How to install a ringtone on Xiaomi Redmi: 5 proven ways

Changing the standard ringtone to Xiaomi Redmi is a challenge that every second owner of the smartphone in this series faces. Despite its apparent simplicity, the process can be difficult due to the features of the MIUI shell and the limitations on the format of audio files. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways, from basic replacement through settings to install custom tunes through the file system and third-party applications.

It is important to understand that the algorithm of actions may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI (12, 13, 14 or 15) and the specific model of Redmi (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ vs Redmi 10C). However, the basic principles remain unchanged. If you want to use your own music in MP3 or M4A format, prepare for additional manipulation of files, since the system by default offers only built-in options.

Before proceeding, make sure your audio file meets the following requirements:

• 🎵 Format: MP3, M4A, WAV (Up to 5 MB for stable operation)
• ⏱ Duration: optimally 15-30 seconds (the system can cut long tracks)
• 📁 Location: The file must be in the device memory (not on the device). SD-map!)

Method 1: Replace the ringtone with standard MIUI settings

This is the easiest method that does not require installing additional applications, suitable for those who want to choose a tune from pre-loaded options or use standard Xiaomi sounds.

Steps for MIUI 14/15:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the section Sound and vibration.
3. Slap on the call melody item.
4. In the list that opens, select one of the categories: 🔔 MIUI — Xiaomi-branded sounds 🎼 Local – your uploaded files (if they are already added to the system) 📱 Downloads - tunes from the Downloads folder

OK.

Restriction: This menu only displays files from Ringtones, Notifications, and Alarms folders, as well as standard sounds. If your file is in a different directory (such as Music or Downloads), the system will not see it.

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi models (e.g. Redmi) A2 or Redmi 12C) post-update MIUI 15 may be missing the Local section in the tone list, in which case use Method 3 with the file system.

Method 2: Adding a custom ringtone through the Ringtones folder

If you want to use your own music as a ringtone, you need to put it in a special system folder, which works on all versions of MIUI and does not require root rights.

Instructions:

1. Connect your phone to your computer via USB (file transfer mode) or use a file manager on your smartphone (e.g., Google Files).
2. Go to the root folder of internal memory (not the root folder). SD-map!).
3. Create a folder with the name Ringtones (if it's not there). Importantly, the name should be written that way, with a capital letter and no quotation marks!
4. Copy your audio file (for example, my_ringtone.mp3) into this folder.
5. Reboot your phone (required!).
6. Now go to Settings → Sound and Vibration → Call Melody → Local – your file should appear in the list.

Method 3: Using a file manager with access rights

On some MIUI firmware (especially on Redmi with the global version), the standard file manager does not allow you to create folders at the root of the memory, in which case a third-party application, such as Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer, will help.

Step-by-step:

1. Install Solid Explorer from Google Play.
2. Open the application and give access to the storage.
3. Go to the root directory (/storage/emulated/0/).
4. Create a Ringtones folder (click + → Folder).
5. Copy your audio file into this folder.
6. Reset the device.

Alternative: If you do not want to install additional applications, you can use the ADB-You can connect the phone to the PC, you can turn on Debugging. USB and do it:

adb shell mkdir /storage/emulated/0/Ringtones

Method 4: Install ringtones through the Zedge app

If previous methods seemed complicated, you can use a specialized application Zedge, which offers a huge library of free tunes, notification sounds and wallpaper, and allows you to download your own files.

How to install ringtone through Zedge:

1. Download Zedge from Google Play.
2. Open the application and give access to the storage.
3. Go to the Ringtones tab (Call Melodies).
4. Select your favorite track from the library or click My Stuff → Add to download your file.
5. Slip on the track and select Set as ringtone.
6. Confirm your choice in the system window.

The advantages of Zedge:

• 🎶 More than 1 million free tunes.
• 🔄 Ability to cut tracks before installation.
• 📲 Automatically place files in the correct system folders.

⚠️ Attention: The app contains ads and offers a premium subscription.To avoid unnecessary spending, turn off auto-update purchases in Google Play settings after installing.

Method 5: Set up individual ringtones for contacts

In MIUI, you can assign a unique tune to individual contacts, which is convenient if you want to know who is calling without looking at the screen.

How to set up:

1. Open the Contacts app.
2. Choose the right contact and tap it in his name.
3. Click Edit (pencil icon).
4. Scroll down and find the item Melody of the call.
5. Select the standard sound or go to the Locals tab if you want to use a custom file.
6. Save the changes.

Limitations:

• 🚫 Individual tunes work only for contacts stored in the phone’s memory (not on the phone’s memory). SIM-map).
• 🔕 If the contact is synced with Google Contacts, the melody may reset after the update.

💡

For stable performance of individual ringtones, turn off sync contacts with Google or regularly check the settings after updates.

Problem Solving: The ringtone is not set or played

If you have completed all the steps, but the ringtone does not change or is played out with malfunctions, check the following points:

If the problem persists:

• 🛠 Check if you have a third-party audio management app installed (like Volume Booster) that can block system settings.
• 🔄 Reset the sound settings: Settings → System system → Resetting settings → Reset the sound settings.
• 📱 Update the firmware to the latest version MIUI (In some older versions, there were bugs with sounds).

FAQ: Frequent questions about ringtones on Xiaomi Redmi