VoLTE in Xiaomi smartphones: what it is, how it works and why to include in 2026

Have you ever noticed that while you're on the phone, the Internet suddenly slows down, and when you're done calling, your browser pages are late in updating? Or that your voice sounds like it's talking from a barrel? Your Xiaomi probably doesn't use VoLTE technology -- and it's a waste of its own. This feature, which has long become the standard for modern smartphones, dramatically changes the quality of voice communication, but many users don't even know it exists.

In this article, we will not only explain what VoLTE is in a Xiaomi phone, but also show you how to turn it on (even if the option is hidden in the settings), why it may not work for your carrier, and how it differs from regular calls through your phone. 2G/3G. And then we'll go through the myths of whether VoLTE is actually eating away at the battery or requiring a separate charge from a mobile provider.

If you are using a Redmi smartphone, POCO or the flagship series Xiaomi 13/14, This information is especially relevant – modern chipsets (for example, Snapdragon). 8 Gen 2 or Dimensity 9000) They're optimized for VoLTE, but by default, the feature is often disabled. 12 Support the technology, but operators don’t automatically activate it.

VoLTE – what are these simple words?

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) — This is a fourth generation voice transmission technology (4G LTE). Unlike traditional calls that “switch” the phone to the network. 2G or 3G (And because of this, the Internet is falling, VoLTE allows you to talk and use mobile Internet simultaneously, without losing speed.

Imagine this situation: you're watching a YouTube video, and suddenly you get a call. Without VoLTE, your smartphone has to jump over the edge. 4G on 3G/2G, why:

• 📞 The call is connected longer (up to 5-7 seconds vs. 1-2 with VoLTE).
• 🌐 The Internet is shut down or severely slowed down.
• 🔊 Voice quality deteriorates (noise, echo, cliffs).

With VoLTE, it's different: the call goes the same way. 4G-The Internet, which means:

• ⚡ Instant connection (as in messengers).
• 🎧 Voice quality in HD (broadband audio codec AMR-WB).
• 📶 No “switching” between networks – saves battery power.

Important: VoLTE is not the same as VoIP (calls via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.). VoIP works through Internet applications, and VoLTE is a mobile communication standard supported by operators at the level of the Internet. SIM-map.

How to know if your Xiaomi VoLTE supports

The vast majority of Xiaomi smartphones released after 2018 support VoLTE.

Models with official support (100% VoLTE work):

• 📱 All flagships: Xiaomi 12/13/14, Mi 11, Mix 4.
• 📱 Redmi Note Series Starting with Note 8 Pro (2019).
• 📱 Lineages POCO F and POCO X (e.g, POCO F5, X5 Pro).
• 📱 Budget models: Redmi 10/12, POCO M5.

2. models with “gray” support (depending on firmware and operator):

• ⚠️ Old smartphones (Redmi) 5/6, Mi A2) — VoLTE can only work after manual activation.
• ⚠️ Chinese versions (for example, for the market) CN) — Often require a change in the region of the firmware.

To check the support accurately, do the following:

1. Open Settings → About the phone → All the characteristics.
2. Find the Network or Modem option – there should be VoLTE strings or LTE.
3. Or enter the "VoLTE" request in the settings search.

Step-by-step: how to enable VoLTE on Xiaomi

If your smartphone supports the technology but it is disabled, follow this instruction. MIUI (for example, MIUI 14 and HyperOS menu slightly different).

Method 1: Through standard settings

1. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose yours. SIM-card (if there are several).
3. Tap on the network type or preferred network type.
4. Choose 4G (preferably)/LTE or 4G/3G/2G (auto).
5. Go back and find the VoLTE switch (or Improved Calls, HD-call-up).
6. Activate it.

Method 2: Through the Engineering Menu (if not in the settings)

If there is no VoLTE option, try turning it on through the hidden menu:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Enter the code: ##4636###.
3. Select Phone Information.
4. Scroll down to Network Type Installation.
5. Select LTE only or LTE/UMTS auto.
6. Go back and check if the VoLTE provisioned (should be Yes) items have appeared.

Make a test call.

Make sure that an icon appears in the status bar HD VoLTE

Try using the internet while you’re talking (for example, open YouTube)

Check the quality of your voice (should be cleaner, no noise)

-->

Method 3: Update the firmware

If VoLTE is not enabled, your version may be MIUI It's outdated:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Download and install the latest version.
3. After the update, check for the VoLTE option again.

💡

If VoLTE calls stop working after you turn on, try restarting your phone or temporarily disabling the feature. Sometimes it takes up to 24 hours for the operator to activate the service on your phone. SIM-map.

Why VoLTE may not work for Xiaomi

Even if your smartphone supports the technology, and you've enabled the settings correctly, VoLTE may not work. Here are the main reasons and solutions:

Beeline and Tele2 operators in Russia have officially disabled VoLTE support for most regions since 2023. MTS and MegaFon continue to support the technology, but may require replacement SIM-card USIM.

What if the operator does not support VoLTE?

• 🔄 Try using it. SIM-card of another operator (for example, MegaFon or MTS).
• 📶 Enable Wi-Fi Calling (WIFI Calling) as an Alternative.
• 📱 Install JioCall or Google Voice for VoIP calls.

💡

If your Xiaomi is purchased in China (version) CN), VoLTE may not work with Russian SIM-And even with the right settings, the solution is firmware on the global version (Global/EU).

VoLTE vs Wi-Fi Calling: What’s Best for Xiaomi

Many people confuse VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling, but these are two different technologies with different advantages:

When to use VoLTE:

• 📶 You often call on the road or in places with good coverage 4G.
• 🔋 It is important to save battery power.
• 🎤 Voice quality is critical (for example, for work).

When to choose Wi-Fi Calling:

• 🏠 You often call at home or office with a poor mobile signal.
• 🌍 Traveling abroad (cheaper than roaming).
• 📵 Your operator does not support VoLTE.

On Xiaomi smartphones, both functions can be used simultaneously. MIUI 14 has the option to Prioritize Wi-Fi Calling, which automatically selects the best channel.

Myths about VoLTE: debunking misconceptions

There are many myths surrounding VoLTE technology, and we'll look at some of the most common ones.

Myth 1: VoLTE drains the battery quickly

⚠️ Note: VoLTE actually saves charge, as it does not require constant switching between the two. 4G and 3G. However, if the signal 4G So, if you're weak, the smartphone module is running at the power limit, which is what drives you up.

Myth 2: VoLTE paid

No, operators don't charge extra for using VoLTE. This is part of your voice rate. However, roaming may have different rules, check with the operator.

Myth 3: VoLTE only works on new smartphones

The technology is supported even on budget models Xiaomi 2019-2020 release (for example, Redmi Note 8).

Myth 4: VoLTE is interfering with internet speed

On the contrary: without VoLTE when calling the Internet “falls” to the Internet 2G/3G, And with VoLTE, you stay on. 4G. The speed may decrease slightly (as part of the channel is voiced), but not critically.

Myth 5: VoLTE doesn’t work with two SIM-map

On most Xiaomi smartphones with two slots, VoLTE is supported only on the main one. SIM-card (slot 1). Second SIM The exception is flagships like Xiaomi 13 Ultra, where VoLTE can work on both. SIM (but depends on the operator).

VoLTE in roaming: what you need to know

If you travel frequently, VoLTE can be both a lifesaver and a headache.

1.Roaming support

• ✈️ In the EU and the US, VoLTE works almost everywhere (operators are required to maintain the technology by law).
• ✈️ In Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, India) VoLTE may require local SIM-map.
• ✈️ In Russia, since 2023, VoLTE roaming works only at MTS and MegaFon (and then not with all partners).

2. Roaming settings

To enable VoLTE to operate abroad:

1. Make sure that data roaming is enabled (Settings) → SIM-map → Data roaming).
2. Enable Automatic Network Selection.
3. Check whether your operator supports VoLTE in the host country (information on the operator’s website).

3. Alternatives if VoLTE does not work

• 📞 Use Wi-Fi Calling (if you have Wi-Fi access).
• 💬 Go to messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram).
• 📱 Buy a local. SIM-card with VoLTE support.

⚠️ Note: In some countries (e.g. UAE or China) VoLTE requires registration IMEI If you are taking Xiaomi on a trip, check this point in advance.

FAQ: Frequent questions about VoLTE on Xiaomi