VoLTE on Xiaomi: how to turn off the function and why you need it

Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones are set to use all available communication technologies by default to ensure maximum call quality. One such feature is VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which allows high-quality voice transmission over fourth-generation networks. However, not all regions have operators consistently support this technology, and sometimes users face increased battery consumption or inability to use mobile Internet during a conversation.

Many device owners face a situation where the HD or VoLTE icon burns constantly, even if the service is not paid for or the network coverage leaves much to be desired. The standard interface of the MIUI or HyperOS shell often lacks a switch to deactivate this option, which creates the false impression that it is impossible to change the settings, but in fact access to them is hidden in the engineering menu or special codes.

In this article, we will look at proven ways to disable technology across different firmware versions, how to activate the engineer’s hidden menu, what codes to use for your operator, and what to do if standard methods don’t work. Understanding these settings will help optimize the communication module and avoid problems with incorrect switching between 3G and 4G.

What is VoLTE and why it should be turned off

Voice over LTE is designed to deliver voice calls over high-speed 4G networks, bypassing switching to 2G or 3G standards. In theory, this provides crystal clear sound and instant connection. However, in practice, the implementation of the feature on Xiaomi smartphones often depends on the specific operator and region. If the operator has not certified the device or in your area poor LTE coverage, the phone will constantly look for a signal, which leads to rapid heating of the case.

The main reason users are looking for a way to turn off VoLTE on Xiaomi is due to background issues. A smartphone can stick in network search mode, which critically affects autonomy. In addition, in some cases, when an incoming call, the Internet connection can be interrupted or greatly lost in speed if the technology is not working correctly. Disabling the feature returns the device to standard mode, where voice is transmitted through 2G/3G channels, and the Internet remains on 4G (with Dual SIM support).

It is important to note that a complete shutdown of the function may be required when using SIM-Cards of certain operators that do not support IMS-profiles on unofficial firmware. HD It may burn, but the calls won't go through. 3G Preferred or disabling VoLTE solves the problem of communication stability.

Checking operator support and basic settings

Before you go into hidden menus, make sure that the problem is with the phone settings, not the operator's services. Some users mistakenly believe that burning an icon means the technology is working, although in fact it may just be an indication of the possibility.

Go to the Settings section, then select SIM-You can choose an active SIM card here, and if your carrier supports the feature and it's activated on the tariff, you'll see a Use VoLTE switch. If the switch is not available, it means that the system has hidden it due to regional limitations or the lack of operator configuration in the database. MIUI.

It's also worth checking if the service is activated on the provider side. Often, subscribers try to turn off the feature on the phone, although it's easy enough to send it to the phone. USSD-request to deactivate the service on the operator's server. HD It should disappear on its own after restarting the device.

Activation of the Engineering Menu through Codes

The most reliable and secure way to manage hidden functions is to use an engineering menu, which allows you to access hardware testing and deep radio settings on Xiaomi devices, and uses special character combinations entered in the Phone app to enter.

Open a standard caller and enter the code ##86583##. If you did everything correctly, a VoLTE carrier check was disabled (or enabled) pop-up message should appear on the screen. This code does not disable the function itself, but removes the operator check, then in the standard settings menu (Settings). → SIM-Maps and mobile networks should appear the same missing switch.

• 📱 Enter the #86583## code to unlock the menu.
• 🔍 Go to the settings. SIM-maps and find the new switchboard.
• 🔌 Turn off the VoLTE option for the desired SIM card.
• 🔄 Reboot your smartphone to apply changes.

If the first code didn’t work or the message said that the check was enabled, try an alternative method for older versions of MIUI: ##4636##. This code opens the Testing menu where you can select Phone Information. Here you can find the Set Preferred Network Type and select a mode without LTE Voice support, such as TD-SCDMA/GSM/EDGE or just 3G/2G, but this will also turn off 4G Internet.

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Once the code is entered, the message may disappear after a second, carefully monitor the bottom of the screen or use a screencast to make sure the command is received by the system.

Use of Activity Launcher App

When codes fail (which is often the case on newer versions of HyperOS or global firmware), third-party software comes to the rescue. Activity Launcher allows you to run hidden system activities that are not displayed in the interface. It is a powerful tool that requires accuracy, but is effective for accessing the menu of the VoLTE developer.

Download the app from Google Play and install it. After launch, you will need to give permission to display on top of other windows. When searching inside the application, type the word VoLTE or IMS. The system will give you a list of hidden activities related to telephony. We are interested in the item containing ims or Vonage (depending on the Android version).

⚠️ Warning: Be careful when switching toggles in the hidden menu of Activity Launcher. IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem can cause the network to disappear completely before resetting. Change only those settings that are clearly related to VoLTE.

Once you find the right option (often called Vonage Settings or IMS Settings), you will see a list of features. Here you can force voice support over LTE. After changing the settings, you should turn on Air Mode for 10 seconds, and then turn it off so that the communication module restarts with new parameters.

Configure via the hidden MIUI (CIT) menu

Another layer of access to settings is the CIT (Customer Information Test) menu, which is originally designed for service centers. On some Xiaomi Mi and Redmi models, you can find additional radio switches here.

In the test list that opens, you'll find a section that's related to Telephony or Sim Card. The interface may vary depending on the processor model (Snapdragon or MediaTek). If you're lucky, you'll find a VoLTE Config or similar, and you can not only disable the function, but also reset the operator configuration.

It is worth remembering that once the firmware update is updated, the menus can be closed by developers, in which case the only option is waiting for a patch or using root rights, which is already a difficult procedure for experienced users.

Dual SIM and Network Switching Problems

A special category of problems arises for users with two active SIM cards. Many Xiaomi smartphones have technology that allows you to take calls to the second SIM card without breaking the Internet session on the first one.

If you see that when you call the second SIM, the Internet goes into E mode on the first one (EDGE) or 3G, though it should remain 4G+, Try to disable VoLTE only on the second SIM card. This often stabilizes the modem. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → (Choose the second. SIM) → Type of network.

There is also a nuance with the so-called "stick" network: the phone may not return to 4G after the end of the conversation, staying in 3G. In this case, it helps to temporarily turn on and off Air Mode. If the problem is repeated constantly, completely disabling VoLTE through the engineering menu is the only working solution.

Impact on battery and system stability

Many users notice that after updating the system, the smartphone begins to discharge faster, often the culprit is the communication module, which constantly tries to maintain the VoLTE connection in the zone of insecure reception, constant network search and switching between standards. 3G/4G/LTE puts a strain on the processor and radio.

Disabling the feature can extend the device’s standby time by 10-15%, especially for older models like the Redmi Note 8 or Mi 9T, where battery capacity is no longer ideal, and reduces the heating of the case in the pocket as radio emission becomes more stable and predictable.

⚠️ If after the VoLTE shutdown the voice service disappeared (it is impossible to call or take a call), then in your region the operator completely switched to voice only through the use of the voice service. 4G. In this case, you will have to return the settings back or change the operator.

To test the function's power consumption, you can use the built-in battery statistics, compare the power consumption of the function on and off under the same conditions of use, the difference may not be obvious with an active screen, but it's very noticeable in standby mode.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Disabling VoLTE is an effective way to deal with battery discharge and unstable communications in areas of poor coverage, but it requires care when working with engineering menus.