Recording phone calls on Xiaomi mobile phones is a function that, at some point, almost all of us have needed or at least considered.Important conversations, sensitive instructions, interviews, or even legal situations make call recording a priority. However, the possibility of doing so depends on various factors, from the operating system version, privacy and security policies, to the legislation in force in each country.
In this article you will learn with Full details on how to record calls on a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone, what options are available depending on the MIUI and Android version, what alternatives exist when the native function is no longer present, as well as a comprehensive review of the most functional applications, limitations, legality, privacy tips, risks and tricks so you can make the best decision for your case, always from the most up-to-date perspective and in compliance with privacy and security regulations.
Why is voice calling still so important?
Voice calls remain a fundamental pillar in daily communication., even despite the popularity of apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, and Google Meet. Mobile operators offer flat-rate plans with unlimited calls and large data bundles at affordable prices, making talking on the phone simple and affordable. The immediacy and formality of a traditional call This makes it essential in personal, professional, and legal situations. Many transactions are best resolved through direct communication, and being able to record these conversations can be key to clearing up misunderstandings, creating minutes, keeping instructions, or providing evidence in the event of an emergency.
Even in times of instant messaging, The voice continues to provide clarity, confidence and effectivenessThat's why the ability to record calls is as in-demand today as ever: to archive agreements, safeguard information, resolve doubts, and, in specific cases, provide legal support.
Xiaomi's native recording feature: when it's available and how to access it
During years, Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO have incorporated the native call recording function in their phones. thanks to custom skins like MIUI. However, this feature has undergone numerous changes and restrictions due to Google regulations and privacy laws in various regions, especially in countries within the European Union.
On older versions of MIUI (such as MIUI 11 on Android 9 and MIUI 12 on Android 11), The option to record calls was integrated into the pre-installed calling app.All you had to do was access the dialer, go to the settings or preferences (they may appear as three vertical dots at the top), find the "Call Recording" section, and choose between enabling automatic recording for all calls or manually recording each conversation using the "Record" button.
Default, the recordings were stored in the directory MIUI/sound_recorder/call_recYou could access them from the device's own file manager, with details like date and time, and even edit or trim the audio files (for example, using external editing apps).
However, This native feature has largely disappeared from devices with the arrival of MIUI 13, MIUI 14 and later, such as HyperOS, especially outside of Asia. Xiaomi switched to using Google's phone app, which doesn't include native recording, in compliance with Google's privacy policies and European regulations. The inability to control the consent of all interlocutors led Google and manufacturers to remove these features in territories where privacy protection is particularly strict.
Steps to use the native call recording feature (only on older supported versions):
- Open the Phone app on your Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO.
- Access the Preferences or Settings menu (three-dot or gear icon).
- Locate the “Call Recording” section.
- Activate the automatic recording option or choose to record manually.
- Recordings will be saved in MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec.
Remember that if your mobile is updated to MIUI 13, MIUI 14, HyperOS or higher, This feature is no longer available.
Why you can no longer record calls natively on Xiaomi (MIUI 13, 14, HyperOS and later)
The disappearance of the native call recorder on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO mobiles is due to a combination of Google policies and international regulations on privacy and data protection. You can check how to record a call on Android to better understand the limitations on different devices.
Starting with Android 10, Google began restricting the APIs that allow call recording and prohibited apps from using accessibility services for this purpose, except in very specific circumstances. Additionally, the Play Store removed several apps that used these methods. The main objective was to prevent unauthorized recordings and protect the right to privacy. of all parties involved in a telephone conversation.
For that reason, Starting with MIUI 13 and later, Xiaomi replaces its dialer with Google's., without a built-in recorder. This particularly affects users in the European Union, where privacy laws are very strict, but also in other countries that have tightened regulations.
The result is that, except for older models, specific international versions or non-updated terminals, users must look for external alternatives if they want to record a telephone conversation.
External solutions: applications to record calls on Xiaomi mobile phones
Given the impossibility of recording calls natively on modern Xiaomi devices, there are solutions based on external applications.It's important to note that while many apps claim to work, their performance may be limited by the MIUI version, Android permissions, and security policies.
Always install apps from official sources (Play Store) to minimize the risk of malware or privacy loss. Keep in mind that some apps may request advanced permissions or special settings, and on newer systems, they may not fully function or may only record local audio (your voice, not the other person's), due to restrictions imposed by Google.
Best apps for recording calls on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO
- Easy Phone: Dialer & Caller IDIntuitive, it allows you to record incoming and outgoing calls, as well as easily share recorded audio in high quality. It offers automatic or manual recording, organization by contacts, date and time, and editing options.
- CallMaster: Caller ID and Spam BlockingIn addition to blocking unwanted calls, it adds options to record conversations and manage recordings according to your preferences. Simple interface and selective recording options.
- Call Recorder – Cube ACRIt allows you to record standard phone calls and calls from VoIP apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.), although some advanced features may require special permissions or older Android versions. It includes cloud storage, password protection, and recording editing.
- Call RecorderIt's one of the oldest and most popular apps. It records calls automatically, organized by name, date, and duration. It allows you to save files as MP3s, transfer them to a microSD card, and share them via messaging apps.
- Switch-Readable Call Recording. Allows you to choose the recording format and quality, cloud storage, password protection for files, and automatic deletion. Ideal for users looking for customization and security.
- True Phone DialerMore geared toward advanced call and contact management, but it includes a simple recording feature, with quick access to recordings from the app itself and on the phone's internal storage.
Common steps for using external call recording apps:
- Download the desired app from the Play Store or the official website.
- Grant all permissions requested by the app (microphone, calls, storage, etc.).
- Configure whether you want automatic recording of all calls or manual recording only in specific cases.
- Make/receive a call and activate recording if it isn't automatic. In some cases, it can be activated from a floating notification.
- Once finished, you can play, edit, share, or delete the recording from the app itself or your file manager.
Remember Android restrictions may result in less than perfect recording, especially on updated devices.. Be sure to test the app before relying on it for critical calls.
Manual methods and rudimentary alternatives to record calls
If no external application meets your expectations, or if system restrictions make recording impossible, There are alternative methods to record a conversationAlthough more rudimentary, they can be effective in specific situations.
- Use another device's audio recorder: Put your Xiaomi on hands-free and record the conversation using another phone, a digital recorder, or a wearable with a recording function. Place the microphone close to the speaker to optimize the sound.
- Recording with external microphoneConnect an external microphone via cable or Bluetooth and use a standard voice recording app. Quality will depend on the microphone and the absence of background noise.
- Using classic recording devices: Portable recorders, smartwatches, tablets, or even laptops can be a quick solution if you have them on hand.
- VoIP apps that allow native recordingIf the call is on Skype, Google Meet, Teams, Zoom, etc., they often include native recording options within the app itself. Activate it during the conversation, and the recording will be saved to your account or directly in the chat.
How to record calls on WhatsApp, Telegram, and other messaging apps
WhatsApp and Telegram do not allow native call recording., but some third-party apps like Cube ACR can record these calls if the system allows it. Alternatively, use the screen recorder to save both voices, although you should always notify the other party and verify the legality of these methods.
For Skype or Google Meet, follow these simple steps:
- In Skype, during the call, tap the three dots ("More options") and then "Start recording." When you finish, the file is saved in the chat for 30 days.
- In Google Meet, go to the activities menu, select "Recording," and turn it on. Participants will receive a notification, and you can then download the file.
Legal Issues: Is it legal to record calls in Spain and Latin America?
One of the aspects The most important thing when recording calls is legality. Regulations vary from country to country, but in general:
- In SpainAccording to the Constitution and the LOPDGDD (Spanish Organic Law on Personal Data Protection), it is legal to record a call if you are part of the conversation. You cannot record third parties without their consent. Sharing recordings without permission may constitute a crime of disclosure of secrets.
- In most Latin American countriesRecording is legal if you participate in the conversation, but sharing or publishing it requires the express consent of all parties involved. Exceptions exist for legal, judicial, or national security reasons.
If you have doubts about the legality or need to use a recording as evidence in a judicial or administrative process, always consult with a lawyer. Illegal use of recordings may result in fines or imprisonment.
Legal and ethical recommendations:
- Inform the other person that the conversation will be recorded, unless your country's law doesn't require it but you want to make it clear for transparency.
- Explain the reason for recording, its duration, and purpose before you begin.
- Respect privacy: Do not record sensitive data unnecessarily.
- Do not broadcast the recording without the consent of all participants.
- Delete or destroy recordings when they have fulfilled their purpose, unless there is a legal obligation to retain them.
- Always base your actions on current regulations and good data protection practices.
Common problems and how to solve them when recording calls on Xiaomi
Although there are applications and tricks, it is common for technical problems to appear when recording calls.Among the most frequent are:
- The interlocutor's voice is not recordedThis is due to restrictions imposed by the operating system or the app itself. Try different settings, check permissions, and use manual methods if necessary.
- The audio is low or distortedAdjust the volume, record in a quiet location, and try different apps or external microphones if the quality is still poor.
- The recordings do not appear. Search the paths indicated by the app or the internal storage, and use the file manager's search engine by typing "call_rec" or "recordings."
- Privacy risks or malwareOnly install recording apps from official sources and review permissions before granting full access to calls or files.
Additional tips for recording calls on Xiaomi phones and maintaining security
- Before recording, check local lawsIn some countries, consent is required; in others, it's enough for you to participate in the call.
- Avoid external apps from unofficial websites; you could install spyware or lose your own recordings.
- Check privacy settings on your mobile before and after installing recording apps.
- Store recordings in safe places, preferably encrypted or backed up to the cloud, and avoid sharing them unless necessary.
- If you are a professional (lawyer, journalist, etc.), be extremely cautious. and follows internal protocols to avoid violations of third-party rights.
- Edit recordings to keep only what is necessary, using audio editing apps if possible.
Updated list of recommended apps for recording calls on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO
- Easy Phone: Dialer & Caller ID. Simple and effective for normal calls.
- CallMaster: Caller ID and Spam Blocking. Complete and useful for avoiding spam and recording relevant calls.
- Cube RTA. Ideal for VoIP and conventional calls. More info on the best apps for recording calls.
- Call Recorder. Experience and ease of use.
- Switch-Readable Call RecordingAdvanced quality and format customization, secure storage.
Advanced tricks and specific scenarios
- If you have an old Xiaomi (MIUI 11, MIUI 12), take advantage of the native recording from the dialer, and save them in the corresponding folder for later preservation or editing.
- If you have a recent model, use the recommended apps and try various methods (automatic recording, manual recording, hands-free recording with another device, external microphone) to find the one that best suits your needs.
- In calls on WhatsApp, Telegram or other apps, check the screen recording option or use compatible apps like Cube ACR, but check the results after each recording.
- For professional interviews or important conversations, also uses a digital recorder as a backup.
Frequently asked questions and common mistakes
- Why can't I find the call recording feature on my Xiaomi? You're probably using a recent version of MIUI, where the feature has been removed. Try third-party apps or manual methods.
- Can I record calls without the other person knowing? Legally, only if your country's legislation allows it and you are participating in the conversation. Always check the regulations.
- Do third-party apps work on all Xiaomi devices? No. Performance depends on the OS version, MIUI or HyperOS version, and the permissions granted.
- Where are recorded voice files saved? In older versions, in “MIUI/sound_recorder/call_rec.” In external apps, in the folder or cloud you configure within the app itself.
- Does recording calls affect the quality of the conversation? Generally no, although quality may be lost if the microphone, network, or recording app isn't working properly.
- Can the other person notice that I am recording the call? Only if you explicitly inform them or if the calling app notifies you on screen (some VoIP apps like Skype and Meet notify you when you start recording).
Recording calls on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones is possible, although with increasing limitations in the latest versions of the operating system. Always consider legality, consent, data protection, and recording quality. If you need to preserve an important conversation, choose the most appropriate option for your device and level of need from the recommended options. Transparency and security should guide your choice to enjoy this tool safely.
