You noticed a new “VoLTE” icon in the status bar next to the network indicator on your Xiaomi smartphone and wondered what it means? This acronym has become increasingly common on devices, but not all users understand its purpose and benefits. In this article, we will discuss in detail what VoLTE is, why it is activated on Xiaomi, how to turn it on or off, and solve possible problems with the technology.
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is a fourth-generation (4G) voice standard that provides higher call quality, faster connectivity and the ability to talk and use mobile internet at high speeds at the same time. On Xiaomi smartphones, the VoLTE icon appears when the device is connected to a 4G network and the operator supports this technology, but not all users know that it requires not only support from the phone, but also the appropriate settings in the firmware and mobile operator.
What is VoLTE and why is it needed in Xiaomi?
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is a standard for voice calls over 4G LTE networks, unlike traditional calls that use 2G/3G networks. The main advantage is that voice is transmitted in the form of data packets, like Internet traffic, which allows:
- 🎙️ Improve sound quality – the voice becomes clearer, without noise and interference, thanks to the codec HD Voice (broadband sound).
- ⚡ Reduce connection time – the call connects almost instantly, without delay.
- 📶 Use it. 4G during the conversation - before when the phone was called, the smartphone switched to 3G, Internet speeds are still high.
- 🔋 Save battery power – no need to switch between networks.
On Xiaomi smartphones, the VoLTE icon appears in the top notification panel when the device successfully connected to the operator’s network with support for this technology. However, not all models and not all operators support VoLTE. For example, in Russia, the technology is actively implemented by MTS, Beeline, MegaFon and Tele2, but the coverage may vary depending on the region.
It’s important to understand that VoLTE is not just about “enhanced calls,” but is part of the evolution of mobile networks. In the future, carriers plan to completely abandon 2G/3G in favor of 4G/5G, so VoLTE support will become mandatory for all smartphones, including Xiaomi.
What does the VoLTE icon look like on Xiaomi and where to look for it?
The VoLTE icon on Xiaomi smartphones can be displayed differently depending on the device model and the MIUI firmware version. Most often it appears in the top notification bar (status bar) next to the network indicator.
- 📱 The letter designation is the inscription “VoLTE” or «HD» (on some models).
- 🔄 Icon with tube and antenna – a stylized image resembling a call icon with the addition of a symbol 4G.
- 📶 Combination with 4G — Sometimes the icon appears only when you are actively connected to the network. LTE.
If you can't see the icon, it doesn't always mean that VoLTE isn't working, it might just be hidden in the display settings, to check if it's there:
- Open Settings → Connections and Sharing → Mobile Network.
- Check if the VoLTE switch is on (can be called "Calls") 4G» or «HD-call-up»).
- If the option is active but the icon is not, try rebooting your smartphone.
On some Xiaomi models (such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO X3 Pro), the icon can only appear during an active call. Also, it is worth considering that operators sometimes update the firmware to support VoLTE, so after an update, the icon can appear automatically.
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If the VoLTE icon flashes or disappears, check the 4G coverage in your area – the network may be unstable.
How to turn on or off VoLTE on Xiaomi
By default, VoLTE is enabled on most Xiaomi smartphones if the operator supports it, but in some cases it has to be activated manually.
☑️ Enabling VoLTE on Xiaomi
- Update your firmware: Go to Settings → About Phone → Update your system and install the latest updates. Some models (like the Redmi 9A) only get VoLTE support after the update.
- Activate VoLTE in Settings: Open Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Calls. 4G (VoLTE) and switch on the switch. On some firmware, the path may be different: Settings → Connections → Mobile network → Additionally. → VoLTE.
- Check the settings. SIM-Cards: Make sure that SIM-card inserted SIM 1 (on some models, VoLTE only works with the main card). 4G (obsolete SIM may not work).
- Reboot the device: Once VoLTE is enabled, restart the smartphone so that the changes take effect.
If you want to disable VoLTE, simply deactivate the appropriate switch in the settings.
- 🔋 Calls have become faster to drain the battery (rarely, but it happens on older models).
- 📞 There are problems with the quality of communication (interference, cliffs).
- 🌐 The operator does not support the technology in your area.
What to do if VoLTE is not turned on?
Why VoLTE may not work on Xiaomi: common problems
Even if you have enabled VoLTE in your settings, the icon may not appear and calls may remain in 3G format. Here are the main reasons and ways to eliminate them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The VoLTE badge is not displayed | The operator does not support VoLTE in your region. | Check the coverage on the operator’s website or call in support |
| The VoLTE switch is inactive | The outdated MIUI firmware | Update the system to the latest version |
| Calls are interrupted or poor sound quality | Unstable 4G coverage | Switch to 3G manually or change seat |
| VoLTE only works on one of them. SIM-map | Hardware Restriction (e.g. on Redmi 8A) | Use VoLTE only on the main SIM |
One of the most common problems is that there is no VoLTE support on a particular Xiaomi model paired with a specific operator, such as some low-end devices (e.g. Redmi). 7A) It may not support the technology at all frequencies. LTE, In this case, only a replacement of the smartphone or SIM-map.
Another nuance: if you use Xiaomi with custom firmware (like LineageOS), VoLTE may not work due to the lack of certified drivers, in which case you will have to return to the official MIUI or look for special patches for your firmware.
⚠️ Warning: If after turning on VoLTE, the smartphone begins to overheat or discharge quickly, turn off the function and check the device for viruses or background processes consuming resources.
VoLTE vs ViLTE vs VoWiFi: What’s the difference with Xiaomi?
On Xiaomi smartphones, in addition to VoLTE, you can find other acronyms associated with voice transmission.
- 📡 VoLTE (Voice over LTE) — call-in 4G, It requires operator support and coverage LTE.
- 📹 ViLTE (Video over LTE) — High quality video calls through 4G. Xiaomi only works with some operators (for example, MTS).
On most Xiaomi devices, these technologies can be enabled independently, for example, you can use VoLTE for normal calls and VoWiFi at home, where the mobile signal is weak. However, ViLTE will require not only operator support, but also a special application for video calls (for example, MTS Video Calls).
To check what technologies are available on your Xiaomi:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM].
- If you have 4G Calls, 4G Video Calls, and Wi-Fi Calls, your device supports them.
On some models (such as the POCO F3 or Xiaomi 11T), these features may be hidden in additional settings. If you don't see them, try searching for the word "VoLTE" or "Wi-Fi" in your settings.
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VoWiFi is a great solution for places with poor 4G coverage, such as basements or country houses. Calls will go over the Internet, but the number will appear as mobile.
How to check if your Xiaomi VoLTE supports
Not all Xiaomi smartphones support VoLTE, especially older or budget models. To find out if your device is compatible with the technology, use the following methods:
- Check through settings: If in the menu Settings → SIM-Maps and mobile networks have the option "Calls" 4G (VoLTE) means hardware support is available. If there's no point, your model is not compatible.
- Search by model on Xiaomi website: Go to the official Xiaomi website or MIUI forum and find the specifications of your model. The "Network" section should indicate "VoLTE".
- Checking through the engineering menu (for power users): Enter the dial code ##4636##, select Phone Information and look at the line "VoLTE provisioned." If it is "1", support is available.
- Operator consultation: Some carriers (e.g. MegaFon) provide lists of supported devices, and ask them if your Xiaomi model is compatible with their VoLTE network.
If your Xiaomi doesn’t support VoLTE, but you want to improve your call quality, consider alternatives:
- 📞 Use messengers with voice calls (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber).
- 📶 Switch to the switch. 3G for calls (in network settings, select "Only" mode 3G»).
- 🔄 Update your firmware – sometimes VoLTE support is added to new versions MIUI.
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) 5A or Mi A1) activation of VoLTE can lead to problems with the mobile Internet, if after activation it stopped working 4G, Turn off VoLTE and restart the device.
The future of VoLTE: what awaits the technology at Xiaomi
VoLTE technology continues to evolve, and Xiaomi is actively implementing it in its devices, and the following changes are expected in the near future:
- 🌍 Expanding coverage – operators will increase VoLTE support areas, especially in regions.
- 📱 Support on budget models – even the most affordable Xiaomi smartphones (e.g. Redmi) 10A) You will receive updates to work with the technology.
- 🔒 Integration with 5G — Some flagships (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro) support VoNR (Voice over New Radio), which will allow you to call over networks. 5G.
- 🤖 Improving compatibility with custom firmware – the developer community MIUI Works on porting VoLTE to unofficial builds.
With the transition to 5G networks, VoLTE will become even more relevant as operators abandon 2G/3G in favor of more modern standards. Xiaomi users should monitor firmware updates and check for support for new features on their devices.
If you are planning to buy a new Xiaomi smartphone, pay attention to the presence of VoLTE in the specs – this will ensure that your device will be relevant for several more years, and it is worth checking with the operator whether it supports the technology in your region to avoid connection problems.