How to Enable Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi: Complete Instructions with Compatibility Check

Wi-Fi Calling on Smartphones Xiaomi — is a technology that allows you to make voice calls even without mobile network coverage. This feature is especially useful in buildings with poor signal strength. 2G/4G/5G, where stable Wi-Fi provides crystal clear sound. However, not all models Redmi, POCO or Mi support this option, and its activation depends on the firmware, telecom operator and regional settings.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions for enabling Wi-Fi Calling on any smartphone Xiaomi, a compatibility table with Russian operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2), and troubleshooting solutions—from a grayed-out menu item to the "Not supported by operator" error. We'll also discuss how to check if the feature is working. without a SIM card (for example, for calls via WhatsApp or Skype), and than VoWiFi differs from VoLTE.

If you've already tried enabling Wi-Fi Calling and it didn't work, don't despair. In 90% of cases, the problem can be resolved by updating the firmware or changing the region in the settings. MIUI. And for owners of older models (for example, Redmi Note 8 Pro or Mi 9T) we have prepared alternative methods using third-party applications.

What is Wi-Fi Calling and why is it needed on Xiaomi?

Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi) — is a technology that allows you to make calls over an internet connection instead of traditional mobile networks. Unlike instant messengers (like Viber or Zoom), your regular phone number is used here, and the person on the other end of the line will see your standard caller ID.

The main advantages of the function on Xiaomi:

  • 📶 Stable signal in places with poor coverage (basements, elevators, remote areas).
  • 🎧 Best sound quality thanks to the codec HD Voice (if supported by the operator).
  • 🔄 Smooth transition between Wi-Fi and mobile network during a call (if enabled) VoLTE).
  • 💰 Saving when roaming (calls via Wi-Fi are not charged as international calls).

It is important to understand that Wi-Fi Calling is not the same as VoLTE. VoLTE (Voice over LTE) works via 4G/5G mobile internet, while VoWiFi uses any Wi-Fi network. Xiaomi These functions are often interconnected: if the operator does not support VoLTE, then Wi-Fi Calling may also be unavailable.

📊 Which operator are you connected to?
MTS
Beeline
Megaphone
Tele2
Yota/Other

On Xiaomi smartphones running MIUI 12.5 or later, Wi-Fi Calling automatically activates "Enhanced Compatibility" mode for carriers that don't support VoLTE in your region. This means that even if there is no explicit option in the settings VoWiFi, the function can work hidden.

Requirements for Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi

Before attempting to enable Wi-Fi Calling, please ensure your smartphone and carrier meet the minimum requirements:

Criterion Minimum requirements Notes
Xiaomi model Redmi Note 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5, Mi 11/12/13, Xiaomi 12T/13T and newer Older models (before 2020) require manual firmware patching
MIUI firmware MIUI 12.5 or later (Global/EEA/Russia) Chinese firmware (China ROM) does not support VoWiFi for Russian operators.
Telecom operator MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2 (with a tariff that supports VoLTE) Yota and virtual operators (for example, Tinkoff Mobile) may not support
SIM card Nano-SIM with VoLTE support (usually issued when replacing an old card) eSIM is only supported on Xiaomi 12S Ultra and newer
Wi-Fi network Any 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network (preferably with a speed of 5 Mbps) Public networks (such as in cafes) may block VoWiFi.

If your smartphone is not on the list of supported models, this does not mean that Wi-Fi Calling will not work. For example, on Redmi Note 9 Pro The function appears after updating to MIUI 13.0.4, and on POCO F3 - only when changing the region to India or Europe.

⚠️ Attention: Some operators (for example, MegaFon) require Activate the VoLTE service in your personal account Before using Wi-Fi Calling, the menu on Xiaomi will be inactive without this option.

Step-by-step instructions: how to enable Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi

If your smartphone and carrier support the technology, follow these instructions. The process may vary slightly depending on the version. MIUI, but the general logic remains the same.

Step 1: Check for VoLTE support

Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi works only when active VoLTETo check it:

  1. Open Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks.
  2. Select your SIM card.
  3. Find the item Enable VoLTE and activate it.

If this option is missing, update the firmware or change the region (instructions below).

Step 2: Enable Wi-Fi Calling

Now let's activate the function itself:

  1. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → [Your SIM card].
  2. Tap on Wi-Fi Calling (or Wi-Fi calling).
  3. Select mode:
    • Wi-Fi only — calls only via the Internet.
    • Wi-Fi is preferred — priority is given to Wi-Fi, but if it is not available, the mobile network is used.
    • Mobile network is preferred — Wi-Fi is used only when there is no signal at all.
  • Confirm your emergency address (usually automatically determined by geolocation).
  • Firmware updated to the latest version|VoLTE enabled in settings|SIM card supports VoLTE|Phone connected to Wi-Fi-->

    Once activated, an icon will appear in the status bar. 📞 Wi-Fi or VoWiFiIf it's not there, restart your phone.

    Step 3: Checking the work

    To make sure the function works:

    1. Turn off mobile data (Settings → SIM cards → Mobile Internet → Off).
    2. Turn on airplane mode, but leave Wi-Fi active.
    3. Try calling another number.

    If the call went through, everything is configured correctly. If not, proceed to the "Troubleshooting" section.

    How to enable Wi-Fi Calling on older Xiaomi models

    If you have Redmi Note 8/9, Mi 9/10 or another model before 2020, the standard method may not work. In this case, there are two options:

    Method 1: Change the firmware region

    Some regions (eg India or Europe) have extended VoWiFi support. To change the region:

    1. Install the application MIUI Region Changer (requires root access or unlocked bootloader).
    2. Select a region India (IN) or Europe (EEA).
    3. Restart your phone and check for the presence of the item Wi-Fi Calling in the settings.
    4. Risks of changing regions

      Changing your region may void your warranty, cause instability in some features (such as NFC or Google Pay), and block OTA updates. We recommend backing up your data before changing your region.

      Method 2: Using third-party applications

      If changing the region doesn't help, you can use alternative solutions:

      • 📱 Google Fi (US only, requires US SIM card).
      • 🌍 DingTone or TextNow — applications for calling over Wi-Fi with a virtual number.
      • 💬 WhatsApp/Telegram — calls via instant messengers (but not via a standard number).

      On Xiaomi models with a MediaTek processor (e.g. Redmi 9A), Wi-Fi Calling may not work even after changing the region due to chipset limitations.

      Solving problems with Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi

      If Wi-Fi Calling isn't working after you set it up, try these troubleshooting steps:

      Problem 1: There is no "Wi-Fi Calling" option in the settings.

      Possible causes and solutions:

      • 📱 Outdated firmware → Update MIUI to the latest version through Settings → About phone → System update.
      • 🌐 Inappropriate region → Change the region to India or Europe (see section above).
      • 📶 The operator does not support VoLTE → Check the list of supported operators or replace your SIM card.

    Problem 2: Wi-Fi Calling turns on, but calls don't go through

    What to do:

    1. Switch from IPv6 on IPv4 in Wi-Fi settings (sometimes operators block VoWiFi over IPv6).
    2. Disable your VPN or proxy as they may interfere with call routing.
    3. Try a different Wi-Fi router (some public networks block VoIP traffic).

    Problem 3: The Wi-Fi Calling icon appears but quickly disappears

    This means the phone is trying to connect to the operator's servers but is unable to log in. Solutions:

    • 🔄 Restart your phone.
    • 📋 Re-register with your operator's network: ##4636## → Phone Information → Select SIM → Re-registration.
    • 📞 Call the operator's short number (for example, 0890 for Beeline) and request VoLTE reactivation.
    ⚠️ Important: If Wi-Fi Calling still doesn't work after trying all these steps, check whether your corporate Wi-Fi (e.g., at your office or university) is blocking the ports used for VoWiFi. To do this, try connecting to a different phone's mobile hotspot.

    Comparison of Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi and other brands

    VoWiFi technology is implemented differently on smartphones from different manufacturers. The table below shows the key differences. Xiaomi from competitors:

    Characteristic Xiaomi (MIUI) Samsung (One UI) Apple (iOS) Google (Pixel)
    Support without VoLTE ❌ Requires active VoLTE ✅ Works independently ✅ Works independently ✅ Works independently
    Change region for activation ✅ Possible (for example, to India) ❌ Blocked ❌ Not required ❌ Not required
    Working with two SIM cards ✅ Only on one SIM card ✅ On both SIM cards (on new models) ✅ On both SIM cards (iPhone 12 and newer) ✅ On both SIM cards
    eSIM support ❌ Only on flagships (12S Ultra, 13 Pro) ✅ On most models since 2020 ✅ All models with iOS 12.1+ ✅ All Pixel models
    Sound quality (HD Voice) ✅ Supported (depending on operator) ✅ Supported ✅ Supported ✅ Supported

    Xiaomi It loses out to its competitors in terms of VoWiFi configuration flexibility, but it wins due to the ability to manually patch the firmware. For example, Samsung or iPhone Changing the region to activate the function is not possible, whereas on Redmi This often solves the problem.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Can I use Wi-Fi Calling without a SIM card?

    No, for VoWiFi to work on Xiaomi An active SIM card with VoLTE support is required. However, you can make calls via messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) or apps like Google Voice without physical SIM.

    Why does my number appear as "Unknown" when I call over Wi-Fi?

    This occurs due to incorrect caller ID transmission by the operator. Solutions:

    1. Update your firmware to the latest version.
    2. Call the operator's short number (for example, 0880 for MTS) and request reactivation of the service.
    3. Try changing the firmware region to Europe.

    Will Wi-Fi Calling work when roaming?

    Yes, but with some reservations:

    • 🌍 Calls via Wi-Fi are not charged as roaming (they are billed as local calls).
    • 📡 However, authorization may require a connection to the operator's mobile network (even if the call is then made via Wi-Fi).
    • ⚠️ Some operators (for example, Tele2) block VoWiFi when roaming.

    How to disable Wi-Fi Calling on Xiaomi?

    Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → [Your SIM] → Wi-Fi Calling and deactivate the feature. You can also disable VoLTE—this will automatically deactivate VoWiFi.

    Does Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 support Wi-Fi Calling?

    Officially, no. However, some users report that after updating to MIUI 12.5 and change the region to India The feature is appearing. There are no guarantees, as it depends on the chipset version (the Snapdragon 660 does not support VoWiFi at the hardware level).