Why Xiaomi 9 owners want to hide the number and when it wonβt work
Hiding a number on Xiaomi 9 (codenamed Cepheus) is a challenge that users have for a variety of reasons, from wanting to remain anonymous when calling customer service to having to bypass carrier locking. However, not everyone knows that the methods of masking the number depend on MIUI firmware, Android version and even the policy of the mobile operator. For example, on Xiaomi 9 with global MIUI 14 firmware based on Android 13, the standard settings may differ from the Chinese version of MIUI 12.5.
It is important to understand: some operators (for example, Tele2 or Yota) ignore the request to hide the number if you have a fixed-identity tariff connected, and the cover-up won't work when you call emergency numbers (112, 102) Or if the subscriber uses a number detector with the operator's database, and before you start settings, check if your tariff supports this function - sometimes it's enough to send it. USSD-request *111*088# (for MegaFon or *105# (Beeline).
In this article, weβll look at all the current ways, from built-in MIUI features to circumventing restrictions through the engineering menu. And if youβre using the Xiaomi 9 Pro 5G or Xiaomi 9 SE, note that on these models, the path to settings may differ due to different chipsets (Snapdragon 855 vs Snapdragon 712).
Method 1: Hiding a number through standard MIUI settings
The easiest method is to use built-in MIUI options. It works on most firmware versions, but may not be available on custom builds (e.g. xiaomi.eu or PixelExperience).
- Open the phone application (pipe icon).
- Slip on three dots in the upper right corner and select Settings.
- Go to the section Additional settings β Call settings.
- Find Subscriber Identification or Additional settings (name depends on MIUI version).
- Choose Hide the number or Disallow.
If this is not the case, try an alternative route:
- π± Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [Yours. SIM] β Additional settings β Subscriber identification
- π On some firmware, the option is hidden in Settings β Annexes β Phone. β Permits β Additional call settings
Make sure that SIM-card|Check the balance (at some rates, hiding is paid)|Reboot your phone after the changes|Call another number to check the result.-->
Limitation: This only works for outgoing calls, and when incoming, your number will still be visible if the caller is saved in your contacts or uses a determinant.
Method 2: USSD-codes for hiding numbers (by operators)
Every mobile operator in Russia and CIS supports USSD-These codes work independently of the phone model, but may require confirmation through the phone. SMS Or a call for support. Below are the current commands for popular operators:
| Operator. | Code for concealment | Code for cancellation | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | *31# in front of the number | #31# | It doesn't work at all rates. |
| Beeline | 31[number]# | #31# | May require the connection of the service "AntiAON" |
| MegaFon | *31# or *222*1# | #31# | Corporate tariffs are not available |
| Tele2 | *31# | #31# | The cover-up is only in effect for 1 hour. |
| Yota | *301# | #301# | Requires SMS confirmation |
Example of use: to call +79123456789 with a hidden number on MegaFon, dial *31#079123456789# and click "Call".
β οΈ Note: Xiaomi 9 with firmware MIUI 12 and below USSD-The codes may not work because of a bug in the Phone app, in which case use a third-party dialing app, such as Truecaller or ExDialer.
MTS|Beeline|MegaFon|Tele2|Yota|Other-->
Method 3: Engineering menu (for advanced users)
If standard methods donβt work, you can try to activate the hidden number through the engineering menu, which is suitable for the Xiaomi 9 based on the Snapdragon 855, but requires caution β wrong actions can disrupt the network.
Instructions:
- Open the Phone app and dial ##4636##.
- In the menu that opens, select Phone Information.
- Scroll down to the Network Settings section.
- Find the Minimized Mode Preference or CLIR setting.
- Set the value of Enabled or On.
If this item is not available, try the alternative code:
##86583## β Test Menu β Network Setting β CLIR β Enableβ οΈ Note: On some versions MIUI The engineering menu is locked, and unlocking it may require unlocking the bootloader or installing a patch through Magisk, which cancels the warranty and increases the risk of the device being "bricked.
What to do if the engineering menu is not opened?
Method 4: Applications for hiding numbers
If the built-in methods don't work, you can use third-party applications, which are called by a number-shift server, and popular options are:
- π Burner β Creates temporary numbers for calls (paid but reliable).
- π Hushed β offers virtual numbers with a selection of country code.
- π TextNow β US/Canada toll free numbers (suitable for international calls).
- π‘οΈ CoverMe Private Call β Encrypts calls and hides the number.
Example of Burner setup:
- Install the app from Google Play.
- Register and select a temporary number.
- In the settings, specify that you want to hide the main number.
- Make calls through the application interface.
Cons: Most of these apps require payment, and free versions limit conversation time, and the quality of communication depends on the Internet connection β on Xiaomi 9 with a weak 4G signal, calls can be interrupted.
π‘
If you make frequent calls abroad, use VoIP-enabled apps (like Skype or Zoom) that allow you to call landlines with hidden caller IDs over the Internet, saving you money on roaming.
Method 5: Reset your network settings (if nothing helps)
In rare cases, hiding a number doesn't work because of a failure in the communication module settings, so resetting the network settings will help, and Importantly, after this procedure, you have to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords and configure your APNs.
How to reset:
- Go to Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Slip on Network Settings Reset (or Wi-Fi, Mobile Network, and Bluetooth Reset).
- Confirm the action and restart the phone.
- After turning on, repeat the number hiding setting (Method 1 or 2).
β οΈ Attention: Xiaomi 9 with two SIM-If you have different operators, you may need to manually adjust the card after the procedure. APN For each of them. APN For popular operators, you can find the site 4PDA.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even after you set it up properly, hiding a number may not work, and here are the typical reasons and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Number visible despite settings | Operator locks CLIR | Call in support and request the activation of the service "AntiAON" |
| USSD-codes don't work | Firmware blocks commands | Use the USSD Runner app from Google Play |
| Hiding works once again | Conflict with the determining application | Turn off Truecaller or GetContact in the background |
| No "Subscriber Identity" item | An outdated version of MIUI | Update the firmware through Settings β About the phone β System update |
If neither of these methods worked, check if you have a number detector or an operator antispam service, which can automatically reveal your number regardless of your phone settings.
π‘
On Xiaomi 9 with MIUI 13+ firmware, hiding the number through the settings is more stable than on older versions. If you havenβt updated your phone in a long time, install the latest firmware first, and then repeat the settings.