Modern smartphones in the Xiaomi Redmi series offer a unique feature that allows you to turn one device into two independent gadgets. The technology Second space divides the system into two isolated profiles, each of which has its own applications, contacts, photos and settings. This is an ideal option for those who want to clearly separate work information from personal information or provide access to the device to a child without worrying about their private data.
The implementation of this function at the operating system level MIUI allows you to switch between modes in a matter of seconds. You don't need third-party apps or complicated manipulations with superuser rights. A few clicks in the settings menu are enough to start the process of creating a virtual copy of your interface. It is important to understand that this is not just “guest mode”, but a full-fledged environment with its own file system.
In this guide, we will examine in detail the process of activating, configuring and managing two spaces on your device. You'll learn how to transfer files, set up different login passwords, and optimize system performance. We will also touch on the nuances associated with performance and data security when using a dual profile.
Preparing the device and checking compatibility
Before you start setting up, you need to make sure that your device supports this function. Almost all smartphones with versions 8 and higher have a built-in module for working with multiple users. However, the interface may vary slightly depending on the firmware version (Global, China, EEA). Redmi And Xiaomi with shell MIUI versions 8 and higher have a built-in module for working with multiple users. However, the interface may vary slightly depending on the firmware version (Global, China, EEA).
Make sure your phone has enough free memory. Creating a second profile requires allocating additional disk space for system files and application cache. If the storage is full, the system may warn you that it is impossible to create a new space or work unstable.
⚠️ Attention: The function may be hidden or absent on some models with very old versions of Android or in specific regional firmware. If you do not find the item in the menu, check for system updates in the section Settings → About phone.
It is also recommended to back up important data before making major changes to the system structure, although the process of creating a profile usually does not affect files in the main space. This is a standard precaution when working with system settings.
Before activating the second space, clear at least 2-3 GB of free memory so that the system can correctly deploy the necessary files for the new profile without errors.
Step-by-step guide for activating the second profile
The process of launching the function is intuitive and takes only a couple of minutes. You need to go to the main settings menu of your smartphone. Find the section usually called Second space. In some versions MIUI it may be located inside a subsection Advanced settings or Special features.
After entering the appropriate menu, the system will prompt you to familiarize yourself with function capabilities. Click the button Enable second space. The device will begin the initialization process, which may take from 30 seconds to several minutes depending on the speed of your processor Redmi.
During setup, you will be asked to choose a method for switching between profiles. This is a critical step that determines usability. You can set up a quick transition using a fingerprint or through a special shortcut in the notification curtain.
☑️ Activating the second space
When the system has completed preparation, you will see a welcome screen similar to what you saw when you first set up your phone. This means that you have successfully entered the second space. Now you can install applications and configure it as a separate device.
Setting up switching and security methods
One of the main features of the function is the ability to use different unlocking methods for each profile. This ensures a high level of confidentiality. You can configure it so that one finger opens the personal space and the other opens the work space.
To configure, go to the second space management menu from the main profile. Section Switching between spacesis available here. Activate the option to use your fingerprint. The system will ask you to place your finger, which will be used exclusively to enter the second profile.
- 🔒 Fingerprint: the fastest and safest way to instantly switch without entering passwords.
- 🔢 Pattern: you can set a unique pattern for each space so as not to get confused.
- 📱 Curtain Shortcut: A handy toggle that appears in the notification panel for quick access.
If you prefer to use PIN codes, make sure they are different. Using the same codes may confuse the system or reduce security. In the security settings, you can also hide notifications from the second space on the main profile lock screen.
What to do if the fingerprint does not work?
If the configured finger does not open the second space, try cleaning the sensor from moisture or dirt. Also check in the settings whether the priority of fingerprints has been lost after updating the system.
Data transfer and synchronization between profiles
Users often wonder how to move files between two isolated worlds. Despite the division, MIUI provides a convenient tool for data transfer. You can transfer contacts, photos, videos and even installed applications.
To do this, in the second space management menu, find the item Data Transfer. The system will prompt you to select the type of content you want to copy. The process occurs inside the device and does not require an Internet connection or the use of cloud storage.
| Data type | Transfer speed | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Contact | Instantly | Copied without duplication |
| Photos and Video | Depends on the volume | Takes up double the amount of memory |
| Applications | Average | Requires re-login to accounts |
| Notes | Instantly | Text is transferred in full |
Please note that when transferring applications, their data (logins, progress in games) is not copied automatically. You will have to log in again in the second space. This is done for security purposes so that personal sessions do not overlap.
Transferring files takes up space in both spaces. Deleting a file in one profile will not delete its copy in the other - these are completely independent stores.
Managing notifications and privacy
Separating information flows is a key task when using two profiles. You can flexibly configure which notifications from the second space will be displayed in the first, and vice versa. By default, the system strives to isolate these flows as much as possible.
In the settings of the second space there is an item Notifications. Here you can prevent the contents of messages from being displayed on the lock screen of your main profile. This ensures that when the phone is locked, strangers will not see work chats or personal correspondence from the hidden profile.
⚠️ Attention: Calls and SMS from the second space may not appear in the call log of the main profile. Check the call history within each space separately so as not to miss an important contact.
It is also worth considering the work of background processes. Applications in the second space can consume RAM even when you are in the main profile. If you notice a decrease in performance, try limiting the background activity of heavy applications in the battery settings.
Deleting the second space and resetting settings
If the need for separation is no longer necessary, you can easily delete the second profile. All data inside it will be irretrievably lost, so before deleting, be sure to transfer important files to the main profile or to your computer.
To delete, go to the settings of the second space and select Delete second space. The system will ask you to confirm the action and warn you about data loss. Once confirmed, the process will take a few minutes, during which the phone may reboot.
An alternative option is to completely reset the device to factory settings. This will remove both spaces and return the phone to its original state. This method is recommended to be used only in extreme cases, for example, when system errors occur that cannot be corrected otherwise.
- 🗑️ Complete deletion: erases all data of the second profile forever.
- 💾 Backup: be sure to save photos and documents before deleting.
- 🔄 Reset: returns the phone to its factory state, deleting both profiles.
After deletion, the free space on the drive will become available for use in the main profile. The system will automatically redistribute resources, which can have a positive effect on the speed of the device.
Is it possible to use different Google accounts in two spaces?
Yes, this is one of the main features of the function. You can log into the main profile under one account Google, and add a completely different one to the second space. This allows you to share purchases in Play Market, contact synchronization and search history.
Does the second space affect battery life?
Yes, having an active second profile may slightly increase battery consumption, since the system maintains two sets of background processes. However, with proper configuration and limiting background activity, the difference will be almost unnoticeable in everyday use.
What will happen to bank applications when using the second space?
Banking applications may require additional security checks or may not run in the second space due to Android security restrictions. Some banks block the operation of their applications if they detect the presence of multiple user profiles or superuser rights.
How to hide the second space icon from the desktop?
In the settings of the second space, you can disable the display of the switching shortcut on the main screen. Access will remain only through the notification curtain or through a configured fingerprint, which will make the presence of a second profile less noticeable to others.
Is it possible to restore a deleted second space?
No, restoring a deleted second space is impossible. After confirming the deletion, all data is erased without the possibility of recovery using standard means. The only chance is if you made a full backup of the system in advance via Mi Cloud or a computer before deleting.