voice over LTE (Voice over 4G) is changing the quality of calls, but many users still don’t understand the benefits or face problems when activating. We analyzed Xiaomi’s official documentation, Redmi 8 owners’ reviews and mobile carrier data to compile the most relevant guide for 2026, and here you will find not only theory but also practical tips – from checking operator support to solving typical bugs.

What is VoLTE and why did it appear on Redmi 8?

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) — It's a fourth-generation voice technology (4G), Unlike traditional calls that use legacy networks. 2G/3G. The main advantage is that the sound quality of VoLTE calls is comparable to that of the HD-audio, and the connection is established almost instantly (in the 2–3 It's faster than normal calls. - Xiaomi Redmi 8 VoLTE support is implemented at the hardware level, but requires proper configuration.

Why is the icon now? The fact is that many operators (for example, MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) actively transfer subscribers to VoLTE, disabling outdated 2G/3G networks. Your Redmi 8 automatically connects to VoLTE if:

• 📶 Your company supports the technology in your area.
• 📱 In the smartphone installed actual firmware (MIUI 12 and above)
• 🔧 In the settings, the option VoLTE is enabled (sometimes it is activated by default)
• 📞 Yours. SIM-map compatible 4G-networks (usually nano-SIM of the new model)

If the VoLTE icon flashes or disappears, it could indicate problems with 4G coverage or incorrect APN settings, which we will discuss in detail in the troubleshooting section.

Differences between VoLTE and conventional calls: 5 key benefits

Many Redmi 8 users don't see the difference between VoLTE and standard calls until they compare them directly, and we tested both on the same device and identified the main differences:

The difference is especially noticeable in areas with poor coverage. 2G/3G — For example, in the subway or on the outskirts of cities. VoLTE on Redmi 8 This is often the only way to make a call, because 4G-Networks usually have a wider coverage.

⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the battery is discharged faster after activating VoLTE, check the settings of the Mobile Network → Network mode. Sometimes the smartphone has to switch between the two. 4G and 3G, If the VoLTE is not configured correctly.

How to enable VoLTE on Xiaomi Redmi 8: step-by-step instructions

Activation of VoLTE on Redmi 8 takes less than a minute, but requires several mandatory conditions.

1. Check the support of the operator to make sure that your rate and SIM-This card is supported by VoLTE: 📞 Call a short operator number (for example *111# for MTS or *105# for Beeline) 🌐 Go to the personal account on the operator's website and check the section "Services" 📄 Check with support on 0890 (for MegaFon) or 0611 (for Tele2)

Update the firmware

VoLTE only works on MIUI 12 and later.

Settings → About the phone → System update

If there are no updates, check the firmware region (should be "Russia" or "Global").

Activate VoLTE in the settings

Follow the path:

Settings → SIM- Maps and Mobile Networks → [Select SIM] → Enable VoLTE

If there is no item, your firmware does not support the function (the solution is to reflash the device).

SIM-card 4G|

Operator provides VoLTE in your region |

Installed firmware MIUI 12 or later |

The settings have "Only" mode enabled. 4G" or "4G/3G/2G"-->

Once activated, the VoLTE icon will appear in the status bar next to the network indicator, if it is not, restart your phone or check the APN settings (more on this below).

Typical VoLTE issues on Redmi 8 and their solutions

Even after you set it up properly, VoLTE can be unstable, and we've collected some of the most common bugs and ways to fix them:

• 🔄 VoLTE badge disappears during a call Reason: Smartphone switches to 3G weak signal 4G. Solution: Manually set the network mode 4G customized SIM-If the cover is 4G Unstable - VoLTE is better to disable.
• 📞 No calls made ("Call failed" error) Reason: Incorrect settings APN Or lock by operator. Solution: Reset settings APN to standard: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Access points (APN) → Reset to factory
• 🔋 Fast battery discharge after VoLTE powered on Reason: Constant network search 4G Solution: Turn off VoLTE or turn on power saving mode for mobile network: Settings → Battery and performance → Energy conservation → Limit background activity

⚠️ Note: If after activating VoLTE mobile Internet disappeared, check if the function "Use" is activated. 2G for the Internet" in the settings SIM-This option conflicts with VoLTE and must be disabled.

VoLTE vs Wi-Fi Calling: Which is the best for Redmi 8?

In addition to VoLTE, the Xiaomi Redmi 8 also has another advanced communication technology, Wi-Fi Calling, which both work on the same task (improving communication quality), but work differently.

• 📶 VoLTE – Depends on the coverage 4G. It works wherever there is a mobile network.
• 📶 Wi-Fi Calling – Depends on the quality of Wi-Fi, useful in places with poor mobile signal (for example, in basements or outside the city).

On Redmi 8, you can use both technologies simultaneously, for example, at home you can call over Wi-Fi, and on the street you can automatically switch to VoLTE.

Settings → SIM- Maps and Mobile Networks → [Select SIM] → Calls over Wi-Fi

When should I prefer Wi-Fi Calling?

• 🏠 You often call from places with poor mobile coverage (such as a thick-walled office).
• 🌍 Traveling abroad and want to avoid roaming (wi-fi calls are not charged as roaming).
• 📵 Your operator does not support VoLTE in your area.

💡

If you have problems with communication quality in a particular place (for example, at work), try to turn on both VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling modes.

How to turn off VoLTE on Xiaomi Redmi 8 (and when to do it)

Despite the benefits, there are times when VoLTE is better deactivated.

• 🔋 Battery is running out too fast due to weak signal 4G.
• 📵 In your region. 4G-Networks are unstable and calls are often cut off.
• 🛠️ You use custom firmware where VoLTE is unstable.
• 📱 You need to forcefully use it. 3G Compatibility with certain services (e.g. banking applications).

To disable VoLTE:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose yours. SIM-map.
3. Turn off the "Enable VoLTE" switch.
4. Reboot your phone (required!).

⚠️ Warning: After disabling VoLTE, your Redmi 8 You will be using standard calls through 3G/2G. This can lead to poor audio quality and increased connection times. If you notice that calls have gotten worse, return VoLTE back to the phone.

💡

VoLTE should only be turned off in extreme cases, and in 90% of cases, the technology improves communication quality, and battery or stability problems are solved by setting up an APN or updating a firmware.

The future of VoLTE: should we expect new features on Redmi 8

VoLTE technology continues to evolve, and in 2026 operators will introduce new features that can be available on the Xiaomi Redmi 8 (subject to a firmware update).

• 🎥 ViLTE (Video over LTE) — video calls without third-party applications (MTS and MegaFon are already being tested).
• 🔄 eSIM + VoLTE – Support for virtualization SIM-maps with quality of communication.
• 🌍 Roaming VoLTE – the ability to use the technology in roaming (although only available from some operators).

But Redmi 8 owners shouldn’t expect revolutionary upgrades: The smartphone was released in 2019 and its hardware is limited, for example, it doesn’t support 5G and is unlikely to receive VoNR (voice over 5G). If you care about the most advanced communication features, consider switching to new Xiaomi models like the Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5.

However, even on Redmi 8, you can improve the VoLTE experience:

• 📲 Update your firmware regularly (even if updates are rare).
• 🔄 Reset your network settings (Settings) periodically → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings).
• 📡 Use network monitoring applications (such as NetMonster or NetMonster) LTE Discovery to track quality 4G-covering.

FAQ: Frequent questions about VoLTE on Xiaomi Redmi 8