How to enable call retention on Xiaomi phone: instructions for MIUI 12/13/14

The call retention feature on Xiaomi smartphones allows you to temporarily pause your current conversation to take an incoming call or switch to another contact. This is an indispensable tool for those who often communicate on the phone for work or personal purposes. However, in the latest versions of MIUI (especially 13 and 14), retention settings can be hidden or work differently than on stock Android. In this article, we will discuss all the ways to activate the feature, from standard settings to hidden commands for the engineering menu.

It is important to understand that retention is not only a firmware issue, but also a carrier-specific one, and some mobile networks (e.g. virtual operators) may block this option at the level of the service provider. SIM-If after all the manipulations, the function does not work, check its support with your provider. We will also consider alternative solutions if standard retention is not available.

What is call retention and why is it necessary

Call Hold is a telephone function that allows you to:

• 📞 Suspend current conversation to answer second incoming call (if call waiting is maintained).
• 🔄 Switch between two active calls (e.g., consulting with a colleague while talking to a client).
• 🎧 Use a headset or Bluetooth headphones without interrupting communication.
• 📱 Restore connection after temporary network loss (if operator supports Call Resume).

Xiaomi’s retention is implemented via the 3GPP TS 22.030 protocol, but its operation depends on:

• 📶 Network type: in 4G VoLTE and 5G function is more stable than in 2G/3G.
• 📱 Versions MIUI: firmware MIUI 12 settings could be in another section.
• 🔧 Operator policies: Some tariffs (e.g., "minimum" packages) disable retention.

If you’ve used other brands’ smartphones before (like Samsung or iPhone), you’ll notice that the retention interface looks different on Xiaomi. There’s no separate “hold” button when you call, instead using a keyboard or gesture combination.

Where is the retention setting in MIUI

In the latest versions MIUI 13/14 The direct call retention switch from the settings menu has disappeared. Instead, the function is controlled automatically through the settings SIM-To activate the card:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to section. SIM-maps and mobile networks.
3. Choose yours. SIM-card (if two of them).
4. Switch to Additional Settings (or Call Settings in older versions).
5. Find the Call Hold option and turn it on.

If the item is not on the list, it means that:

• ❌ Your operator does not support the function (check on the provider’s website).
• ❌ SIM-Card not activated for retention services (may be required) USSD-request).
• ❌ You have custom firmware installed (like LineageOS) where the function is disabled.

On some models (such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO F3), the path to settings may be different. If you don't find the "Retention" option, try an alternative method through the engineering menu - read more about it further.

How to Enable Retention through Engineering Menu (For Advanced)

If the standard settings don’t work, you can try activating retention via the Engineering Mode, which is suitable for advanced users, as incorrect actions can disrupt the network.

Instructions:

1. Open the phone app and enter the combination: ##4636##
2. In the menu that appears, select Phone Information.
3. Scroll down to the Call Hold block.
4. If you have Disabled status, tap it to change to Enabled.
5. Go back and restart the phone.

On some Xiaomi models, for example, POCO X3 NFC) The engineering menu may not display the retention option. USSD-operator code.

After activation through the engineering menu, check the function:

1. Call another phone.
2. During the conversation, click Add Call (+ icon).
3. The current call must automatically go into retention.

USSD-codes for checking and activating retention

If none of the previous methods worked, try using them. USSD-They send a request directly to the operator to check or enable the service. Below are the current codes for popular Russian providers:

Once you enter the activation code, you will receive an SMS with confirmation. If the service is paid (rarely, but it happens), the operator will notify you of the tariff.

⚠️ Attention: USSD-If the code does not work, check the current combination on your operator's website or through support (for example, MTS has 0890, Beeline has 0611).

What to do if the call retention is not working

If you have completed all the steps but the function is still inactive, check the following points:

• 🔄 Phone reboot: sometimes a reboot is required after changing the settings.
• 📶 Network type: The retention may not work in 2G Or if you're on a weak signal. 4G customized SIM-map.
• 🔧 Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings → SIM-map → Resetting mobile network settings.
• 📱 Update MIUI: Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.

If the problem persists, try:

1. Install an alternative call app (e.g. Google Phone from Play Market).
2. Insert SIM-card to another phone and check the retention there (this will help identify the problem on the operator's side).
3. Contact the communication salon with a request to re-release SIM-Card (sometimes the problem is in the old card).

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If you have a two-sim Xiaomi, try activating the retention separately for each. SIM-Sometimes the function only works on the main slot (Slot 1).

On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T or Redmi K50) The problem may be VoLTE. Try disabling this option in the settings. SIM-maps and reboot phone.

Alternative ways to hold a call on Xiaomi

If standard retention is not available, workarounds can be used:

• 📱 Conference-Conference: Instead of holding, add a second caller to the conference and then turn it off (actually it's a simulation of holding).
• 🔄 Quick switch: Press Add Call, then immediately complete the second call – the first one will automatically recover.
• 🎧 Bluetooth Headset: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi AirDots) support retention through proprietary software.
• 📲 Caller apps: WhatsApp, Telegram or Skype have built-in retention for VoIP calls.

Business users can use a virtual PBX solution (such as Zadarma or Mango Office) to offer advanced retention, forwarding and recording capabilities directly in the mobile app.

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If you have a corporate SIM-map, check with IT-Department, whether the retention of the call at the level of corporate policy is blocked.

Xiaomi models with retention settings

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique nuances when activating retention. Here's a quick overview:

For devices on MediaTek (such as Redmi 9A or POCO M3), additional setup may be required via MTK Engineer Mode. Download the app from the Play Market, select MTK Settings → Call → Call Hold, and activate the option.

FAQ: Frequent questions about holding a call on Xiaomi