Owners of Xiaomi smartphones are often faced with the need to restrict access to certain apps on their device. This may be due to the desire to protect personal photos, banking services, or simply remove rarely used software from the main screen so as not to clutter up the space. The model Redmi 9working on the shell MIUIoffers built-in tools for solving this task, but their location is not always obvious to beginners.
Hide a app icon is not the same as deleting it. The data remains on the device, but becomes invisible to prying eyes during normal use of the interface. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the available methods for hiding applications, from standard system functions to using third-party launchers, ensuring maximum confidentiality of your data.
Before you start setting up, you should understand that the methods may differ slightly depending on the version of the installed firmware. Developers Xiaomi periodically update the interface, changing the paths to settings, so it is important to carefully monitor the names of menu items, which will be described below.
Using the built-in function of hiding applications
The most reliable and secure way is to use the native function of the system MIUI. It allows you to hide application icons directly from the Settings menu, without requiring the installation of additional software. This method is ideal for those who want to quickly remove apps from the desktop without losing functionality.
To activate this option, you need to go to the main settings menu of your Redmi 9. Scroll down to the Apps section and select Hide Apps. In some firmware versions, this path may look like Settings → Passwords and security → Hide apps. If you don't find this item right away, use the search bar at the top of the settings screen.
After going to the corresponding menu, you will see a list of all installed apps. Just switch the toggle switch opposite the desired application to the active position. The icon will instantly disappear from the desktop and from the menu of all applications. It is important to note that apps hidden in this way can still be found through the global system search, unless you disable this option further.
For maximum effect, disable the display of hidden applications in system search results in the same privacy settings.
To return the application to a prominent place, just go back to the hide menu and turn off the toggle switch. This action will only take a couple of seconds and will not require rebooting the device. The built-in mechanism works stably and does not affect the operation of notifications from hidden apps.
Access to hidden applications through a set of code
Many users do not know that in the shell MIUI there is a special gesture or code for calling a folder with hidden applications. This adds an additional level of convenience and security, since access to hidden content is carried out not through the standard menu, but through secret input in the “Phone” application.
By default, to open hidden applications, you need to launch the standard “dialer” and enter a special code. Most often this is a sequence ##6484## or simply a set of a specific password, which you can set yourself in the hiding settings. However, in modern versions MIUI the gesture in the Themes or Gallery application is more often used, but for applications input in the call manager works.
The process of setting up a secret code is as follows:
- 📱 Go to the settings for hiding applications.
- 🔒 Find the item "Access to hidden applications" or "Password".
- ⌨️ Create and enter a digital code or pattern that is convenient for you.
- ✅ Confirm the action and try entering the code in the "Phone" application.
After entering the correct code in the dialing field, a separate space will open where all your hidden icons. This allows you to keep personal apps completely isolated from the main interface. If you forget the code, restoring access is only possible through the account Mi Accountlinked to the device.
Setting up password and fingerprint protection
Simply hiding the icon does not guarantee complete data protection if the device falls into the hands of a knowledgeable person. It Redmi 9 recommended to additionally activate password protection for the hidden applications themselves or use the "Application Protection" function. This will create a double barrier for prying eyes.
The "Application Protection" function is located in the same "Passwords and Security" section. By activating it, you can select apps that will require you to enter a password, pattern, or fingerprint each time you start it. Even if the icon is not hidden, you will not be able to launch the app without authorization.
To set up biometric protection, follow these steps:
- 👆 Go to
Settings → Passwords and security → Application protection. - 🔐 Set a protection password, if it is not already installed.
- 🧩 Select applications that require protection from the list.
- 👁️ Turn on the "Fingerprint unlock" option for quick access.
Using a fingerprint significantly speeds up the process of logging into protected apps. The sensor on Redmi 9 works quite quickly and accurately recognizes the fingerprint even in difficult conditions. However, remember that when rebooting the device, the first login always requires entering the main password or pattern.
⚠️ Attention: If you forget the application protection password and do not link your Xiaomi account, it will be almost impossible to restore access to protected data without resetting the phone settings.
Using third-party launchers to hide icons
If the built-in capabilities MIUI seem insufficient to you or the interface does not suit you, you can install a third-party launcher. apps like Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher or Microsoft Launcher offer advanced desktop management functions, including flexible icon visibility settings.
After installing a third-party launcher, it will become the main interface of your smartphone. In the settings of such a launcher there is usually a section “Hidden applications” or “App Drawer”. There you can select apps that will not appear in the general list. This method is especially convenient for those who like to customize the appearance of their device.
However, it is worth considering that the use of third-party shells can lead to increased battery consumption and a slight decrease in system performance compared to the stock one. MIUI. In addition, some Xiaomi system functions may not work correctly under the control of a third-party launcher.
Compatibility of launchers with MIUI
Some MIUI control gestures may conflict with gestures of third-party launchers. It is recommended to disable system gestures in your phone settings before installing a new interface.
To install the launcher, download it from Google Play Market, launch it and follow the instructions on the screen. The system will prompt you to select a default application for the main screen - select the installed launcher. After this, you can customize widgets, themes and hide unnecessary icons through the menu of the launcher itself.
Creating a second space for complete isolation
The most radical and reliable method of hiding applications on Redmi 9 is to use the "Second Space" function. This technology creates a completely isolated environment inside your smartphone, which works as a separate phone with its own settings, accounts and applications.
Switching between the main and second space occurs using a fingerprint or a special password. To an outsider, your phone will look like a regular device with a set of neutral apps, while the second space may contain all your personal data.
To activate this function:
- Open
Settings → Second space. - Click the "Enable second space" button space."
- Customize the switching method (fingerprint or password).
- Move or install the desired applications to the second space.
The advantage of this method is complete data isolation. Applications installed in the second space are not visible in the first, and vice versa. Notifications are also separated, allowing you to keep work and personal chats strictly separate. This is an ideal solution for those who want to divide their digital life into two independent parts.
| Hide method | Protection level | Setting complexity | Impact on battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in hiding | Low | Minimum | No |
| Password protection | Medium | Low | No |
| Third-party launcher | Average | Average | Minor |
| Second Space | High | High | Medium |
Second Space provides maximum privacy because data is physically separated at the system level rather than just hidden visually.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
When setting up hiding applications, users may encounter a number of technical nuances. For example, after a firmware update, your hiding settings may be reset, or hidden applications may begin to appear in notifications on the lock screen. These problems can be solved, but require careful attention.
If a hidden application continues to show notifications, go to the notification settings for the specific app and turn off the display of content on the lock screen. Also check the Always On Screen settings if this feature is active on your Redmi 9.
Sometimes users complain that they cannot find the hide applications menu. This is often due to the fact that in different firmware regions (Global, China, EEA) the paths to the settings may differ. In this case, use the settings search by entering the keywords “hide” or “privacy”.
⚠️ Attention: The MIUI interface is constantly updated. If the described paths do not match your screen, use the built-in search in the settings menu to find the desired item.
Another common problem is the inability to hide system applications. Indeed, many critical system components are protected from being hidden to avoid phone instability. Do not try to bypass these restrictions via root access without proper experience, as this may lead to the device being “bricked.”
☑️ Diagnosing problems with hiding
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to hide applications on Redmi 9 without installing additional apps?
Yes, the MIUI shell has a built-in function for hiding applications, which is available in the system settings. It does not require the installation of third-party software and works stably on all official firmware.
Will notifications from hidden applications be received?
By default, notifications continue to arrive. To hide them, you need to additionally configure notification settings for each application in the “Notifications and status bar” section.
What should I do if I forgot the password for hidden applications?
If you have linked your Mi Account, you can reset the password through it. If the account has not been linked, the only way is to completely reset the phone, which will delete all data.
Does hiding applications affect the performance of a smartphone?
No, hiding icons in itself does not affect performance. However, using the Second Space feature or heavy third-party launchers may slightly increase battery consumption.
Is it possible to hide standard Xiaomi applications, such as Gallery?
Most standard applications can be hidden through the built-in settings. However, some system components can be protected from hiding to ensure system stability.