Xiaomi Redmi 9A — One of the most popular budget smartphones, but even in such a model, the manufacturer has provided a useful flash alert function. SMS-This message helps you avoid missing an important call, especially in a noisy room or when the phone is down, but not all users know how to activate this option correctly - it is hidden in non-obvious sections of the menu.
In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to turn on the flash when calling on Redmi. 9A, including standard settings MIUI You'll also learn why the feature may not work even after activation, and how to fix it. MIUI 12/13/14 Android-based 10.
Why you need a flash when calling and who will need it
The flash flash function was originally created for people with hearing impairments, but in practice it is useful for everyone:
- 🔊 In noisy places – when the bell is not heard due to loud music or street noise, the visual signal will attract attention.
- 📱 The phone is screen-down - vibration and melody are drowned out by the surface, and the flash is visible even through the cover.
- 🚗 Driving - allows you to notice an incoming call without being distracted by the sound (relevant to laws prohibiting loud communication).
- 🏠 Nighttime – A bright flash will wake you up if your phone is far from your bed.
On the Redmi 9A, this feature is implemented through the MIUI system settings, but there are nuances: it only works when the screen is unlocked (if the phone is in your pocket, the flash will not work) and can conflict with energy saving mode.
Standard method: Enable via MIUI settings
The most reliable method is to use the built-in tools. On Redmi 9A, the path to configuring the flash may vary depending on the version of MIUI, but the overall scheme is the same:
- Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
- Go to the Special Features section (some firmwares call it Additional Features).
- Select Rumor → Flash at notifications.
- Activate the switch to the position on..
- Set up settings: Camera flash - includes the rear camera; Screen flash - flashing backlit display (only works when unlocked); Calls and Messages - select notification types.
If you don't have Flash notifications on your menu, it means the firmware is cut down by the manufacturer (relevant to some regional versions of Redmi 9A).
Update. MIUI last-minute|Make sure the flash is not occupied by another application (e.g. flashlight)|Turn off the power saving mode|Make sure the camera is not covered with a cover.-->
⚠️ Attention: On Redmi 9A firmware MIUI 12.5 and below, the function may not work stable due to an error in the camera driver. If the flash flash flash flashes chaoticly or doesn't turn on, try resetting the camera settings to Settings → Annexes → Application management → Camera. → Warehouse → Clear the data.
Alternative methods: third-party applications
If the standard method didn't work, you can use apps from Google Play, which offer more customization options, such as:
- 🔦 Flash Alerts 2 – supports individual settings for each contact, adjusting the frequency of blinking and working in the background.
- 📱 Flash Notification – can flash not only the camera, but also the screen (even on a locked device).
- 🔋 Flash On Call – optimized for battery savings, only works on incoming calls.
Installation and configuration using the example of Flash Alerts 2:
- Download the app from Google Play.
- Launch it and grant permissions to Camera, Notifications and AutoRun.
- In the main menu, activate the Enable Flash Alerts switch.
- Configure the settings: Flash on Calls - for calls, Flash on Messages - for SMS and instant messengers, Flash Duration - blinking duration (recommended 5-10 seconds).
The advantage of third-party apps is that they bypass the restrictions MIUI They work even on a locked screen, but they have downsides: battery life increases by 5 to 10 percent, and some functions require a battery life. ROOT-rights.
Why do apps ask for access to notifications?
Why the outbreak doesn’t work: Common problems and solutions
If you have turned on the feature but the flash does not flash when calling, check the following points:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The flash doesn't blink at all. | Function disabled in settings or conflict with another application | Check the permissions for applications that use the camera. Turn off the flashlight in the notification panel. |
| It only flashes when unlocked. | Limit MIUI to save energy | Use third-party applications (such as Flash Alerts 2) with AutoRun permission. |
| The outbreak is triggered with a delay | Processor load or slow firmware | Clear the system cache in Settings → Memory → Clean up or roll back to a more stable version of MIUI. |
| The function disappeared after the update | Xiaomi has removed the option in the new firmware | Install custom software (such as Pixel Experience) or use third-party utilities. |
The Redmi 9A with MIUI 12.0.8 and below has a bug: the flash can spontaneously turn on when the battery is low (less than 15%), due to an error in the energy saving driver. Solution: update the software or turn off the function before recharging.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone starts to warm up after the flash is activated, check if the camera is in the background. Some viruses disguise themselves as system utilities and use the camera to shoot. Run a check with Google Play Protect or antivirus (for example, Dr.Web).
How to turn off the flash when calling if it interferes
If the function is uncomfortable (for example, distracts at night or drains the battery), it can be deactivated:
- For standard settings: Go to Settings → Special features → Hearing → Flash at notifications. Turn off the switch.
- Open the app (for example, Flash Alerts 2).
- Click on the gear icon. → Disable Flash Alerts.
- Remove Camera permissions and Notifications in Android settings.
If the flash continues to flash after turning off, reset the camera settings:
Settings → Applications → Application Management → Camera → Storage → Clear cache and data💡
To quickly turn off the flash without clicking on the menu, add the Special Opportunities shortcut to the home screen. To do this, pinch the empty space on the screen → Widgets → find Settings and drag the desired item.
Comparison of methods: what is better to choose
Each way to turn on the flash has pros and cons. Below is a comparison table for the Xiaomi Redmi 9A:
| Method | Pluses | Cons | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard settings of MIUI | No need to install software, saves battery | It only works when unlocked, limited settings | Users with current firmware |
| Party of annex | Works on a locked screen, flexible settings | Remove the battery, require permits | Those who need advanced functions |
| Custom firmware | Maximum stability, no MIUI restrictions | It is difficult to determine the risk of “bricking” the phone | Experienced users |
For most owners of Redmi 9A, the best solution will be a combination of: standard setting for calls + a third-party application for SMS. This will save battery power and get the necessary functionality.
💡
If you often forget to turn off the flash at night, use Schedule apps (such as Flash Alerts 2) that automatically deactivate the blink at a given time.
Safety and Impact on the Battery
Many users fear that frequent flash activation could disable the LED or speed up battery life.
- 🔋 Battery consumption: One flash flash consumes ~0.01% charge. 100 calls a day, that's it. ~1% extra cost, compared to 1 hour of Bluetooth music, 5-7 hours%.
- 💡 LED resource: modern flashes are designed for 50,000-100,000 switches, 50 calls a day will last for 5-10 years of active use.
- ⚡ Overheating: short-term blinking (1-2 seconds) does not heat the camera, the risk appears only when continuous operation (for example, if you use a flashlight longer than 5 minutes).
However, there are situations where it is better to disable the function:
- 🔋 Battery charge below 20% – excess consumption can cause phone to turn off.
- 🌡️ Ambient temperature above 35°C – additional heating will accelerate battery wear.
- 🛌 Nighttime – A bright flash can interfere with sleep (especially if the phone is lying next to the bed).