Modern smartphones Xiaomi Offers a variety of advanced features to improve communications, one of which is VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) technology. This feature allows for voice calls over a wireless network, which is especially useful in areas with poor cellular coverage. However, not all users are satisfied with the default operation of this feature, and it is often necessary to disable it.
The reasons for this decision can vary, from a simple desire to save data to problems with sound quality or double calls when the phone is torn between two networks. It's important to understand that managing this setting isn't solely dependent on the firmware. MIUI or HyperOS, but also from the policy of your mobile operator.
In this article, we'll detail all the available methods for disabling Wi-Fi calling, explore hidden engineering menus, and explain why the slider may be missing in some settings. You'll learn how to properly prioritize networks to ensure your smartphone performs reliably under all conditions.
Why you should disable VoWiFi on Xiaomi smartphones
Function VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) was originally designed to improve coverage in buildings with thick walls or in remote locations where cell tower signal strength is weak. However, in practice, users often encounter connection instability. The smartphone may attempt to switch from LTE to Wi-Fi during a call, resulting in connection drops or the appearance of characteristic delays and echo.
Another common problem is so-called "double ringing." This occurs when an incoming call is received simultaneously via both the cellular network and the internet protocol. The user sees two notifications, but when one is accepted, the other is dropped, which is confusing and wastes battery life. Android on devices Xiaomi does not always handle the priorities of these channels correctly.
⚠️ Warning: Disabling this feature may result in complete loss of connection in areas without cellular signal (such as basements or office buildings) but with Wi-Fi. Ensure you have stable LTE coverage before making any changes.
Data consumption is also worth mentioning. Although voice traffic consumes little data, it can become a significant factor when actively roaming or when connected to limited data plans. Some users prefer to keep this option disabled proactively to avoid accidentally connecting to open and unsecured networks during important calls.
The standard method of disabling is through the phone settings.
The easiest and safest way to manage calls over a wireless network is to use the built-in settings menu. Xiaomi. The interface may differ slightly depending on the shell version (MIUI 12, 13, 14 or new HyperOS), but the logic remains the same. Typically, the switch is located in the section dedicated to SIM cards and mobile networks.
First, you need to open the main settings menu and find the section SIM cards and mobile networksAll installed SIM cards are displayed here. Select the one you want to change the settings for. If you have two SIM cards, the settings are applied individually to each, giving you flexibility.
Inside the menu of a specific SIM card, look for the item Calling over Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi CallingIf this option is present, simply toggle the switch to the "Off" position. This will prevent your smartphone from initiating voice calls over the internet, even if the cellular network is unavailable.
☑️ Disabling algorithm in the menu
In some cases, especially on global firmware versions, this option may be hidden if the carrier doesn't support the feature or isn't sending the correct configuration messages. If you don't see the switch, it doesn't mean the feature isn't active—it may be managed exclusively by your carrier or hidden in the engineering menu.
Using the Engineering Menu for Advanced Users
If the standard interface does not provide the required options, you can use the engineering menu XiaomiThis is a hidden section of the system designed for testing hardware and configuring network settings. It is accessed through the Phone app by entering a special character combination.
Enter the code ##86583## in dialer. After entering the last asterisk, a pop-up message should appear on the screen. VoWiFi Carrier check was disabled (or enabled, depending on the current state). This command removes the carrier lock, allowing you to manually enable or disable the VoWiFi feature in the regular settings, even if your provider doesn't formally support it.
##86583##After running this command, return to the normal settings (Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Your SIM) and check if the switch appears there Calling over Wi-FiIf it appears, you can manage the feature in the standard way. However, if you need to completely block your phone from using WiFi for calls at the radio module level, sometimes a more in-depth configuration via the menu is required. Band Mode, but this is risky and not recommended without in-depth knowledge.
What to do if the code doesn't work?
Combination ##86583## This doesn't work on all MIUI versions or with all processors (Snapdragon, MediaTek, Exynos). On newer versions of HyperOS, access to these features may be restricted by the security system. In this case, try this code. ##4636## and select "Phone Information", but the VoWiFi option is less common there.
If after these manipulations the phone stops receiving the network, the best way to fix the situation is to restart the device or turn on airplane mode for a few seconds.
Comparison of call control methods
The choice of disabling method depends on your technical expertise and the specific smartphone model. Below is a table to help you compare the available methods and their effectiveness for different use cases.
| Method | Complexity | Efficiency | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIM card settings | Low | High (if there is a switch) | Minimum |
| Engineering code (86583) | Average | High (Menu Unlock) | Low (reset network settings) |
| Disabling Wi-Fi | Low | 100% (but disables the entire internet) | No internet |
| Reset network settings | High | Medium (temporary solution) | Lost Wi-Fi passwords |
As the table shows, using the default settings is the preferred option. Engineering codes should only be used if the carrier requires it and there's no standard switch. Disabling the Wi-Fi module completely is a last resort, as it solves the call problem but leaves you without wireless internet.
It is worth noting that on some models, such as Xiaomi Redmi Note or series Mi, the location of the items may vary. In new security updates, Xiaomi sometimes changes the menu structure, hiding old functions deeper or renaming them.
The influence of the mobile operator on the operation of the function
Technology VoWiFi This feature only works with the support of your mobile operator. In Russia and the CIS, the major players (MTS, Beeline, Megafon, Tele2) support this feature, but the activation conditions may vary. The operator sends a special configuration profile to the phone, which activates the corresponding menu items.
If you've changed carriers but kept the old settings, or, conversely, switched to a new provider, your phone may behave incorrectly. For example, trying to make a call over Wi-Fi using the previous carrier's protocol will naturally fail. In such cases, it's recommended to reset the network settings.
⚠️ Please note: Voice over WiFi service terms are subject to change by operators without prior notice. We recommend checking your mobile operator's personal account for current plan details and technical requirements.
There's also the concept of "whitelisting" devices. The operator can only allow Wi-Fi calls on certified models. Xiaomi It often appears on these lists, but sometimes global ROM versions do not have the necessary certifications for specific regions, which is why the function may work unstable or be hidden.
Alternative solutions and troubleshooting
If disabling the network using standard methods is not possible, and Wi-Fi calls continue to cause problems (for example, the phone hangs on a weak Wi-Fi signal instead of switching to LTE), you can use the Smart Network Selection feature. In some versions MIUI There is a setting that prevents data or voice calls from being transmitted over Wi-Fi if the cellular signal is good enough.
Another option is to use third-party call management apps, although their capabilities are severely limited by security on modern Android versions. Creating automations via the Macros app (if available) or third-party launchers that will forcefully disable Wi-Fi when an incoming or outgoing call occurs may be more effective, but this may result in connection delays.
Often, the issue can be resolved with a simple software update. Xiaomi regularly fixes bugs related to switching between VoLTE and VoWiFi in security patches. Check for updates in the section About phone → MIUI version.
- 📶 Make sure you have VoLTE enabled, this often improves voice calls and reduces the need to switch to Wi-Fi.
- 🔄 Try resetting your access point (APN) settings to default; sometimes incorrect APN settings can affect registration in the IMS network.
- 📱 Check if you have custom firmware installed, which may not work correctly with the radio module in your region.
If all else fails and the feature continues to interfere, the last resort is a full reset of your phone. Before doing this, be sure to back up all important data, as this will delete all user data and restore the device to its factory settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does disabling VoWiFi affect overall call quality?
No, the quality of calls over a cellular network (GSM/3G/4G) will not degrade. You'll simply disable your phone's internet connection for voice transmission. In areas with strong LTE coverage, the difference will be unnoticeable or even positive, as it will no longer attempt to switch to unstable Wi-Fi.
Do carriers charge extra for Wi-Fi calls?
In most cases, you'll be charged according to your primary plan (package minutes). However, if you're roaming internationally, the rules may differ. Some providers charge VoWiFi calls from abroad as if they were from your home network, which is a huge advantage, but it's best to check with your specific provider.
Is it possible to disable VoWiFi for only one SIM card on a dual-SIM Xiaomi phone?
Yes, the settings are applied individually. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks, select a specific SIM card (e.g., SIM 1) and turn off the "Wi-Fi Calling" toggle for it only. The second SIM card will remain unchanged.
Why did the VoWiFi switch disappear after a firmware update?
The update may have reset the operator configuration or changed the interface logic. Try re-entering the engineering code. ##86583## to unlock hidden features. Also, check if your carrier settings have been updated (usually you receive an SMS with the configuration).