How to put a PIN code on the application in Xiaomi: a complete guide with pictures and tips

Protecting personal data on Xiaomi is not just a recommendation, it’s a necessity in the era of digital threats. One of the most effective ways to protect sensitive information is to install a PIN code on individual applications, a feature that is especially relevant for instant messengers, banking applications, gallery or social networks where your photos, correspondence and financial data are stored.

Unlike full-screen locking, the PIN on the app works selectively: you only protect programs that contain sensitive information without complicating everyday smartphone use. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to activate this feature on Xiaomi devices with a MIUI 14/15 shell, including nuances for different models (for example, Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T).

Why you should protect your applications with a PIN code on Xiaomi

Xiaomi smartphones are often targeted by scammers because of the brand’s popularity and the openness of the Android platform. Here are the key reasons why setting up a PIN code on apps is not paranoia, but a sensible measure:

• 🔒 Data theft protection: Even if someone gets physical access to your phone (such as at work or on public transport), they won’t be able to open secure apps without a PIN code.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Access Control for Children: If you give your child a phone to play, blocking instant messengers or payment systems will prevent accidental purchases or sending messages.
• 📱 Additional layer of security: Even if an attacker unlocks the screen (for example, through a fingerprint while you sleep), he will be stuck in the PIN code of the application.
• 💳 Financial protection: banking applications (Sberbank, Tinkoff, VTB) and electronic wallets (YUMoney, Qiwi) store card data – their blocking is critically important.

It's important to understand that the PIN on the app is not a replacement for a full password from your account, but an additional barrier. For example, if you use WhatsApp, two-factor authentication in the messenger itself protects against remote hacking, and a MIUI PIN protects against local access.

Preparation of Xiaomi smartphone to set up a PIN code

Before you set a PIN, make sure your device is ready for it. Here are the key points:

1. Update MIUI: Application locking may not be available or may not work properly on older versions of the shell. Check the relevance of the software in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
2. Set up the main lock, and without it, the PIN on the apps might not work, at least use a pattern lock or a fingerprint.
3. Backup: In rare cases, security settings can cause failures, and we recommend saving important data to Mi Cloud or PC.

Also note that on some Xiaomi models (such as the POCO M4 Pro or Redmi 10C), the application lock function may be hidden in the Second Space menu.

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If you have custom firmware installed (like LineageOS), the PIN function on the apps may not be available, in which case use third-party apps from Google Play, such as DoMobile Lab’s AppLock.

Step-by-step instructions: how to put a PIN code on the application

The setup process may vary slightly depending on the MIUI version, but the overall scheme is the same for most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices.

1. Open the "Settings" (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
2. Go to the Applications → Application Lock (on some devices, the path may be: Settings → Privacy → Application Lock).
3. If the feature is being used for the first time, the system will suggest creating a master password to manage the locks, come up with a reliable PIN (minimum 4 digits) or a pattern lock.
4. Once you create a password, you will see a list of all the apps you have installed. Select the ones you want to protect (e.g. Telegram, Sberbank Online, Gallery).
5. Activate the switch next to the application name, and now every time you run, you'll be asked for a PIN.

On devices with MIUI 15 (such as Xiaomi 14), the interface may look different: instead of “App Blocking”, look for the Privacy → Application Protection section. The new versions also feature the “Hidden Applications” option, which allows you not only to block, but also completely hide programs from the menu.

Features of setting up on different Xiaomi models

Not all Xiaomi smartphones are the same: budget models (such as the Redmi A2) can have stripped-down functionality, and flagships (such as the Xiaomi 13 Ultra) can have additional security options.

On Global ROM devices, the path to settings may be different from the Chinese version of China ROM. For example, on Global ROM, the section is called App lock, and on China ROM, it is called (hieroglyphics). If you don't find the right item, try changing the interface language to English (Settings → Additional settings → Language & input).

Alternative ways to protect applications on Xiaomi

If you don’t like standard application blocking (for example, due to limited functionality), consider alternative methods:

• 🔐 Third-party apps: AppLock (from DoMobile Lab), Norton App Lock or Smart AppLock offer advanced settings, including time-locking, geolocation or hacking attempts.
• 👤 Second Space: Creates a separate user profile with its own apps and security settings, useful if you want to completely isolate your work and personal data.
• 📁 Hidden folders: in MIUI You can hide files and applications in "Personal Storage" (Files) → It's not going to replace a PIN, but it's going to add a level of privacy.
• 🔄 Guest mode: allows you to temporarily restrict access to selected applications without full blocking. → System and device → Additionally. → Guest mode.

When using third-party blocking apps, be aware that they may require additional permissions (such as accessing special features or overlaying on top of other windows).This is normal for such programs, but always check reviews and rankings on Google Play to avoid fraudulent apps.

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Third-party blocking applications (such as AppLock) may conflict with the standard MIUI function. If there are lags or errors after installation, disable one of the locking systems.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When you set up a PIN code for an application, users often face typical problems, and here's how to prevent them:

⚠️ Note: if you forget the main password from the Application Block, you can only reset it through a full reset (Settings) → The phone. → Reset settings. This will delete all data from the device!

• 🔄 No PIN is requested when you open the app: check if Request Password is activated every time you run in lock settings. Also make sure the app is not added to the exceptions.
• 👆 The locking is too often: MIUI You can set the password request interval (e.g., once every 5 minutes). → Additionally.
• 📱 Fingerprint unlocking does not work: make sure that in Settings → Passwords and security → Fingerprints added at least one fingerprint and activated the option Unlock applications.
• 🔋 Quick battery drain after locking setup: some applications (especially third-party ones) may consume additional resources. → Battery and productivity.

If after setting up the lock, the application began to work unstable (for example, crashes or does not open), try temporarily disabling the protection for it or reinstall the program. MIUI.

How to remove PIN code from the application on Xiaomi

If you decide to remove protection from the application, do it simply:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Lock (or Privacy → Application Protection in MIUI 15).
2. Enter the primary password you created when you first set up.
3. Find the application you want to unlock in the list and turn off the switch next to its name.
4. Confirm action. Now the application will open without asking for a PIN.

If you want to disable the lock function completely, go back to the main Application Lock menu and select the option to Disable Lock (or Delete App Lock in English).

⚠️ Note: on some Xiaomi devices with MIUI 12 and below, disabling the lock may require you to enter a password from your Mi Account!

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions