VoLTE in Xiaomi Redmi phone: what it means and how to turn off

You saw in the settings of your Xiaomi Redmi mysterious switch VoLTE and wondered: what is it, why is it necessary and can it be turned off without consequences? This technology has become the standard for modern smartphones, but not all users understand its purpose - especially when it comes to budget models Redmi Note 10, Redmi. 9A or flagships like Redmi K50. In this article, we will understand how VoLTE affects the quality of calls, why operators strongly recommend turning it on, and most importantly, how to safely disable VoLTE on any Xiaomi Redmi if it interferes with the phone’s operation.

The debate about the benefits of the technology can be long: some argue that without VoLTE calls sound worse, others complain about fast battery discharge or Internet problems during a conversation. We will not convince you to leave or remove the feature — instead, we will provide clear instructions for different versions. MIUI (including MIUI 12/13/14), And we'll also talk about hidden nuances that are not written in the official manuals, like, did you know that on some Redmi models, turning off VoLTE can lead to automatic resetting of mobile network settings? Or that there are hidden parameters in the engineering menu that affect the stability of communication?

What is VoLTE and why is it needed in Xiaomi Redmi?

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) — This is voice transmission technology on networks. 4G, which replaced the outdated standards 2G/3G. Unlike traditional calls, where voice is transmitted over a separate channel, VoLTE uses packet data over a protocol. IP, It's like downloading files or watching videos, and it has a few key benefits:

• 📞 Clearer sound: wide bandwidth (up to 24 kHz) allows voice transmission in format HD, Reduce noise and improve legibility.
• ⚡ Instant connection: the call setup time is reduced by 5-7 second 1-2 seconds.
• 🌐 Parallel operation of the Internet: during a conversation, access to mobile data is not interrupted (you can simultaneously talk and use instant messengers).
• 🔋 Battery savings: the phone doesn’t switch between 4G and 3G, reduces the load on the modem.

But it's not all that rosy. First of all, VoLTE only works when it's coated. 4G — If the network is weak, the phone will automatically switch to the 3G/2G, And second, some Xiaomi Redmi users are experiencing bugs:

• 🔇 The sound is lost during the call (especially on the Redmi Note). 8/9 s MIUI 12).
• 📵 Communication breaks when moving between coverage areas.
• 📉 Increased traffic consumption (up to) 1-2 MB in a minute of conversation).
• 🔄 Interface freezes when VoLTE is activated on older models (Redmi) 6/7).

Not all Russian operators are equally supportive of VoLTE, for example, MTS and Beeline technology is stable, and Tele2 or virtual operators (like Yota) may have restrictions. If you travel often, it is worth considering that in roaming VoLTE can automatically turn off or be charged according to other rules.

How to check if VoLTE is enabled on your Xiaomi Redmi

Before you turn off VoLTE, make sure it is actually active. MIUI There are several ways to check it out:

Method 1: Through the notification panel

During the call, look at the top line of the status:

• 📱 If there is an inscription next to the network indicator HD Or VoLTE, the technology works.
• 📶 If only displayed 4G without additional icons – VoLTE is disabled or not supported by the operator.
• 📞 If the network switched to 3G or+ — VoLTE temporarily unavailable (weak signal) 4G).

Method 2: Through settings SIM-map

Go to: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Enable VoLTE

If the switch is active (lit in blue), the function is on (MIUI 13+) This may be called improved calls or calls. 4G.

Method 3: Through the Engineering Menu (for Advanced)

Enter the code in the phone app: ##4636##

From the menu that opens, select Phone Information and see Set preferred network type. LTE only LTE/WCDMA tick-ticked 4G LTE Mode - VoLTE is active.

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If there is no change after entering the #4636##, then the engineering menu is blocked by the manufacturer. MTK Engineering Mode (for MediaTek processors) or Network Signal Guru.

Step-by-step: how to disable VoLTE on Xiaomi Redmi

If you decide to disable VoLTE due to communication problems or battery savings, follow this instruction. 9T, Redmi Note 11) may need to restart the phone after shutdown.

Method 1: Through Standard Settings (Recommended)

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to section. SIM-maps and mobile networks.
3. Choose yours. SIM-card (if there are several).
4. Find the Enable VoLTE (or Calls) 4G) and move the switch to the left.
5. Confirm the action if a warning appears.

Method 2: Engineering menu (for experienced)

This is a good way to do it if the standard switch is missing or not working. Careful: wrong actions on the engineering menu can disrupt the network!

1. Enter the code in the phone app: ##4636##.
2. Select Phone Information.
3. Scroll down to the Set preferred network type block.
4. Choose an option WCDMA preferably LTE/WCDMA auto (PRL) (tick-free Enhanced 4G LTE Mode).
5. Click Update and restart the phone.

On models with a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro), the path may be different: → BandMode → Network Mode → Choose. WCDMA only.

Method 3: Disconnection through third-party applications

If the standard methods did not work, you can use utilities like 4G Switch or LTE Discovery. These programs allow:

• 🔧 You must shut down VoLTE even if the operator imposes it.
• 📊 Monitoring the quality of communication in real time.
• 🔄 Quickly switch between modes 2G/3G/4G.

Warning: Some antiviruses (such as Avast) may block such apps as potentially dangerous.

What will happen after the shutdown of VoLTE: pros and cons

The decision to disable VoLTE is always a compromise. Let's look at the implications.

On Xiaomi Redmi models with MediaTek processor (for example, Redmi) 9A, Redmi 10C) Disabling VoLTE can lead to a complete loss of mobile Internet during an active call. MTK, which do not support simultaneous work 3G and 4G free-to-play.

Another nuance: some operators (for example, MTS) when you turn off VoLTE automatically transfer the subscriber to outdated tariff plans with a higher cost of a minute.

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Turning off VoLTE is only advisable in three cases: 1) if you have a weak coverage. 4G, 2) if the operator does not support the technology, 3) if the phone has become less capable of holding the charge after activation of VoLTE.

Frequent problems after VoLTE shutdown and how to fix them

VoLTE shutdowns don't always go smoothly, but here are the typical mistakes and ways to fix them:

Problem 1: Mobile Internet goes missing during a call

Reason: Without VoLTE, the phone switches to 3G for a call, 4G Some operators don't support simultaneous operation. CSFB (Circuited Switched Fallback).

Decision:

• 🔄 Include in the settings the item Use 2G when you call (if you have one).
• 📞 Try using messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) for calls – they work on top of it. 4G.
• 🔧 Install ForceDoze app to optimize network background.

Problem 2: Phone fails to catch network after VoLTE shutdown

Reason: On some firmware (MIUI 12.5 for Redmi Note 8 Pro) reset VoLTE settings knocks configuration APN.

Decision:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Access Points (APN).
2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Reset to factory.
3. Reboot the phone.

Problem 3: The battery goes down quickly

Reason: Constant switching between 4G and 3G Increase the load on the modem.

Decision:

• 🔋 Enable energy saving mode in Settings → Battery.
• 📴 Turn off background data transfer for applications in Settings → Annexes → Background restriction.
• 🔄 Set automatic switching to 2G In the weak signal areas (Network Signal Info).

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If after turning off VoLTE phone began to warm up, check the load on the processor using the application CPU Monitor, if the modem is loaded on 80-100%, Try to turn on the "Only" mode. 3G" network-setting.

VoLTE on different models of Xiaomi Redmi: features

Not all Xiaomi Redmi smartphones work the same way with VoLTE.

On Redmi with MIUI Global (e.g. Redmi Note) 11S) Sometimes there is a bug: after turning off VoLTE, you can no longer call through Google Duplex (voice assistant for booking). If this feature is important to you, you should leave VoLTE on.

Alternatives to VoLTE: What to use instead

If VoLTE isn’t right for you, consider alternative ways to improve call quality:

1. Wi-Fi Calling (Wi-Fi Calling)

The technology allows you to call over home or public Wi-Fi, saving mobile traffic.

• 📶 It works even if there is no coverage. 2G/3G/4G.
• 💰 Frequently free roaming (check with the operator).
• 🔊 The sound quality is comparable to VoLTE.

How to turn on: Settings → SIM-map → Wi-Fi Calling → Turn on

2.VoIP-enabled messengers

Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram or Viber can voice over the Internet without depending on the operator.

• 🔴 Requires a stable Internet (minimum 50 Kbps).
• 📱 Battery consumption is higher than normal calls.
• 🔒 Not all messengers encrypt calls (like Facebook Messenger).

Mode "Only" 3G"

If VoLTE causes more problems than benefits, you can force the switch to the Internet. 3G:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-map → Preferred type of network.
2. Choose. 3G (WCDMA).
3. Save and restart the phone.

Note: in this mode, the Internet speed is limited to 42 Mbit / s, and in some regions 3G already disconnected (for example, in Moscow Beeline completely switched to the 4G).

Noise-canceling external headsets

If the main problem is bad sound, buy a headset with cVc technology (clear voice capture), for example:

• 🎧 Xiaomi Mi Noise Cancelling Earphones (from 1,500) ₽).
• 🎤 JBL Tune 220TWS (call-to-be).
• 📱 Wireless headphones Redmi Buds 4 (supports) AAC purely).

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If you frequently call in areas with poor coverage (metro, underground parking), the best alternative to VoLTE is a combination of Wi-Fi Calling. + VoIP messenger, which guarantees connectivity even where there's no cellular network.

FAQ: Frequent questions about VoLTE on Xiaomi Redmi