The best Xiaomi tricks to get the most out of MIUI and HyperOS

Android Guides » General » The best Xiaomi tricks to get the most out of MIUI and HyperOS

If you own a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone and feel like you're only using a fraction of what it offers, you've come to the right place. These custom interfaces, whether MIUI or HyperOSThey hide a huge number of settings, shortcuts, and functions that aren't always obvious at first glance, but that can completely change your day-to-day experience with your phone.

Below you will find a very complete compilation of tricks and settings to get the most out of your Xiaomi mobile: from take photos fasterFrom improving performance or saving battery, to ways to increase your privacy, customize the interface, or have almost "two phones in one" with duplicate spaces and apps.

Gestures, quick access, and more convenient navigation

One of the best ways to speed up mobile usage is to take advantage of the physical gestures and shortcutswhich are very well developed in Xiaomi and allow you to do many things without even fully unlocking the phone.

To open the camera instantly, you can configure it to... press the volume down button twice When the screen is locked, the camera app will launch directly. This option appears in Settings > Additional settings > Gesture shortcuts, where you can also use the power button to make the shortcut available even when the screen is on.

Within the same quick access section, MIUI allows you to activate the double-tap function on the screen To turn the panel on or off when it's locked, simply go to Always-on Display and Lock screen and enable "Double-tap to turn the screen on or off when the device is locked.” It’s perfect for checking notifications without touching physical buttons.

Interface navigation can also be improved by replacing the traditional three-button bar with full-screen gesturesFrom Settings > Home screen > System navigation, you can select "Gestures" and practice using them in the demos section. Once you get used to it, moving between apps and going back is much faster and frees up screen space.

In some models with a physical button dedicated to the assistant (the so-called AI ButtonYou can reassign actions for double-tap or long-press actions from Additional settings > Button and gesture shortcuts > AI button. This way, in addition to invoking the assistant with a single tap, you can use that button to open a specific app, activate the flashlight, or perform other common tasks.

The floating ball and other control shortcuts

MIUI includes its own version of an on-screen quick menu called floating ballIt's a small bubble that remains visible (or semi-transparent) and, when pressed, displays configurable shortcuts to functions such as screenshot, lock, quick launch of apps or go back.

To activate it, go to Settings > Additional settings > Floating ballFrom there, you can decide which side of the screen you want it to appear on, how it behaves when touched, and which specific shortcuts you want available. It's ideal if you prefer not to use the physical buttons as much or if you use your phone with one hand.

The notification shade and control center also have a battery of quick switches (toggles) For things like Wi-Fi, mobile data, Bluetooth, airplane mode, flashlight, power saving, and much more. In addition to turning them on or off with a tap, pressing and holding one will take you directly to that function's detailed settings, greatly speeding up the setup process.

These shortcuts can be rearranged and customized so that only the ones you actually use are at the top. Simply fully expand the Control Center and tap the edit icon to arrange the buttons to your liking.

Customizing the home and lock screens

The MIUI and HyperOS home screen is much more flexible than it first appears. You can adjust grids, icons, transition effects, and even how recent apps are displayed to achieve a customized look. a comfortable and clean desk your way.

If you're bothered by the empty space left behind when you uninstall an app, enable the option “Fill in the gaps left by uninstalled applications” In Settings > Home screen. The system will automatically rearrange the icons to compact the rows and eliminate any empty space.

From that same menu you have the "Home Screen Layout" setting, which allows you to choose between several grid configurations such as 4x6 or 5x6 icons. If you like to see many apps at once, a denser grid is the best option; if you prefer large, legible icons, stick with fewer columns.

You can also modify the "Icon Size" to make them larger or smaller according to your preferences, as well as enhance the feeling of fluidity by choosing a faster animation speed in Settings > Home screen > Animation speed.

Another interesting option is hiding the text under the icons. From the Home screen menu, you can activate "Don't show" and choose whether you want to hide the names of all apps and widgets or just widgets. This gives it a more streamlined look. minimalist and clean desk, something that has been further enhanced in HyperOS.

If you miss the classic Android app drawer, turn on With the application drawer In Settings > Home screen > Home screen > With app drawer. This way you can keep only the apps you want to have most readily available on your home screen, and the rest will be organized in the app drawer.

Finally, if you share your phone or simply don't want anyone messing up your home screen, press and hold an empty space on the home screen, go to settings, and enable "Lock Home screen layout." With this lock, No one will be able to move icons or delete widgets by accident.

Widgets and hidden features in HyperOS

HyperOS has taken another step in the intelligent use of widgets. One of the most interesting is the interactive Security widget, usually called “Safety – boost speed”, which allows you to free up RAM with a single tap from the desktop.

To add it, pinch the home screen with two fingers, go to the Widgets section, and find this module. After tapping "Add," place it wherever you prefer. Each time you tap the rocket icon, the system will close unnecessary processes and It will instantly improve the device's fluidity. without having to go into complicated menus.

HyperOS also hides the option to conceal app and widget names, which helps create a much more visually appealing home screen. You'll find this option in Settings > Home screen. “Do not show”where you can choose between hiding all app and widget names or only widget names, while keeping app names.

These types of options, combined with tight grids, minimalist backgrounds, and faster animations, allow you to build a a highly customized and different home screen without needing to install third-party launchers.

Wallpapers, themes, and boot animations

MIUI incorporates its own theme storeFrom there, you can change icons, backgrounds, ringtones, and even the lock screen style. One of the most striking features is the ability to modify the startup image or animation Of the device.

To do this, open the Themes app, tap your user account icon, go to “Customize theme” and select Startup imageOptions will only appear if you have themes installed that include this feature, so you may first need to download a compatible theme from the store.

Another thing you can customize is the animation that appears when you receive a notification. In Settings > Always-on display and Lock screen, you'll find an "Animation" section. There you can choose different visual effects that light up when you receive a notification, which is very useful if you use... the always-on display (AOD) or if you usually leave your mobile phone face up on the table.

The Always-On Display (AOD) itself is also configured in that menu, by activating "Always-On Display" and choosing a layout. You can choose between minimalist watches, more artistic styles or variants that display additional information, adjusting battery consumption to your liking.

Dark mode, Lite mode, and other ways to customize the interface

Dark mode has been fully integrated into MIUI for several versions now. You can activate it manually from Settings > Display, or schedule your automatic activation so it turns on at dusk or at a specific time. Besides reducing eye strain, it helps save battery life on AMOLED screens.

In this same section, many Xiaomi phones offer a "Lite Mode," designed for users who prefer a simplified interface, such as seniors or those upgrading from a very basic phone. Activating it in Settings > Home screen > Home screen > Lite mode makes the icons larger, reduces the number of visible elements, and simplifies navigation. It becomes much clearer and more direct..

On the other hand, the management of recent apps is also configurable. In Settings > Home screen > Organize items in Recents, you can change the multitasking layout, which by default is usually displayed in two columns of vertically scrollable cards. There you can also enable or disable recent app suggestions, as well as apply a blur effect on preview of certain apps, useful if you don't want their content to be visible when you open the multitasking view.

Within the Home screen settings, there is also an option to disable Google Discover (the news feed located on the left side of the desktop on some models). If you prefer a cleaner desktop without news, simply uncheck “Google Discover” to remove that page.

Application management: uninstall, duplicate, hide, and block

One of MIUI's strengths is the control it offers over installed applications. From Settings > Applications > Manage applications, you can access the complete list and, in the "Uninstall" tab, select delete multiple apps at once in bulk.It's much faster than going one by one from the desktop.

If you need to have two separate accounts for the same service (for example, two WhatsApp, two Instagram, or two Facebook accounts), you can use the feature of Dual applicationsYou'll find it in the Security app or in the last section of General Settings. There, you choose which apps you want to duplicate, and MIUI will create a second icon for each one, with separate data and ideal compatibility for dual-SIM phones.

In addition, the Security app includes a "Hide apps" section that lets you select which apps you don't want to be visible in the launcher. These apps are hidden, and only you can access them using a pattern, PIN, or biometric method, helping to maintain security. certain privacy regarding sensitive tools such as banking, messaging, or photo galleries.

In the same general settings area is "App Lock," which lets you password-protect specific apps. Once activated, every time someone tries to open one of those apps, MIUI will ask for the pattern or fingerprint, regardless of whether the phone is already unlocked. This way you can lend your phone without fear of people snooping where they shouldn't..

Finally, if you're having trouble with late notifications or apps closing unexpectedly, it's a good idea to check how the system handles them. Press and hold an app icon, go to "App info," and open "Battery saver." If you select Without restrictionsThis will prevent the power manager from killing that background app and you'll miss out on important messages or notifications.

Duplicate space: Second space and private folders/files

Beyond app duplication, MIUI offers a feature called second space This essentially creates a separate user environment within the same mobile device. It's similar to having two completely different desktops, each with its own apps, accounts, and files.

When you activate Second Space from the general settings, the system will ask you to configure an access method (password, PIN, fingerprint, etc.). From there, you will be able to alternate between the main and secondary spacesThey won't share the same installed apps or data. It's a very practical solution for separating work and personal life or for having a restricted environment to share with other people.

In terms of storage, Xiaomi's own file manager includes a "Lock Files" option. From the internal menu, you can select documents, folders, or images and move them to a secure area. protected by the same pattern or code Used for app locking. So, even if someone has the phone in their hand, they won't be able to see those files without the password.

The file manager app itself also allows you to create private folders with the option “To make private” This appears when you select an item and tap "More". This way you can hide content without needing external apps, keeping everything within the MIUI ecosystem.

Camera: shortcuts, customization, and scanning

The cameras on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones aren't just for taking photos; they're full of little details that make them... daily use becomes much more efficient If you know them. We've already seen the trick of opening the camera with the volume button, but there are a few more, and you can also try alternatives like GCAM if you're looking for improvements in focus and processing.

Within the camera app you will find a setting called Volume button actionsThere you can decide if you want them to be used as a shutter release, for zooming, or for controlling the device's volume while taking photos or recording video. Assigning them to zoom, for example, is very convenient when you're holding the phone with one hand.

In Settings > Video, there's a very useful option called "Record with screen off." Activating it allows you to start recording, and after a while, or when you lock your device, the screen will turn off, but the camera will continue recording. It will continue recording to save battery. and avoid accidental touches.

The camera interface is also customizable in terms of color. In Settings > Customize > Colors, you can choose the color scheme for texts and buttons to better suit your taste or to make it more easily recognizable.

Regarding document and code scanning, MIUI offers two methods. In photo mode, simply point the camera at a QR code and an overlay icon will appear; tapping it will recognize the content. For documents, select "Document" mode in the camera app, frame the document, and take the picture: the phone will crop and adjust the image. as if it were a portable scannerAnd if you prefer something dedicated, there's always the "Scanner" app, designed to read both QR codes and barcodes.

Private gallery and album

Xiaomi's Gallery app includes a feature called private albumwhere you can hide photos and videos you don't want to appear with the rest of your memories. To use it, select one or more images, tap "Add to album," and choose "Private album." These photos will be hidden and you can only view them by entering the corresponding pattern, PIN, or fingerprint.

This system leverages the same security layer as locked apps and private files, so it integrates seamlessly with MIUI's philosophy of offering multiple layers of protection without requiring additional installation. It's especially useful if I usually lend my phone to show photos And you don't want the person to see more than they should while scrolling through the gallery.

Safety, maintenance and optimization

The Security app is one of the pillars of the Xiaomi ecosystem. From it, you can free up space, control data usage, manage permissions, and much more, all in one place designed for... keep your mobile phone in good condition without the need for external tools.

On its main screen you will find a button cleaner It analyzes caches, residual files, installation packages, and other data that can be safely deleted. You can also review in detail which apps are taking up the most space and uninstall those you no longer use directly from there, or even follow guides to remove ads and bloatware if you notice that the system comes with annoying apps or ads.

Another interesting section is “Dual apps,” which we’ve already discussed, and “Hide apps.” From Security, you can also access a wizard called "Solve problems" It reviews aspects such as connectivity, performance, or common errors and guides you step by step to fix them without having technical knowledge.

The app itself offers a "Check Network" tool that analyzes your internet connection, both Wi-Fi and mobile data, and tells you if there are any signal, DNS, or configuration problems. It's especially useful when you notice that your phone is slow. It doesn't browse well, but you don't know if it's the operator's problem or the Wi-Fi..

Finally, in the battery settings, you can activate "Extreme Battery Saver," a mode that severely limits phone functions, reduces screen brightness, stops background processes, and leaves only a few essential apps running. It's perfect for emergencies, long trips, or days when you know you won't be near a power outlet for many hours.

Connectivity and privacy control

MIUI and HyperOS allow you to fine-tune which apps have network access and control over your information. For example, if you want an app to only work offline, you can block his internet connection selectively.

To do this, press and hold the app icon, go to “App info”, and tap on “Restricting the use of data” Uncheck both the Wi-Fi and mobile data boxes. From that moment on, that app will not be able to connect to the network, even if the rest of the system is connected.

In Settings > Privacy, there's an option called "Show clipboard access." Enabling it will notify you every time an app reads content copied to the clipboard, which is very useful for detecting unwanted activity. suspicious behavior or overly curious apps with your data.

Notifications and lock screen

Notification management in MIUI is organized into several sections—and you can View notification history—, but once you understand where everything is, you can adapt them exactly to your likingIn Settings > Notifications and status bar you have the list of all apps to enable or disable their notifications and choose how they are displayed.

From section “Lock screen and password” You can choose whether you want the screen to light up when you receive a notification, and whether the message content appears in full, only partially, or not at all on the lock screen. This is key if you're worried someone might read your messages without unlocking your phone.

Regarding sound, notification, ring, and alarm tones are configured in Settings > Sound and vibration. Here you can also activate different vibration patterns and specific effects for each type of notification, something that It makes it easier to know what has happened without looking at the screen.

Additionally, the lock screen provides shortcuts to tools such as Mi Remote (the infrared remote control) and the flashlight. Simply swipe or tap on these areas to use them without needing to fully unlock the device.

Connectivity, My Remote and extra tools

If your Xiaomi phone includes an infrared emitter, the Mi Remote app lets you control TVs, air conditioners, and other compatible devices. Once set up, you can register multiple controllers and switch between them from a simple interface. A quick access shortcut will even appear on the lock screen to use the controller without unlocking the phone.

When talking about connectivity, we can't forget the ease of sharing Wi-Fi networks using QR codes. If you're already connected to a network, go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap on the current network, and you'll see an option to display a QR code. Any other device can scan it with its camera or with the Scanner app. Connect to the network without typing the password.

In the calls section, MIUI offers the possibility of record them automatically or selectivelyGo to Settings > System apps > Call settings. From there you can specify whether you want to record all calls or only those from certain numbers, as well as configure block lists and gestures to quickly silence an incoming call.

As you can see, Xiaomi's interface includes many small utilities that, when used correctly, transform your phone into a very powerful tool. From the battery manager to Mi Remote and the Security app, everything is designed so that Don't constantly rely on third-party applications.

Device information, backups, and diagnostic mode

In the "About phone" menu of Settings you can find detailed information about specifications of your mobileThis includes the Android version, security patch level, and hardware information. By going into "Android Security Information" and other subsections, you'll find everything related to updates and components.

From “MIUI version” (or “HyperOS Version” on models that already have it) You can check for pending updates and, before installing them, tap “Discover What’s New” to see exactly what changes they include. This way you’ll know what improvements or design changes to expect before you hit the update button.

In the same settings section, you'll find the "Backup and Restore" option. Here, you can create local backups on a computer, instead of relying solely on the cloud. This backup can include apps, data, and system settings, so if you switch phones or need to restore your data, you lose practically nothing.

Finally, MIUI hides a secret diagnostic mode called CITDesigned for technicians but accessible to any user, this tool allows you to access the hardware diagnostics tool by going to Settings > About phone > Size and specifications information and tapping repeatedly on “Kernel version” until a hardware testing menu opens. From there, you can check sensors, the touchscreen, cameras, battery, and other components to detect potential physical problems.

All these features and tricks make Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones much more complete devices than they appear out of the box. Spending some time exploring gestures, shortcuts, security options, home screen customization, maintenance tools, and advanced features like Second Space or dual apps makes it easy. to make the phone adapt to the way you use itand not the other way around, with a smoother, safer and more comfortable experience in everyday life.