The flash function for an incoming call is not just a visual effect, but an essential element of accessibility for users with hearing impairments. In brand smartphones Xiaomi, including the series Redmi, this option is often hidden deep in the system settings or is completely disabled by default in the firmware MIUI. Understanding how to activate this mode will help you avoid missing an important call in a noisy place or when the phone is face down.
The shell interface MIUI is regularly updated, and the location of the switches may change from version to version. However, the basic principle of operation notification flashes remains unchanged: the system uses the camera hardware module to supply light signals. In this article, we will analyze in detail standard activation methods, the nuances of working with specific phone models, and ways to bypass restrictions if the standard menu does not offer the desired function.
Before you start setting up, make sure that your battery is at least 15-20% charged. Constantly firing the LED or main flash consumes power, and when battery power is low, the system may automatically disable this feature to save resources. In addition, check if you have the mode turned on Energy saving, which often disables background visual effects.
Native MIUI settings for flash on calls
In most modern Redmi models, the path to activating the function is through the standard “Phone” application. Xiaomi developers have included this option in the call settings so that users can quickly enable or disable it without diving deep into system menus. However, it is worth considering that on global versions of the firmware the item may be called differently than in the Chinese version HyperOS or MIUI.
First, open the application Phone and find the menu icon, which is usually represented by three dots or stripes in the upper right corner. By clicking on it, you will see a drop-down list where you need to select the item Settings. This is where the main dialing parameters are concentrated, including blocking numbers, recording conversations and visual effects.
In the menu that opens, scroll down the list to the “Incoming calls” section. Here you should find a switch named Flash on call or Flash on call. Activating this toggle switch starts the blinking mechanism of the main camera flash when an incoming connection arrives. If the switch is gray and inactive, the function may be blocked by system restrictions or a conflict with another application.
In some cases, especially on older Redmi models, this item may be located in the “Advanced” subsection. If you do not see the desired option right away, carefully examine all the available tabs in the call settings menu.
If the "Flash on call" switch is not in the menu, try updating the "Phone" application through the GetApps or Google Play store to the latest version.
Settings through the "Accessibility" section
If in the menu There is no dialer for the required item, the Android system provides an alternative path through the global accessibility settings. This method is universal for the entire Android ecosystem and often duplicates functions that manufacturers have included in their shells. Here the function is often called Flash notification and covers not only calls, but also SMS.
Go to the main menu Settings of your Redmi smartphone. In the search bar at the top, enter "flash" or "accessibility" to quickly find the section you're looking for. If the search does not produce results, follow the path: Settings → Advanced settings → Accessibility. In the list of categories, select the “Hearing” tab.
In this section you will see an item Flash notification. Clicking on it will take you to the control menu, where you can activate the function for different types of events. The system will prompt you to choose which signals the backlight should trigger: incoming calls, messages or notifications from applications.
Pay attention to the system warning that using the flash may drain the battery faster than usual. This is a standard message, but for owners of old batteries it is really relevant. After turning on the switch, be sure to test the function by asking someone to call you while the smartphone screen is off.
☑️ Checking the flash operation
Features of working on different versions of Android and MIUI
Users often encounter a situation where a function works perfectly on one Redmi model, but on another, even with similar characteristics, it does not. This is due to differences in the versions of the operating system Android and layer MIUI. Starting with Android 10 and higher, Google has tightened the rules for application access to the hardware flash, which affected the implementation of this function by manufacturers.
In versions MIUI 12 and MIUI 13 the logic of the flash has undergone changes: it began to synchronize with the rhythm of the ringtone, creating a more noticeable visual effect. At the same time, in more recent builds HyperOS this effect has sometimes been simplified to simple periodic flashes to reduce processor load.
Below is a table showing differences in the availability of the function depending on the software version and device model. Data collected based on analysis of user reports and official update changelogs.
| Redmi model | MIUI / HyperOS version | Setting location | Flash type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10 | MIUI 12.5 | Settings calls | Rhythmic |
| Redmi 9A | MIUI 11 | Special features | Periodic |
| Redmi Note 12 | MIUI 14 | Call settings | Rhythmic |
| Redmi 13C | HyperOS 1.0 | Special features | Simple |
Owners of devices with older firmware versions should consider updating, as new versions often contain bug fixes related to the operation of peripheral devices, including LEDs. However, before updating, it is recommended to make a backup copy of your data, since the flashing process can lead to loss of information.
Why does the function disappear after the update?
Sometimes after a major update, the system settings are reset to factory settings, or developers temporarily remove the function for improvement, returning it in the next patch.
Using third-party applications for flashes
When the standard smartphone tools do not cope with the task or the interface is too confusing, applications from the store Google Playcome to the rescue. There are many utilities that specialize solely in controlling flash for calls and notifications. They often offer more flexible settings than standard firmware.
One of the popular solutions is an application Flash Alert or its analogues. Such apps run on top of the system and intercept the incoming call event, forcing the LED to activate. This allows you to bypass the restrictions imposed by the manufacturer on certain phone models.
- 🔦 Flexibility of settings: you can choose the blinking frequency, color (if there is RGB backlighting) and flash duration.
- 📱 Working with the screen: some applications can blink the screen instead of a flash, which saves battery power.
- ⚙️ Profiles: the ability to create different scenarios for daytime and nighttime.
When installing third-party software, be careful about the requested permissions. The application will definitely need access to Camera and Phoneto know about the incoming call and control the flash. Avoid apps with a dubious reputation that require access to contacts or geolocation without a good reason.
Problem solving: why the flashlight does not blink
Even after correct settings, users may encounter that the flash does not works at the right moment. The most common reason is the camera running in the background. If you have the camera application, QR code scanner or flashlight open in manual mode, the system blocks access to the flash module for calls, since the resource is already occupied.
It is also worth checking the mode "Do Not Disturb". In this mode, the phone can block not only sound and vibration, but also visual notifications, including light signals. Go to the Do Not Disturb mode settings and make sure that the “Allow visual notifications” or similar item is activated.
⚠️ Attention: Prolonged use of the flash during calls can lead to overheating of the camera module. If you notice that the phone gets very hot around the lens, temporarily disable this feature to prevent damage to the equipment.
Another reason may be a conflict with the themes. Some custom themes in the store MIUI Themes change the system files responsible for the lock screen and notifications, which may interfere with the operation of the flash. Try switching to the standard theme and checking the function again.
The main reason for flash failure is that the camera module is busy with another application or an active power saving mode.
Setting up the flash for messenger notifications
Often users need the flashlight to blink not only when making a call, but also when receiving messages in WhatsApp, Telegram or Viber. It is more difficult to implement this using standard Android tools, since the system separates the concepts of “incoming call” and “application notification”.
In the Accessibility → Flash notification section there is often a checkbox “Enable for notifications”. By activating it, you will make the phone blink whenever there is any system sound. However, this can lead to random blinking when receiving advertising mailings or likes on social networks.
For more precise settings, it is better to use the third-party applications mentioned above. They allow you to create a “white list” of applications for which the flash will fire. You can set blinking only for important contacts or specific messengers, ignoring the rest of the information noise.
Remember that constant activation of the flash with each message can be noticeable to others in the dark and attract unnecessary attention. Use this feature with caution in movie theaters, meetings, or at night when sleeping near other people.
⚠️ Attention: The settings interface may vary slightly depending on the regional firmware version (Global, EU, Russia). If you do not find the items described, check the official manual for your specific model on the manufacturer's website.
To save battery at night, you can use automation (for example, through the MacroDroid application) to turn on the flash when calling only at certain hours.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to customize the flash color on Redmi?
Unfortunately, most Redmi smartphones are equipped with a monochrome flash LED, which only shines with white or slightly yellowish light. It is impossible to change the color in hardware. Some apps simulate color by flashing the screen quickly in different colors, but this is not the job of the main flash.
Why does the flash only blink once?
It may be a setting in the Accessibility section where the "Blink Once" mode is selected. Also check if you have an outdated version of the firmware that had bugs with signal cycling. Try restarting the device.
Does the flash affect the life of the camera?
LEDs have a long service life, but intensive use (constant flashing during long calls) can lead to their gradual burnout or decrease in brightness over time. Under normal conditions of use when making calls, the risk is minimal.
Does the flash work if the phone is face down?
Yes, the proximity sensor and accelerometer do not block the flash in this position. Moreover, this is an ideal position for using this function, since the light is more visible on the table surface than if the phone is lying face up.
How to disable the flash only for unknown numbers?
It is impossible to separate the flash settings for different contacts using standard MIUI tools. The function works globally for all incoming messages. To implement this task, you will need to install a third-party dialer application with advanced profiling functions.