Technology VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) allows you to make calls over Wi-Fi networks, which is useful in areas with poor mobile coverage. However, on smartphones Xiaomi Redmi This feature sometimes turns on automatically, causing problems ranging from accidental switching to Wi-Fi calling to conflicts with messaging apps. In this article, we'll discuss how to properly disable VoWiFi on different models. RedmiWhat to do if a function doesn't disappear from the menu, and what pitfalls to consider.
Many users are experiencing the VoWiFi setting appearing in the menu after updating MIUI, but its deactivation isn't always obvious. This is especially true for owners Redmi Note 10/11/12, Redmi 9/10 and flagship series. It's important to understand that the process may vary depending on the firmware version and carrier—some providers block manual disabling.
If you notice that your phone automatically switches to Wi-Fi during calls and the connection quality deteriorates, VoWiFi is likely the culprit. Below, we'll show you how to deactivate it without risking losing your phone's core functionality.
What is VoWiFi and why should you disable it?
VoWiFi (or Wi-Fi Calling) is a technology that allows voice calls to be made over Wi-Fi networks instead of traditional cell towers. It's useful in areas where the cellular signal is weak but there's a stable Wi-Fi connection—for example, in basements, remote areas, or country houses. However, this feature also has its drawbacks:
- 🔋 Increased battery consumption: The phone constantly scans for networks and maintains two communication channels.
- 📶 Unstable calls: If Wi-Fi is weak, voice may be interrupted or cut out.
- 🔒 Conflicts with VPNs and instant messengers: some applications (eg WhatsApp or Telegram) may incorrectly determine the connection type.
- 📱 Firmware dependency: On custom ROMs or older versions of MIUI, the function may not work properly.
In addition, some operators (eg, MTS or Beeline) force VoWiFi to be activated for subscribers with certain plans. This can lead to unexpected charges if the plan charges Wi-Fi calls as international calls (for example, when roaming).
You should disable VoWiFi if:
- 📞 You notice problems with the quality of calls over Wi-Fi.
- 🔄 The phone spontaneously switches to VoWiFi, although the mobile network is stable.
- 💰 Your operator charges Wi-Fi calls separately.
- 🛠️ You are using an unofficial firmware where the function does not work correctly.
How to disable VoWiFi on Redmi via phone settings
The easiest way is to use the standard menu MIUIThe instructions are suitable for most models. Redmi on the official firmware (MIUI 12-14). If you have a custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience), the path may differ.
Steps to disable:
- Open the app
Settings(gear icon). - Go to the section
SIM cards and mobile networks. - Select your SIM card (if you have two).
- Find the item
Calls via Wi-FiorVoWiFi. - Move the slider to the position Off
If the point Calls via Wi-Fi No, try an alternative way:
- Go to
Settings → Connections and Sharing → Mobile Network. - Tap on
Additionally(orAdvanced settings). - Find the option
Wi-Fi Callingand turn it off.
☑️ Check if VoWiFi is disabled
On some firmware (for example, MIUI 13 for Redmi Note 11) the option may be hidden deeper:
Settings → Storage & SIM cards → [Select SIM] → Wi-Fi calling
⚠️ AttentionOn phones with two SIM cards, VoWiFi can be activated separately for each card. Check the settings for both SIM cards!
VoWiFi won't turn off: what to do?
If the slider is grayed out, inactive, or the feature re-enables after being disabled, the problem could be one of three factors:
- The operator blocks the shutdown (For example, Megaphone or Tele2 on some tariffs).
- Firmware with a bug (especially relevant for beta versions of MIUI).
- Hardware binding (on some models, VoWiFi is hardwired into the modem).
Solutions in order:
1. Check operator restrictions
Some operators (eg. Yota or virtual operators like Tinkoff Mobile) tie VoWiFi to your plan. To check:
- 📞 Call your operator and check if this feature can be disabled on your plan.
- 🌐 Log in to your personal account on the operator's website—sometimes there's a separate setting there.
- 📄 Check your contract: some plans include mandatory VoWiFi use.
2. Reset network settings
If the problem is in the software, a reset will help:
- Go to
Settings → System & device → Reset settings. - Select
Reset network settings(do not reset all settings!). - Confirm the action and restart your phone.
⚠️ Attention: After the reset, you will have to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords and set up Bluetooth devices.
3. Using the engineering menu
For advanced users: VoWiFi can be disabled through the engineering menu. Carefully - Incorrect actions may disrupt the operation of the modem!
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In the menu that opens:
- Select
Phone information. - Scroll down to
Wi-Fi Calling. - If there is an option
Disable- tap on it.
On some models Redmi (For example, Redmi K50) another way:
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In this menu, look for the item VoWiFi Configuration and turn it off.
What happens if I disable VoWiFi through the engineering menu?
Disabling the modem via the engineering menu may cause it to malfunction if the phone doesn't support manual modem control. In some cases, rebooting resets the settings and reactivates VoWiFi. This method is recommended only if standard solutions fail.
Disabling VoWiFi for specific Redmi models
The process may vary depending on the model and MIUI version. Below is a table with current paths for popular devices:
| Model | MIUI version | Path to VoWiFi settings | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10/10 Pro | 12–14 | Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → [SIM] → Wi-Fi calling |
On some firmware versions, the option is hidden if the SIM card does not support VoWiFi. |
| Redmi 9/9A/9C | 11–13 | Settings → Connections → Mobile Network → Advanced → Wi-Fi Calling |
May not be available on budget versions with a 3G modem. |
| Redmi K40/K50 | 13–14 | Settings → Storage & SIM → [SIM] → Wi-Fi Calling |
On global firmware versions, this option is always active; on Chinese versions, it may not be present. |
| Redmi Note 12 | 14 | Settings → Mobile network → [SIM] → Wi-Fi calling |
Supports VoLTE and VoWiFi simultaneously - disabling one may affect the other. |
For models Redmi 8/8A On phones manufactured before 2020 and older, VoWiFi is often absent from the hardware. If the option isn't available in the menu, your phone simply doesn't support the technology.
On Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G and other 5G models, VoWiFi can be tied to VoNR (Voice over New Radio). In this case, disabling VoWiFi may impact 5G calling. Before making any changes, check to see if your carrier uses this technology.
Consequences of VoWiFi Disconnection
In most cases, disabling VoWiFi doesn't affect the phone's basic functions. However, there are some caveats:
- 📶 Deterioration of communication in poor coverage areas: If you have a weak mobile network signal at home, calls may be dropped.
- 🔄 Automatic activation after update: Some MIUI versions reactivate VoWiFi after the update.
- 📱 Conflicts with VoLTE: On some models, disabling VoWiFi causes malfunctions VoLTE (calls over 4G).
- 🔒 Blocking by operator: If VoWiFi was part of the plan, disabling it may result in a change in terms (for example, a reduction in minutes).
On Redmi phones with MediaTek processors (e.g., Redmi 9 or Note 10), disabling VoWiFi sometimes resets APN settings. This may cause loss of mobile data—check your access point settings!
To check if the outage has affected the connection quality:
- Make a test call via a mobile network (turn off Wi-Fi).
- Check if the icon has disappeared
HDorVoLTEin the status bar. - Make sure that SMS and mobile internet are working stably.
Alternative methods: disabling via the SIM menu or operator
If standard methods don't work, try:
1. Disabling via USSD command
Some operators allow you to control VoWiFi via USSD requests. Example commands:
- MTS:
*111*469#(check status) →*111*469*0#(disconnection). - Beeline:
*110*180#(Wi-Fi Calling control). - Megaphone:
*105*477#(disconnect request).
Check with your operator for the current command - they may change.
2. Replacing the SIM card
On some tariffs, VoWiFi is tied to eSIM or newer-style SIM cards. If you're using an older-style physical SIM card (without 4G support), VoWiFi may automatically disable. Try:
- 🔄 Insert the SIM card into another phone and check if VoWiFi is activated there.
- 📱 Replace your SIM card with a new one at a mobile operator's store (sometimes this helps even if the number remains the same).
3. Using network management applications
Apps like Network Signal Guru or 4G LTE Switch allow you to manually control network functions, including VoWiFi. However, they require root rights, which will void the warranty and may cause the phone to malfunction.
⚠️ AttentionOperator interfaces and USSD commands are subject to change. Before using, check the official source (website or operator support) for up-to-date information.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
When disabling VoWiFi, users often encounter typical problems:
- 🔄 VoWiFi turns on automatically after a reboot. → Check if the firmware was updated automatically. Disable automatic updates in
Settings → About phone → System update. - 📵 "Mobile internet disappeared after being disconnected." → Reset APN settings (see section above) or restart your phone.
- 🔒 "The operator won't let me turn off VoWiFi." → Try changing your plan or contacting support to unlink the feature.
- 📱 "There is no VoWiFi option in the settings." → Your model or firmware may not support this feature. Check the specifications on the website. Xiaomi.
Another common mistake is to confuse VoWiFi And VoLTEDisabling the former shouldn't affect the latter, but on some firmware versions these functions are linked. If the icons disappear after disabling VoWiFi HD or 4G+ In the status bar, check the VoLTE settings separately.
If you use Redmi with unofficial firmware (for example, MIUI EU or xiaomi.eu), VoWiFi may be unstable. In this case, the following will help:
- 🔄 Flashing to the official global version of MIUI.
- 🛠️ Manual file editing
build.prop(requires root). - 📱 Installing the module Magisk to manage network functions.
FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to disable VoWiFi on Redmi without root?
Yes, in most cases, the phone's default settings or operator USSD commands are sufficient. Root access is only necessary for deep editing of system files, which is not recommended for regular users.
Why don't WhatsApp calls work after disabling VoWiFi?
This isn't directly related. Check your settings. WhatsApp: The app may be using Wi-Fi for calls independently of VoWiFi. Go to WhatsApp Settings → Storage & Data → Network Usage and turn on the "Use less data for calls" option.
Will VoWiFi work while roaming if I haven't disabled it?
Depends on the operator. Some providers (for example, Megaphone) automatically disable VoWiFi when roaming to avoid additional charges. Others (for example, MTS) may charge Wi-Fi calls as international calls. Check with your carrier for details.
How do I check if VoWiFi is enabled on my Redmi?
There are several ways:
- Look at the icon in the status bar: if there is a signal strength icon next to it,
Wi-FiorVoWiFi, the function is active. - During a call, check if the Wi-Fi indicator on the top panel is on.
- Go to
Settings → SIM cards and mobile networksand look at the slider status.
Will disabling VoWiFi affect 5G?
On most models Redmi (For example, Redmi K50 or Note 12 Pro+ 5G) VoWiFi and 5G work independently. However, on some firmware versions, disabling VoWiFi may reset the settings. VoNR (voice over 5G), which will result in a drop in call quality. Test this experimentally.