Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is still one of the most popular smartphones of the brand due to balanced characteristics and support for current versions of MIUI. However, many users face difficulties when trying to change the standard ringtone to their own. Unlike newer models, there is no obvious button “Select file” in the sound menu – but this does not mean that the task is impossible.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working ways to install custom ringtone on the Redmi Note 7, including methods through system settings, file manager, third-party applications and even ADB for advanced users. We will focus on the nuances of MIUI 12-14, where the logic of working with sounds has changed compared to the earlier versions. If you are tired of standard “Mi-melodies” – read on!
Why can’t Redmi Note 7 just pick a file as a ringtone?
Redmi Note 7 owners often complain that the audio menu does not include custom tunes, instead offering a choice of pre-installed options, the reason being the MIUI security policy:
- 🔒 File system limitations: By default, the smartphone does not scan user folders (such as Download or Music) for audio files for ringtones.
- 📁 Special directories. The system only searches for tunes in Ringtones, Notifications and Alarms folders on the internal storage.
- 🎵 Format and duration: not all audio formats are supported: optimal —.mp3,.m4a or.ogg for up to 30 seconds.
In addition, in MIUI 12 and later, Xiaomi has removed the ability to select files through the standard file manager from the audio menu — now it requires a workaround.
Method 1: Through MIUI system settings (official method)
This is the easiest way, but it only works if your audio file is already in the correct folder.
- Place your audio file (for example, my_ringtone.mp3) You can go to the Ringtones folder on the backend. If you don't have the folder, you can create it manually through any file manager.
- Open Settings → Sound and vibration → Call melody.
- At the top of the screen, tap the Local button (or My Melodies, depending on the MIUI version).
- Select your file from the list. If you don't have one, update the list by pulling the screen down.
⚠️ Note: If the Ringtones folder is created on SD-The files must be stored in the internal memory!
File in MP3, M4A or OGG format
Duration not exceeding 30 seconds
The file is renamed Latin (without Cyrillic)
Ringtones folder created at the root of internal memory
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Method 2: Using a file manager (without root)
If the system method didn't work, try manually pointing the path to the file through the file manager.
- Install a file manager with support for ringtones selection (e.g. Files by Google or Solid Explorer).
- Find your audio file and long-click on it → select “Install as” → “Call melody”.
- Confirm the selection in the system window that opens.
💡 Useful tip: If the “Install As” option is missing, try renaming the file so that there are no spaces or special characters in the title (for example, ringtone1.mp3 instead of calling #1.mp3).
| File manager | Support for ringtone installation | Additional functions |
|---|---|---|
| Files by Google | ✅ Yes. | Waste cleanup, cloud backup |
| Solid Explorer | ✅ Yes (in the paid version) | Two-panel mode, FTP-server |
| Mi File Manager | ❌ No, just a view) | Integration with MIUI, file compression |
| FX File Explorer | ✅ Yes. | Root access, extensions |
Method 3: Ringtone Maker (Zedge, Ringtone Maker)
If the previous methods didn't work, use specialized applications.
- 🎶 Zedge – the largest database of ringtones and notifications with the ability to download custom files.
- ✂️ Ringtone Maker – allows you to crop audio files and save them directly to the Ringtones folder.
- 🔊 AudioMP3 Cutter is a simple editor for creating ringtones from songs.
Instructions for Zedge:
- Install Zedge from Google Play.
- Register (you can register through a Google account).
- Find your favorite tune or upload yours through Menu → My Stuff → Uploads.
- Slip on the track. → Choose "Set as ringtone».
⚠️ Note: Some applications (such as Ringtone Maker) require permission to modify system settings. If the sound has not changed after installing the ringtone, restart your smartphone.
How to cut a song for ringtones in Ringtone Maker?
Method 4: Through ADB (for advanced users)
If none of these methods worked, you can manually add a file to the ringtones database via Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a method that requires a computer and enabled USB debugging.
Steps:
- Download and install ADB Tools on PC.
- On your smartphone, turn on Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (tap 7 times to activate the developer mode).
- Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and enable debugging over USB.
- Connect your phone to your PC and execute in the command line:
adb devices
adb shell
su
cp /sdcard/Download/my_ringtone.mp3 /system/media/audio/ringtones/
chmod 644 /system/media/audio/ringtones/my_ringtone.mp3
rebootImportant: This method requires root or unlocked bootloader permissions. On non-rooted devices, the su command won't work - use adb push instead. my_ringtone.mp3 /sdcard/Ringtones/ Select the file through standard settings.
Method 5: Alternative Launchers (Nova Launcher, POCO Launcher)
Unexpected but working life hack: some launchers allow you to change ringtones through their settings.
- Install Nova Launcher from Google Play.
- Long click on desktop → Settings Nova → Sounds and notifications.
- Select “Call Melody” and specify the path to your file.
🔹 Why does it work? Some launchers have extended rights to modify system parameters, including sounds, but once the launcher is removed, the ringtone may reset.
💡
The most reliable way is to place a file in the Ringtones folder and select it through system settings. ADB and launchers are only suitable for power users.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even after a successful ringtone installation, there may be problems.
- 🔇 Rington won't play: Check if the phone is worth it in Do Not Disturb mode. Make sure the file isn't corrupted (try playing it in the player). Restart the device - sometimes the system doesn't apply the changes right away.
- 📱 File doesn't appear in the list: Move it to the Ringtones folder (not in Music or Download — MIUI Does not support.wav or.flac for ringtones. Rename the file to Latin (e.g, ring.mp3 instead of my call.mp3).
- 🔄 After updating MIUI ringtone reset: This is normal system behavior. Reset after the update. Save backup of the file in the cloud (e.g. Google Drive).
⚠️ Note: If you use two of these SIM-cards, ringtone setting for each of them occurs separately in the Settings menu → SIM-maps and mobile networks → The ringing melody.