How to completely disable the answering machine on Xiaomi Mi 9: 3 working methods

Xiaomi Mi 9 is one of the most popular flagships of the brand, but its functionality sometimes puts users at a loss. For example, the built-in answering machine can activate spontaneously after updating MIUI or when you connect the headset. If you are tired of listening to a standard voice message or you just want to get rid of unnecessary functionality – this guide will help you figure out how to disable the answering machine on Xiaomi 9 once and for all.

Unlike newer models (such as the Mi 11 or Redmi Note 10), where voicemail settings are placed in a separate menu, on the Mi 9, the path to shutdown can vary depending on the firmware version. MIUI, Alternative solutions for cases where standard methods do not work.

Why does the answering machine turn on on itself?

Before you turn off the feature, it is worthwhile to understand what exactly activates it. On the Xiaomi Mi 9, the answering machine can start for several reasons:

• 📱 Update MIUI: After installing the new firmware version (especially from 12 to 13), the settings are reset to factory ones, and the answering machine is turned on by default.
• 🎧 Bluetooth headset connectivity: Some headphone models (such as Xiaomi AirDots) automatically activate voicemail when missed calls.
• 📶 Operator problems: Mobile networks (MTS, Beeline, Tele2) sometimes force voice mail service, even if you did not order it.
• 🔄 Communication module failure: If the smartphone overheats or overloads, random functions, including an answering machine, can trigger.

If you notice that the problem occurred after a specific action (for example, connecting a headset or updating), this will help you choose the most effective way to turn off. For example, for MIUI 14 and the newer path to settings is different from the older versions.

Method 1: Disconnect via standard phone settings

The easiest method is to use the built-in MIUI menu, which is suitable for most users and does not require additional applications.

1. Open the Phone app (the tube icon on the home screen).
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Settings.
3. Go to Voicemail or Autoresponder (the name may vary depending on the version of MIUI).
4. Move the slider Turn the answering machine on the off position.
5. Save the changes and restart the smartphone (recommended for settings).

If you don't have Voicemail on your menu, you're managing it at the operator level, and then you go to Method 3.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (For example, Global ROM for the European market) the voicemail item may be hidden, in which case try using hidden settings or contact the operator.

Method 2: Use of an engineering menu (for advanced users)

If the standard path didn't work, you can try turning off the answering machine through the engineering menu, which is a method that requires caution, because wrong actions can disrupt the communication module.

Instructions:

1. Open the phone app and enter the combination: ##4636##
2. In the menu that opens, select Phone Information (or Phone Information).
3. Scroll down to the Set preferred network type block and find the Voicemail bar.
4. Click on it and enter any non-existent number (such as 000) in the Voicemail number field.
5. Save the changes and restart the device.

This trick tricks the system into thinking that the voicemail number is invalid, and once it's rebooted, the answering machine will stop activating, but on some MIUI 14+ firmware, this method may not work because of changes in the architecture of the communication module.

Method 3: Disconnecting the service from the operator

If the answering machine is activated at the level SIM-The card, its settings can be controlled by the mobile operator, in which case you can only turn off the function through your personal account or a call for support.

If USSD-The commands didn't work, contact the operator through the official application (My MTS, My Beeline, etc.) or visit the communication salon. Make sure you turn off the voicemail service, not the answering machine in your smartphone - these are different things!

⚠️ Note: Some carriers (e.g. Yota or virtual carriers like Tinkoff Mobile) do not support USSD-In this case, the shutdown is possible only through online chat or a call in support.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Applications

If built-in methods don't work, you can use third-party utilities, such as the Voicemail Disabler app (available on Google Play) that allows you to force the system-level answering machine to be disabled, but note that root rights may be required to work.

Alternative annexes:

• 📱 NoVoicemail – blocks the redirection of calls to voice mail.
• 🔧 MIUI Hidden Settings – Reveals Xiaomi’s Hidden Settings, Including Autoresponder Management.
• 🛠️ Tasker – allows you to create a rule for automatic call reset bypassing voice mail (requires settings).

Check the reviews and ratings of the app before installing it — some utilities may contain ads or request unnecessary permissions, and remember that using root rights deprives you of warranty on the device.

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If you don’t want to install third-party apps, try temporarily disabling them. SIM-If so, the problem is on the operator's side.

What do you do if nothing helps?

If you’ve tried all of these methods, but the answering machine is still activated, the problem may be deeper:

• 🔄 Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Network resets. This will delete all stored Wi-Fi networks and mobile settings, but can fix the failure.
• 📥 Firmware rollback: If the problem has appeared after the update MIUI, Try to return to the previous version via Fastboot (instructions are available on the forum) 4PDA).
• 🛠️ Contact the service center: If the answering machine is turned on due to a hardware failure (for example, damage to the communication module), you will need a diagnosis in the official Xiaomi service.

In the extreme, you can consider the option of replacement. SIM-Cards – sometimes the problem lies in the card itself, especially if it is old or damaged.

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If the answering machine only appears when you connect a Bluetooth headset, try resetting the headset settings or updating its firmware (if possible).

FAQ: Frequent questions on the answering machine on Xiaomi Mi 9