Why VoLTE raises questions for Xiaomi users
You've probably noticed a mysterious VoLTE option in your Xiaomi settings — it appears in the status bar, then suddenly disappears, and sometimes the phone refuses to call at all without this feature. What is this technology, why operators are actively promoting it, and most importantly, how to turn it off on Xiaomi if it interferes? In this article, we will understand without technical difficulties, but taking into account all the nuances of MIUI firmware.
We will be alerted to the VoLTE (Voice over) LTE) — It's not just "improved calls," as many people think, but it's a complete replacement for outdated voice communications that work through the Internet. 4G-and if your Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 suddenly stopped catching the network after the update, it may be the fault of forced VoLTE, which operators include at the level of the network. SIM-But don't worry, we'll show you how to fix it.
What is VoLTE and why it came to your Xiaomi
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) — This is a fourth generation voice transmission technology (4G), Unlike traditional calls that have been made 2G/3G. The main advantage is that the quality of the connection becomes comparable to the IP-It's a phone system (like WhatsApp), but it works through a normal phone number.
Why VoLTE is actively being implemented by operators:
- 📶 Frequency savings: 2G/3G The network is gradually shut down (in Russia it is planned to be shut down). 2026–2027 years), so votes are transferred to 4G.
- ⚡ Fast connection: the call is set in 1-2 seconds (versus 5-10 seconds in old networks).
- 🔊 Clean sound: codec is used HD Voice (AMR-WB), which removes noise and improves intelligibility.
- 📱 Parallel work: you can call and use mobile Internet at the same time (in the Internet) 3G When the phone rings, the internet goes off).
But why then would Xiaomi users want to disable VoLTE?
- 🔋 Increased battery consumption: module 4G consumes more energy than 2G/3G.
- 📡 Coverage problems: in some regions 4G-Networks are not stable and calls are cut off.
- 🔄 Conflicts with firmware: on custom MIUI (For example, Xiaomi.EU VoLTE may not work properly.
- 💳 Paid fares: some operators charge extra for VoLTE (e.g. roaming).
How to check if VoLTE is enabled on your Xiaomi
Before you turn off the function, make sure it's actually active. There are several ways to check this in MIUI:
Method 1. Through the state string
During the call, look at the top notification panel:
- 📞 If there is an inscription next to the network indicator HD or VoLTE, the function is working.
- 📶 If only displayed 4G without additional icons – VoLTE is disabled.
- 🔄 If the network is switched to the 3G or+ — VoLTE is inactive.
Method 2. Through the Engineering Menu
For advanced users, type ##4636## in your phone number, then go to Phone Information. In the Installed Voice Connection section, you will specify the network type:
- LTE - VoLTE is active.
- UMTS or GSM – 3G/2G is used.
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If the ##4636### code doesn’t work, try the alternative: #86583### (for some Xiaomi models).
Method 3. Through settings SIM-map
Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [choose SIM] → Network type, if there's a item on the list 4G (VoLTE) or LTE/4G/3G/2G with a tick opposite – the function is supported and most likely enabled.
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 (from Redmi 9A to Xiaomi 13 Ultra).
Method 1. Through standard settings (MIUI 12–14)
- Open the Settings.
- Move to the SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose yours. SIM-card (if there are several).
- Press Network Type.
- Choose 3G or 2G over 4G (VoLTE).
- Save the changes and restart the phone.
☑️ Preparing for VoLTE shutdown
Method 2. Through the Engineering Menu (for experienced)
If the standard method didn’t work, try disabling VoLTE through the hidden settings:
- Enter the dialer ##4636##.
- Go to the phone information.
- Scroll down to Install the preferred network type.
- Select LTE/WCDMA/auto (PRL) or WCDMA only.
- Click Update and restart the device.
Method 3: Disconnection via APN (for specific operators)
Some operators (such as MTS or Beeline) link VoLTE to the APN settings to disable:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Access points (APN).
- Select the current APN profile (usually Internet.mts.ru, Internet.beeline.ru, etc.).
- Find the APN type field and remove the ims, xcap, or volte settings from there.
- Save the changes and restart the phone.
What to do if the VoLTE is not shut down?
Table: compatibility of VoLTE with popular Xiaomi models
Not all Xiaomi phones work equally well with VoLTE, and the following is a compatibility table for popular models (the data is relevant for MIUI 14):
| Model phone | Support for VoLTE | Features | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10/11/12 | ✅ Yes. | It works stably, but can conflict with custom firmware. | Turn it off through standard settings. |
| POCO X3/X4/X5 | ✅ Yes. | The POCO X3 Pro may have problems with the microphone when VoLTE. | Check the firmware updates before turning off. |
| Xiaomi 11/12/13 series | ✅ Yes. MIUI 12.5+) | Supports VoNR (5G calls) | Disabling VoLTE can impair the quality of communication. |
| Redmi 9A/9C | ⚠️ Partially. | VoLTE only works with some operators (e.g. MTS). | If you have a connection problem, turn off 4G completely. |
| Xiaomi Mi A3 (Android One) | ❌ No. | In many regions, VoLTE is not supported due to the limitations of Android One. | Use 3G for calls. |
What happens if you turn off VoLTE: pros and cons
The decision to disable VoLTE is always a compromise. Let's look at the implications.
The benefits of shutdown:
- 🔋 Battery savings: module 4G Consumes 10-15% less energy in the mode 3G.
- 📶 Stability of communication: in regions with poor 4G-The call will not be stopped by cover.
- 📱 Compatibility: Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online) are faster in the market 3G.
Cons of shutdown:
- 🔊 Deterioration of sound quality: voice becomes less clear, especially in noisy places.
- ⚡ Longer bell connects: instead of 1-2 seconds you have to wait 5-10 seconds.
- 🌍 Roaming problems: some foreign operators have already turned off 2G/3G.
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If you travel frequently, check if your local carrier supports 3G/2G before turning off VoLTE. In Europe and the US, for example, many networks already only work in 4G/5G.
⚠️ Attention! On some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 8 Pro) mobile Internet may disappear after VoLTE is turned off. In this case, return the settings to the original state or contact the service center.
Alternative solutions: if VoLTE does not turn off
There are times when VoLTE continues to work despite all the manipulations.
1. Replacement SIM-map
Modern. SIM-Cards (especially eSIM or nano-SIM of the new sample) often have a VoLTE profile tied:
- 🔄 Insert the old one. SIM-card (if any).
- 📱 Contact the salon for a replacement with "not"-VoLTE" SIM (check with the operator).
- 🌐 Use the virtual SIM (For example, through the Dent application, where VoLTE is disabled by default.
2. Use of third-party applications
Applications like Network Signal Guru or 4G Switcher allow you to force switch network types, bypassing the limitations of MIUI.
- ⚠️ Root rights required.
- ⚠️ Could break the warranty.
- ⚠️ Not working. MIUI 14 with the latest security updates.
3. Resetting network settings
If VoLTE turned on on on its own after the update, try resetting the network settings:
- Go to Settings → About Phone → Settings Reset → Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings.
- Confirm the reset.
- After restarting manually select the 3G network type.
⚠️ Attention, on the dual phones. SIM-cards (for example, Xiaomi) 12T) disabling VoLTE on one SIM You can automatically turn it on to the second card!