Customization is one of Xiaomi's great strengths with HyperOS, The software layer that accompanies its phones and has evolved to offer users more control over the startup experience, themes, and default apps. From the first boot to the final icon adjustment, Xiaomi owners can modify a significant portion of their device's appearance and behavior.
This approach in put customization in the hands of the user It doesn't just cover purely aesthetic elements, but also app management and the way we interact with the screen and the system. Let's take a detailed look at everything you can change in the startup and interface thanks to HyperOS, and how to give your device a unique touch.
Configure startup and default apps in HyperOS
One of the keys to customization in Xiaomi mobiles with HyperOS is the possibility of choose which applications open which type of file or task (browser, email, gallery, music, etc.). From Settings, you can access default app management by going to Settings > Apps > Manage apps > Three-dot menu > Other settings > Default apps.
The system allows you to customize the default behavior to your liking, whether you're opening links with your preferred browser, choosing which camera app to use, or changing the home launcher. Additionally, Xiaomi has continued to refine this system in HyperOS, making the process even easier than previous generations such as MIUI 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14.
Start screen and full screen mode in HyperOS
Customizing your home screen also involves deciding how your home screen is displayed when you unlock your phone. HyperOS offers options like keeping the traditional grid with the app drawer or choosing an alternative launcher like POCO Launcher or Nova Launcher, famous for their high levels of customization in icons, gestures and transitions.
To make the most of your screen's edges, HyperOS integrates a full-screen mode. Simply go to Settings > Home Screen > System Navigation and select the option to use gestures instead of physical on-screen buttons. This option frees up space, makes the interface more fluid, and allows you to quickly navigate between apps. You can activate the gesture indicator or hide it, as you prefer.
Themes, backgrounds, and visual settings
In addition to changing default apps and the launcher, Xiaomi makes it easy to customize your home screen with themes and wallpapers. With the Themes app, you can Change the appearance of icons, the status bar, the lock style, and even sound effects.Official themes are added to those from the user community, allowing you to import designs from around the world. You can mix and match parts from different themes and save copies of your settings.
Recently, Xiaomi has added animated backgrounds and new visual options with HyperOS, including dynamic wallpapers that bring your desktop to life. If you want to go even further, you can create your own theme from scratch with tools like Theme Creator for MIUI or Theme Editor, customizing every detail to your liking.
AI tools and new developments in personalization
With HyperOS 2.2, Xiaomi has enhanced the functions to edit and organize the home and gallery through tools powered by artificial intelligenceIt's now possible to retouch photos by changing facial expressions, modifying lighting, performing magic cropping, removing unwanted elements, and even converting videos into animated photos. Many of these enhancements are reserved for recent models from the brand, but they pave the way for ever more advanced customization.
Another new feature is the improved storage and backup management, integrating photo synchronization with iPhone and a much more intuitive file cleanup from within the system itself. All of this contributes to a more tailored start and daily experience tailored to each user's tastes.
Management and security when switching apps from startup
Is it safe to modify the default startup applications in HyperOS? Except in very specific cases (such as banking apps or critical functions), you can manage which apps open for each task at will, and even delete or uninstall many of the native ones. Changing default apps doesn't pose any risk, although it's recommended to always download replacements from reliable sources like the Google Play Store.
If you want to restore the original state, there is a function to return to factory apps with a single tap ensuring that the phone works the same as the first day.
In short, HyperOS continues to expand the options for deciding how your Xiaomi experience begins and develops. From the launcher to gestures, themes, wallpapers, app settings, and new AI-based features, customizing your phone's startup and appearance is simple, intuitive, and, above all, reversible if you choose. You'll just have to explore every corner of the settings menu to find the exact configuration that makes your Xiaomi feel truly yours.
