Changing the standard tune to a personalized track is one of the first steps that makes a new smartphone truly yours. Owners of Xiaomi Redmi 9 often find that the usual algorithm of actions in MIUI is different from pure Android, and finding the right option can be difficult. In this article, we will discuss in detail all ways to install the ringtone, including hidden settings and working with the file system.
The audio customization process requires attention, because MIUI has its own features of categorizing audio files. You will learn how to properly prepare a file, where to put it, and how to avoid common errors when the phone does not see a track. We will look at both standard methods through settings and advanced options for experienced users.
Preparation of an audio file before installation
Before you start setting up the system, you need to make sure that the file itself is ready to use. The optimal format for ringtones on Xiaomi devices is MP3 or M4A, as they provide better quality at a small size. If you downloaded a track in FLAC or WAV format, the system may not recognize it as a ringtony, although it will play it in a player.
It is also important to consider the length of the tracks: tracks that are too long can break off or not show correctly in the selection list. The length of the ideal ringtone for Redmi 9 is 15 to 30 seconds, which allows you to hear the beginning of the melody even before the caller ID determines the number.
The file should be stored in the device memory, not on the device. SIM-A local location ensures that no delays occur when an incoming call is made due to buffering or lack of internet.
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Use online services to crop tracks so that the chorus or recognizable part of the composition is played on the call, rather than the introduction.
Use of the built-in "Themes" application
The easiest, but not always obvious, way for beginners to change a tune is to use the standard Theme app, a system tool that manages not only visual design but also audio profiles. First, open the app and go to the "Sounds" section or type a query into the search bar.
You can search for a genre or a particular artist. The system will offer a lot of free options that are already optimized for the speaker of your Redmi 9. After selecting a track, click the Download button and then Apply.
But there's a limitation to this method: you're limited to a store catalog, and if you want to play your music, it's not going to work, but it's perfect for changing style quickly without having to connect to a computer.
- 🎵 Open the "Themes" app on the desktop.
- 🔍 Go to the bottom tab "Sounds" or use the search.
- ⬇️ Download your favorite track and click "Apply".
- 📞 Check the volume in the audio settings menu.
Why are some sounds paid?
Configure via the "Sound and Vibration" menu
The classic way to set your music is through system settings, which requires that the file already resides in your smartphone's memory. Go to Settings, then select Sound and Vibration, and that's where the main lever controls all the audio notifications on the device.
Click on the Melody of a Call. The list of standard MIUI songs will open. You need to scroll to the bottom and find the plus button or the words "Select a Melody from Memory" (the name may vary depending on the firmware version).
The system will open the file manager, and you'll need to find the folder where your track was uploaded, usually a Download or Music folder, and once you select the file, it will automatically call for all incoming calls.
⚠️ Note: If you do not see your track in the file list, check its extension. DRM-protection (bought from some music services) may not be displayed in the system selection.
☑️ Pre-installing check
Use of Melody for a Specific Contact
Often, you need to hear different tunes for different people, such as not missing a call from your boss or close relatives. In Xiaomi Redmi 9, this is done through the Contacts or Phone app.
Open a contact list, find the person you want and click on their name. In the profile that opens, look for the Melody of a Call (may be in a three-dot menu if the screen is small). Click on it and select a track from the list or memory of the device.
Now, when that caller is calling, you'll hear a customized composition, which is especially convenient when the phone is down or in the bag.
- 📖 Open the "Contact" appendix".
- 👤 Select the right person from the list.
- 🔔 Click "Call Melody" in your contact profile.
- ✅ Select a unique file for this subscriber.
| Parameter | General call | Contact | Alarm clock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority | Low. | High-pitched | Systemic |
| Source | Sound settings | Contact card | The clock |
| Loudness | Adjustable by buttons | Adjustable by buttons | Separate slider |
| Vibration. | General settings | Individual | Customizable |
Setting the sound on notifications and alarm
Besides voice calls, it's important to set up other audio signals, and the algorithm for an alarm clock is different: you have to open the Clock app, select a specific alarm clock, click on the bell icon or Sound, and select a track from memory, and you can use your MP3 files here.
For notifications (SMS, messengers), the path is through Settings → Sound and vibration → Notifications. However, many applications, such as Telegram or WhatsApp, have their own internal audio settings that override the system.
To change the sound in the messenger, go to its settings, find the Notifications section and select Sound. If it says "Default", the system sound will play. Select "Add" or "Select from files" to play the music.
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The sound settings within apps (WhatsApp, Telegram) take precedence over the general system settings of Android notifications.
Solving problems with the display of tracks
Sometimes users are faced with a file in memory, but it is not in the selection list of tunes, most often the problem lies in the depth of nested folders or access rights. MIUI scans only certain directories.
Try moving the audio file to the root folder Music or Ringtones. If you use a third-party file manager, make sure it has permission to access the storage, and it also helps to reboot the smartphone after copying the file.
In rare cases, cleaning the cache of the Themes or Sound app helps. To do this, go to Settings → Apps → All apps, find what you want and click Clear → Clear the cache.
⚠️ Note: Do not store music files in hidden folders (starting from a dot), the system will ignore them when scanning the media library.