How to put a ringtone Xiaomi Mi 6: all ways + error solving

Introduction: features of the sound settings on Xiaomi Mi 6

The Xiaomi Mi 6, released in 2017, is still popular with users due to its balanced performance and support for current versions of MIUI. However, installing a custom ringtone on this device has nuances related to the firmware version and system limitations. Unlike modern models, where you can change tunes directly from the gallery, the Mi 6 often requires manual placement of files in the system folders.

The main problem is that MIUI defaults to a limited set of standard sounds, and adding your own tracks can be blocked due to lack of rights or incorrect file format. In this article, we will discuss all the working ways of installing a ringtone, from standard settings to bypassing restrictions through the file manager and third-party utilities.

If you’ve previously encountered a track that doesn’t appear in the ringtones list or resets after a reboot, here’s a solution. The instructions are valid for all MIUI versions (including MIUI 10–14) installed on the Xiaomi Mi 6, and are also applicable to other Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 models (such as the Mi Mix 2 or Mi Note 3).

Supported audio formats and file requirements

Before installing the ringtone, it is important to make sure that your audio file meets the specifications of the Xiaomi Mi 6. MIUI supports the following formats:

• 🎵 MP3 — The most versatile format recommended for ringtones (bitrate up to 320 kbps).
• 🎵 M4A (AAC) — Provides good quality with a smaller file size.
• 🎵 WAV — without loss of quality, but takes up a lot of space (suitable for short tunes).
• 🚫 FLAC, OGG, WMA — not supported by the default system.

In addition to the format, consider the limitations:

• ⏱️ Duration: optimally - up to 30 seconds (the system can cut long tracks).
• 📁 File size: no more than 5 MB (Or else the lags are possible when reproducing).
• 🔊 Volume: Normalize the sound in an audio editor (such as Audacity) to avoid distortion.

If your file doesn’t fit these parameters, convert it with free services like Online-Convert or CloudConvert. For example, to convert FLAC → MP3, you just need to upload the file to the site, select the bitrate of 192 kbps and download the result.

⚠️ Note: Files with a bitrate above 320 kbps can play with interference on Xiaomi Mi 6 due to the limitations of the Qualcomm audio chip WCD9341. Test the sound before the final installation.

Method 1: Install ringtones through standard MIUI settings

The easiest method is to use the built-in tools of the system, which is suitable if you want to choose a tune from a standard set or previously added files.

Steps:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the section Sound and vibration.
3. Click the Call Melody (or Rington depending on the MIUI version).
4. Select Local Melodies from the list and you will see audio files in the Ringtones folder.

If the desired track is not in the list, you need to pre-copy it into the system folder.

Connect your phone to your PC through USB (file transfer)|Create a Ringtones folder at the root of your internal memory (if it doesn’t exist)|Copy the audio file in format MP3/M4A|Restart the device (optional, to update the list)-->

After copying the file, go back to the ringtone settings and update the list (pull the screen down).If the melody doesn't show up, check:

• 🔍 The correct folder name (registrar is important: Ringtones, not ringtones).
• 📌 Absence of special characters in the file name (for example, #,?).
• 🔄 Try restarting your phone.

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Ringtones, Notifications, and Alarms folders are automatically created when you first copy files. If you don't, create them manually.

Method 2: Using a file manager (for power users)

If the standard method didn't work, you can manually place a file in a system folder through a file manager with or without root rights.

• 📂 Your file does not appear in the ringtones list.
• 🔒 You want to use a tune from a secure folder (for example, Download).
• 🔄 You need to quickly change the ringtone without connecting to the PC.

Instructions:

1. Install a file manager (e.g., Mi File Explorer, Solid Explorer, or FX File Manager).
2. Open the manager and go to the root directory of internal memory (/storage/emulated/0/).
3. Create a Ringtones folder (if it doesn’t exist) and copy the audio file.
4. Give the file a simple name without spaces (e.g, my_ringtone.mp3).
5. Reboot your phone or update the ringtones list in the settings.

⚠️ Note: Some file managers (e.g, ES File Explorer may ask for unnecessary permissions. Use proven apps from Google Play or Mi App Store.

If the file does not appear in the list after copying, try:

• 🔄 Move it to another folder (such as Music) and then back.
• 📌 Change the file extension to.mp3 (Sometimes the system doesn't recognize.m4a).
• 🔍 Check the file for integrity (it may be corrupted).

Method 3: Applications for installing ringtones (Zedge, Ringtone Maker)

If manual methods seem complicated, you can use specialized applications that automate the process and offer libraries of ready-made tunes.

1.Zedge (free ringtones and wallpaper)

The Zedge app contains thousands of free ringtones, notifications and alarms, plus MIUI integration:

• 🔍 Start Zedge and select the Ringtones section.
• 🎵 Find your favorite tune and click Set as ringtone.
• 📱 Confirm your choice in the system window.

Cons: Requires an internet connection to download files.

2. Ringtone Maker (Creating Ringtones from Music)

If you want to make a ringtone out of your song, Ringtone Maker lets you cut the track and save it in the right format:

• 🎶 Select an audio file from your phone’s memory.
• ✂️ Cut the fragment (recommended length – 15-30 seconds).
• 💾 Save as Ringtone (Save as Ringtone).

Once you install the ringtone through a third-party app, check if it is saved in the system settings. Sometimes after the MIUI update, user tunes are reset - in which case, repeat the procedure.

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If the app doesn’t see your audio files, try moving them to the Music or Download folder and updating the list manually.

Problem Solving: The ringtone is not installed or reset

Even after installing the Xiaomi Mi 6 correctly, users may encounter common errors, including the most common ones:

1.The ringtone does not appear on the list

Causes and solutions:

• 📁 Wrong folder: The file should be in the /storage/emulated/0/Ringtones, Not in the subfolders.
• 🔊 Unsupported format: Convert the file to MP3 bitrate 192-320 kbps.
• 🔒 Lack of rights: Give the file manager access to the storage (Settings) → Annexes → Permits).

2.Ringtone resets after reboot

This is a problem that is common in MIUI 12+ and is related to system optimization.

• 🔄 Install the ringtone through Zedge or another app – they capture the choice in the system settings.
• 📌 Use a file with a name in Latin (for example, ringtone1.mp3 instead of my tune.mp3).
• 🔧 Disable optimization for the Settings app (Settings) → Annexes → Application management → Settings → Battery → No restrictions).

3.Rington reproduces with interference

If the sound is interrupted or distorted:

• 🎛️ Reduce the bitrate of the file to 192 kbps.
• 🔊 Check if no sound or no disturb mode is activated.
• 📵 Restart your phone – sometimes the audio driver is reset.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi Mi 6 with custom firmware (like LineageOS), you may not have a Ringtones folder at the root of the memory, in which case you can create it manually or use the Ringtone Picker app from Google Play.

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If the problem persists after all the manipulations, try resetting the sound settings to factory (Settings → System → Resetting → Resetting the sound settings).

Additional settings: vibration, volume and profiles

The ringtone setting is only part of the audio profile setting, and on the Xiaomi Mi 6 you can fine-tune the associated settings:

1. Vibration on the bell

To add vibration to the ringtone:

1. Go to Settings → Sound and vibration → Vibration when calling.
2. Choose a vibration pattern or create your own (Tune Vibration).

2.Loudness and gradual increase in sound

Set up a smooth increase in volume:

• 🔊 Turn on Gradual Volume Increase in the Sound Settings.
• 📈 Adjust the time of increase (optimally - 3-5 seconds).

3. Sound profiles (Do Not Disturb Mode)

Create separate profiles for work and home:

• 🏠 Settings → Sound and vibration → Don't disturb mode".
• ⏰ Set up a schedule or exceptions for contacts.

On the Xiaomi Mi 6 with MIUI 11 and later, the “Adaptive Sound” feature is available, which automatically adjusts the ringtone volume depending on the noise level around. Activated in Settings → Special features → Adaptive sound.

FAQ: Frequent questions about ringtones on Xiaomi Mi 6