Want to stand out from the crowd and hear your favorite tune when you call? Xiaomi MIUI-based smartphones allow you to install custom ringtones, but this process is not always intuitive. Unlike the “naked” versions of Android, where you just copy a file to the Ringtones folder, there are nuances in the firmware of MIUI 12/13/14: file format restrictions, hidden settings and even regional features (for example, on the Chinese versions of MIUI, the option may not be at all).
In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to install your ringtone on Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO and Black Shark – from standard methods through the settings menu to bypassing restrictions with the file manager and third-party applications.
If you have already tried changing the ringtone through Settings → Sounds and vibrations, but your file did not appear on the list, do not rush to blame the smartphone. Chances are the wrong format, ways to save or lack of necessary permissions. Next you will learn how to avoid these pitfalls and finally hear your favorite music when you call.
1. Standard method: through MIUI settings
The most obvious and safe method is to use built-in MIUI tools. It is suitable for most models, including Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi Note 12/11, POCO F5/X5 and other devices on MIUI 12-14.
Here's the step-by-step instruction:
- Prepare the sound file: 🎵 Format:.mp3,.m4a,.ogg or.wav (optimally —.mp3 bitrate 128–192 quid). 🕒 Duration: up to 30 Seconds (long tracks may be cut off). 📁 File name: without Cyrillic and special characters (for example, my_ringtone.mp3).
- Copy the file into one of the system folders: 📂 /storage/emulated/0/Ringtones/ — ring-melodies; 📂 /storage/emulated/0/Notifications/ — notice-in; 📂 /storage/emulated/0/Alarms/ — alarm-box.
⚠️ Note: If you don’t have folders, create them manually through any file manager (e.g., Mi File Manager or Total Commander).
Settings → Sounds and vibrations → Melody of the call
The sound of notifications
The sound of the alarm clock
Your file will appear in the list of available tunes. Select it and save the changes.
If the file is not displayed, try rebooting the device – sometimes MIUI does not immediately scan new audio files, and also make sure that the file is not hidden or in cloud storage (for example, Google Drive or Mi Cloud).
File in the correct folder (Ringtones/Notifications/Alarms)|
The file format is mp3, m4a, ogg or wav|
File name without Cyrillic and spaces |
Duration not exceeding 30 seconds |
The device is restarted after copying the file-->
2. Alternative method: through file manager
If the standard method didn’t work, try installing the ringtone directly through the file manager, a method that is especially useful for devices with Chinese MIUI firmware, where custom tune selection is often absent from the settings.
Instructions:
- Install a file manager with access to system folders (we recommend Mi File Manager or FX File Explorer).
- Copy your audio file into one of the folders: /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/ringtone/ — call-in /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/notification/ — notice-in /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/alarm/ — alarm-box ⚠️ Attention: Folders MIUI/ringtone Enable the display of hidden files in the file manager settings.
- Go to Settings → Sounds and Vibration and select your file from the list.
On some models (such as Xiaomi 12T or POCO X4 Pro), the MIUI/ringtone folder is not by default, in which case create it manually and assign read rights to all users (through the folder properties in the file manager).
💡
If it doesn’t appear in the list of tunes after copying the file, try renaming it Latin (e.g. ringtone1.mp3 instead of my melody.mp3).
3. Use of third-party applications
If system methods don’t work, third-party utilities will come to the rescue, especially for devices with cropped versions of MIUI (for example, for European or global ROM with limited features).
1. Zedge (Ringtones & Wallpapers)
2. Ringtone Maker
- 📥 Download it to Google Play.
- ✂️ Features: cropping tracks, converting formats, creating melodies from any audio files.
- 📌 Instructions: Import your track to the app. Cut the desired fragment (optimally 15-30 seconds). Save as Ringtone, Notification or Alarm.
The advantage of third-party apps is that they bypass MIUI restrictions and even work on Chinese-based devices. However, note that some utilities may request access to contacts or storage — read reviews before installing.
Why can’t apps work on some Xiaomis?
4. Installation of ringtones via PC (ADB)
For advanced users who are not afraid of the command line, there is a way to install ringtones through ADB (Android Debug Bridge).
- 🔒 System folders are blocked on the device;
- 📵 Standard methods don't work;
- 🛠️ You need to install ringtone on multiple devices at the same time (for example, for corporate phones).