How to put MP3 on a call Xiaomi: 5 proven ways

Tired of the standard ringing melodies on your Xiaomi and want to install your favorite track in MP3 format? You are not alone — users of Redmi, POCO and Mi smartphones often face the limitations of MIUI when trying to change the soundtrack. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to put MP3 on a call, including hidden system functions and bypassing restrictions through third-party applications.

It’s important to understand that in the latest versions of MIUI 14/15, the manufacturer has tightened control over user files, so not all methods that worked on old firmware will remain relevant. We tested each method on Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 and Xiaomi 13 devices — all instructions are given with the latest updates in 2026. If you use the model with global firmware (EEA/RU), some menu items may differ from the Chinese version.

Why not just pick an MP3 from the gallery?

Many users try to set the ringtone through the standard Music or Files app, but are confronted with the message "Format is not supported", because MIUI by default blocks the selection of custom files for system sounds for three reasons:

• 🔒 Security Limitations: The system protects users from installing potentially malicious audio files.
• 📁 Wrong folder: MP3-The file must be in a strictly defined directory (/MIUI/ringtone/ or /Ringtones/).
• 🎵 Inappropriate parameters: the duration of the track should not exceed 30 seconds, and the bitrate - 192 kbit / s.

In addition, in some regional firmware (for example, for India), the call customization function is turned off at the firmware level. If your smartphone is bought from the official Xiaomi store in Russia or Europe, there should be no problems - but owners of "gray" devices may need to unlock the bootloader.

Method 1: Standard Sound and Vibration Menu (MIUI 14/15)

The easiest method is to use the built-in system tools, which are suitable for most models, including the Redmi 10/11, POCO F4/F5 and Xiaomi 12/13 series.

1. Download or prepare MP3-file up to 30 seconds long (can be cropped in the Google Audio Editor app).
2. Move the file to the Ringtones folder on the internal drive (create it manually if it is not available).
3. Open Settings → Sounds and vibration → Call melody.
4. At the top of the screen, tap the Locals (or My Melodies) icon.
5. Choose yours. MP3-file from the list and save the changes.

If you don't have a Local option, upgrade to the latest version or use alternative methods below. On some devices (e.g. POCO M5), this section is hidden and requires activation through the Developer Settings.

Cut the track to 30 seconds |

Convert to MP3 format (bitrate 128-192 kbit/s)|

Rename the file in Latin (without spaces)|

Transfer to /Ringtones/ folder

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Method 2: Application "Zedge" for customization

If the standard method didn’t work, use the popular Zedge service, which allows you to set custom ringtones of calls, notifications and alarms, bypassing the limitations of MIUI. The app is available on Google Play and has a database of millions of free sounds.

Installation instructions:

1. Download Zedge and open it.
2. In the search bar, type in the track name or select a category (e.g., "Ringtones").
3. Click on the sound you like and select "Set as a call".
4. Confirm permissions for the application (access to storage and audio settings).

The advantage of Zedge is automatic trimming of tracks to an acceptable length and optimization for the tracks. MIUI. But keep in mind that some sounds may be copyrighted. MP3-Use the import function in the application.

💡

If Zedge doesn’t display your local MP3s, try moving them to /Zedge/Downloads/ – the app will automatically scan it the next time you run.

Method 3: Manual copying via PC (for power users)

This method requires connecting your smartphone to your computer and is suitable for those who prefer complete control over files.

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux
• 📱 USB-cable (preferably original)
• 🔧 Initiated Debugging Mode USB (in Developer Settings)

Step-by-step:

1. Connect Xiaomi to your PC and select File Transfer Mode (MTP).
2. Open the device’s internal memory and go to /MIUI/ringtone/ (if not, create it manually).
3. Copy the prepared MP3-The file name should contain only Latin characters (e.g., the file name should contain only Latin characters, my_ringtone.mp3).
4. Disconnect the smartphone from the PC and restart it.
5. Go to Settings → Sounds → Call melody – your file should appear in the list.

If the file does not appear in the settings after copying, check:

• 📌 File format (only) MP3 or M4A)
• 📌 Size (not more than 5 MB)
• 📌 The presence of special symbols in the name

Method 4: Using a file manager with root rights

For users with unlocked bootloader and root rights, the most flexible method is direct editing of system files, which can cause firmware failure if it is not done correctly - use it only when you are confident in your actions.

You'll need:

• 📱 Device with unlocked bootloader and Magisk
• 🛠️ File Manager with root support (e.g. Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer)
• 🔊 Prepared MP3-file (can be in format) OGG save space)

Instructions:

1. Open the file manager and give it root rights.
2. Go to /system/media/audio/ringtones/.
3. Copy your file into this folder (replace existing system tunes if necessary).
4. Set permissions for the file: 644 (owner - read / write, group - read).
5. Reset the device.

💡

Changing system files without a backup can lead to a device blink. Always create a backup through TWRP before editing the /system folder.

After the reboot, your track will appear in the standard melody list, which also allows you to replace the notifications (/system/media/audio/notifications/) and alarms (/system/media/audio/alarms/).

Method 5: Alternative launchers with customization support

If you use a third-party launcher (like Nova Launcher or Hyperion), some offer advanced audio settings. For example, Nova Launcher allows you to attach unique tunes to specific contacts via the Nova TeslaUnread plugin.

How it works:

1. Install Nova Launcher and activate it as the default launcher.
2. Download the TeslaUnread add-on from Google Play.
3. In the plugin settings, select Contact Ringtones and specify the path to your MP3-file.
4. Link the melody to a specific contact in the phone book.

This method does not replace the global ringtone of a call, but allows for personalized sounds for individual subscribers, and is suitable for users who want to quickly identify the caller by a unique ringtone.

Compatibility table with Xiaomi models

Note: devices with MIUI for POCO (e.g., POCO X3 Pro) may require additional permission settings for third-party applications via Settings → Applications → Special Access → Audio Installation.

What do you do if nothing works?

If none of the methods worked, check the following points:

⚠️ Note: On devices with Chinese firmware (without Global) ROM) Call customization is often disabled at firmware level. EEA/RU version via Mi Flash Tool (instructions on Xiaomi.eu).

• 🔄 Update the firmware: in older versions MIUI (below 12.5) there may be no custom tune options.
• 📱 Check the model: on some devices (for example, Redmi Go) functionality is limited due to weak iron.
• 🔊 Convert the file: Use an online converter to convert to MP3 128 kbps.
• 🛠️ Reset Settings: Sometimes Resetting to Factory Through Settings Helps → The phone. → Resetting settings (don’t forget to make a backup!).

If the problem persists, contact the official Xiaomi support chat with the device model and version of MIUI. 90% of the problems are due to regional firmware restrictions.

FAQ: Frequent questions about installing MP3 on a call