Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is one of the most popular mid-range devices, but even it has a communication module malfunction. Users often face a situation where the phone is stuck on 3G or H+, ignoring the available high-speed LTE coverage. This can occur due to software failure, firmware features or signal instability in a particular location, in which case it becomes necessary to force the device to switch to 4G mode only.
Usually, the system chooses the optimal network type, but MIUI algorithms don't always work correctly. For example, with a weak LTE signal, a phone may prefer a more stable but slower 3G rather than a fourth-generation tower connection. To remedy this, there are hidden engineering menus and special codes that give the user full control of the radio module.
In this article, we will take a closer look at all the safe ways to shift the priority of networks. We will look at the standard settings, the use of secret codes to access the engineering menu and diagnostic methods. SIM-It is important to understand that interfering with the radio module requires care, as incorrect settings can temporarily deprive you of voice communication.
Checking the basic network settings
Before we go into complex methods and hidden menus, we need to make sure that the basic parameters in the system are configured correctly. Often the problem is not the hardware, but that the network type selection menu has an automatic mode with low priority. LTE. First, go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
Select a SIM card that has problems and look for Network Type. Make sure it has a Prefer LTE value. If it's 3G or 2G, the phone won't be able to physically connect to the fourth generation towers, even if they're in the immediate vicinity. Also check if the "Use Default Data" option is activated for the desired SIM.
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If you use two of them SIM-In some modes, the Redmi Note 8 Pro modem may not give the maximum speed to both cards at the same time due to the limitations of the MediaTek Helio chipset. G90T.
It is not superfluous to check the settings of the access point (APN). Wrong parameters APN This can cause the Internet to work slowly or not at all, even if you have an icon. 4G. Go to the access point menu and select Reset to default settings.This action often solves connection problems after changing the operator or plan.
Use of the Engineering Menu through Code
The most effective way to make the phone work exclusively in fourth-generation mode is to use an engineering menu. In devices based on MediaTek processors, which includes the Redmi Note 8 Pro, access to these settings is often hidden from the average user.
Open the Phone app and dial ##4636##. If the code is right for your firmware version, the Testing menu will open. Select Phone information. Here you will see a lot of technical parameters and signal statistics.
☑️ Actions in the check menu
Find a drop-down list called Set preferred network type, where you select the LTE Only option. After that, the network icon in the status bar should change, and the phone will forcibly start looking only for LTE towers. If there is no such item on the list, try to choose LTE/TD-SCDMA or a similar option with the LTE prefix.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing a regime LTE Only you may lose the ability to make and receive regular voice calls if your carrier does not support VoLTE technology. 2G/3G You're not going to be able to call me!
Set priorities through the hidden MIUI menu
In some versions of the MIUI shell, the standard code may not work or hide the desired options, in which case you can try to activate the extended settings menu through system applications, which is less invasive, but also allows you to control the behavior of the modem.
Try searching for settings with the word “LTE” or “Network.” Sometimes the system suggests enabling “Network Acceleration” or “Enhanced 4G.” There is also a method of activating through the Service and Feedback app, where you can find hidden switches in the Feedback section, but they are not available on all firmware.
Another option is to use the application MTK The Engineering Mode, which you can find in the Play Market, provides a graphical interface to manage the same parameters as the code entry. → BandMode and select LTE Only or LTE/WCDMA.
What if the code doesn't work?
This is the standard behavior of the system, which is designed to return the device to safe mode. You will have to repeat the procedure every time you turn on the smartphone, if you do not fix the settings through third-party utilities with root rights, which is not recommended for ordinary users.
Comparison of modem modes
Understanding the difference between network modes will help you choose the best option for your situation. Not always LTE Only is the best solution, especially if you often move between areas with different coverage.
| Rey's work. | Description | Impact on the battery | Call stability |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTE Only | The phone only catches 4G. If there is no signal, the connection disappears completely. | High (constant search) | Only through VoLTE |
| LTE/3G/2G (Auto) | The phone switches between standards. | Medium. | Tall. |
| 3G Only | Forced work in third generation networks. | Low. | Tall. |
| 2G Only | It's only GSM. The Internet is going to be very slow. | Minimum | Maximum |
As you can see from the table, LTE Only is only useful if you are in a zone of confident 4G reception, but the phone stubbornly holds 3G. In urban conditions, this can give you an increase in speed. However, on a trip out of town, it is better to return automatic mode so as not to be left without communication in the “dead zone” for LTE.
Also, keep in mind that a constant search for the network in 4G Only mode with a weak signal can lead to accelerated battery discharge. The Redmi Note 8 Pro modem will run at its limit, trying to hold a connection to a remote tower.
Solving problems with SIM-map-and-operator
Sometimes the reason for the lack of 4G is not the phone settings, but the SIM card itself or the operator’s tariff, and if the old SIM card is cut with scissors, it may not work properly with modern communication standards, in which case it is recommended to replace the plastic in the operator’s cabin.
Check if your plan supports LTE. Some old archival rates may not have access to fourth-generation networks by default. Also make sure that 4G is activated in your personal account. Some carriers have a separate option to enable.
⚠️ Note: If after replacing the SIM card and checking the tariff 4G It didn't appear in any place where other phones are caught, perhaps a problem in the smartphone's antenna module.The Redmi Note 8 Pro has a complex antenna design, and the fall could have disrupted the plume's contact.
Be sure to check your data roaming settings if you are overseas or in a region with partner networks coverage. The data roaming slider must be activated on the mobile network menu, otherwise the phone may block the connection to other people's towers, even if they provide 4G.
Resetting network settings as a solution method
If no menu manipulation works, there may be configuration errors in the system, resetting the network settings returns all connectivity settings (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile network) to factory values, and it won't delete your personal data, photos, or contacts.
To perform the reset, go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth. Press Reset and confirm the action. Once the reboot is done, the phone will re-register on the operator’s network and the access point settings will be updated automatically.
This method is especially effective after a MIUI firmware update, when old configuration files may conflict with new system rules, often a simple step that brings 4G back to a stable place where complex engineering codes are powerless.
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Network reset is a safe and often effective procedure that eliminates modem configuration software conflicts without losing user data.