Changing a standard call to Xiaomi Redmi seems like a simple task — until you face the limitations of MIUI. The system hides folders with ringtones, blocks access to some audio files, and after updating the audio setting menu, the audio settings can completely disappear from the interface. In this article, we will discuss 5 proven ways to set the melody on the call, alarm or notifications — from standard tools to bypassing restrictions through the file manager and third-party applications.
Redmi (as opposed to Android) is hard-to-reach with Xiaomi’s branded services, for example, the default system suggests selecting a ringtone from a preset list, ignoring files in the device’s memory. We’ll show you how to bypass this restriction without root rights using hidden MIUI 14 features and free utilities. We’ll also look at common mistakes: why the melody doesn’t appear on the list, how to fix the track clipping, and what to do if the call is reset to a standard one.
1. Standard method: through "Sound settings"
The most obvious method is to use the built-in MIUI menu, which works on all Redmi models (from Redmi Note 10 to Redmi 12), but with the caveat: the system will only see files in certain folders and formats.
Open Settings → Sound and vibration → Call. Here you will see a list of standard tunes.
- 📁 Move the audio file to the Ringtones folder (for calls) or Notifications folder on the internal drive. Create the folder manually if it is not there.
- 🔍 Return to the call selection menu and update the list (pull the screen down). Your file should appear in the Locals section».
- ⚙️ If there is no file, check the format: MIUI supports.mp3,.m4a,.ogg and.wav (up to 5MB in size).
On models with MIUI 14, the path may be different: Settings → Sound → Phone Call. If there is no Local, then the system does not see the ringtones folder. Solution: Use a file manager (e.g., Mi File Explorer) and manually check for /storage/emulated/0/Ringtones folder.
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If after rebooting the smartphone, the melody is reset to standard, clear the cache of the Settings application (Settings → Applications → Application Management → Settings → Storage → Clear the cache).
2. circumvention of restrictions: MIUI/ringtone folder
The hidden trick for Redmi is to use the MIUI/ringtone system folder, which works even if the standard method doesn't work, but requires you to follow the instructions exactly:
- Connect your smartphone to your PC or use a file manager (such as Solid Explorer).
- Go to /storage/emulated/0/MIUI/ringtone. If you don't have a MIUI folder, create it manually.
- Place an audio file (.mp3 or.m4a format, up to 30 seconds).
- Reset the device.
After the reboot, your tune will appear in the list of standard ringtones, which is suitable for the Redmi Note 11/12, Redmi 10 and other models on MIUI 12-14.
Created folder MIUI/ringtone| File in.mp3 or.m4a| Track duration ≤ 30 seconds | Device rebooted
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3.Use of the Zedge application
If you don't want to mess with folders, install Zedge, a free app with a database of ringtones and wallpaper, which automatically integrates into the MIUI sound menu:
- 📱 Install Zedge from Google Play.
- 🔍 Find your favorite ringtone and click “Install».
- ✅ The app will suggest you use it as a bell, alarm or notification.
Zedge creates its own Zedge folder in the memory of the device where it downloads files, minus the method: the application shows ads and requires access to storage, but it works on all versions of MIUI, including the Redmi 9A and Redmi Note 8 Pro.
4. Trimming of the melody with built-in means
Often users face a problem: the track is too long and MIUI does not accept it.
- Open the Music app (or Google Play Music if installed).
- Select the track → Edit → Cut.
- Specify the beginning and end of the fragment (optimally - 20-30 seconds).
- Save the new file to the Ringtones folder.
On Redmi with MIUI 14, the cropping function can be hidden. Alternatively, use the Ringtone Maker app or MP3 Cutter app, which allows you to more accurately customize the beginning and end of the track, as well as convert formats.
Why does MIUI not see the clipped file?
5. Problem Solving: The Melody is Not Set
If after all the manipulations your ringtone is not displayed or reset, check these points:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| File not visible on the list | Wrong folder or format | Move to MIUI/ringtone, convert to.mp3 |
| The melody is reset after rebooting | Mistake of MIUI cache | Clear the cache of Settings and Media |
| It is impossible to select a file from memory | Limitations of MIUI 14 | Use Zedge or hand-held placement |
| The call is playing with distortion | High bitrate file | Convert to 128-192 kbps via Audacity |
On the Redmi Note 10 Pro and later, there may be a bug: after the MIUI update, the "Call" item in the audio settings disappears.
⚠️ Warning: If the sound menu has disappeared, reset the Settings app settings (Settings) → Annexes → Application management → Settings → Warehouse → This will bring back the standard interface without losing data.
6. Alternative methods: for advanced users
If the standard methods don’t work, try these options:
- 📲 ADB-commands: For advanced users, change system paths through the adb shell. For example, command for forced scanning of media files: adb shell am broadcast -a android.intent.action.MEDIA_SCANNER_SCAN_FILE -d file:///storage/emulated/0/Ringtones/
- 🔧 Root access: Magisk can replace system ringtones in the /system/media/audio/ringtones. Risky method - only for sewn devices.
- 🌐 Cloud Services: Upload the file to Google Drive, open it via Files by Google and select “Install as a ringtone».
On Redmi with MIUI 13/14, the most reliable way is to combine Zedge + manually placed in MIUI/ringtone, which ensures that the tune stays with updates and reboots.
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For Redmi models on MIUI 14, priority is (1) MIUI/ringtone folder, 2) Zedge, 3) Standard settings.