Parental Controls on Xiaomi Phone: How to Limit Your Child’s Access to Content and Apps

Xiaomi smartphones have become an integral part of the lives of modern children, from watching videos on YouTube to communicating in instant messengers. However, without control, the gadget can turn from a useful tool into a source of risk: uncontrolled purchases in games, access to malicious content or dependence on social networks. Fortunately, MIUI firmware offers built-in parental control tools, and additional functions are available through Google Family Link services and third-party applications.

In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions for setting restrictions on Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO and Black Shark phones, from basic features (time limiting, app blocking) to advanced ones (location control, website filtering), and we will also take a look at the hidden MIUI 14/15 features that are not mentioned in the official manuals and explain how to get around typical configuration errors.

Integrated Parental Controls in MIUI: Opportunities and Limitations

MIUI firmware (versions 12 and later) includes a basic Parental Control tool that allows:

• 🕒 Set time limits for the use of the device (daily or on weekdays / weekends).
• 🔒 Block the launch of individual applications (for example, games or social networks).
• 📊 View your child’s activity statistics (which apps were used and how long).
• 🛡️ Filter web content through the Mi Browser browser (blocking adult sites).

However, the built-in solution has key drawbacks:

• ❌ No remote control of settings (physical access to phone required).
• ❌ Limitations are easy to get around through Developer Mode or reset settings.
• ❌ There is no location control function or SMS/call-up.

If you need advanced features, consider combining built-in tools with Google Family Link or customized apps (in the following sections).

2. Step-by-step adjustment of parental control through MIUI

The instructions are suitable for all modern Xiaomi smartphones on MIUI 12/13/14/15, including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T and others.

• 📱 The device is updated to the latest firmware version (check in Settings). → The phone. → Updating the system).
• 👤 You have access to your child’s Mi Account (or are willing to create one).

Make a backup copy of phone data

Make sure the device has enough charge (minimum 30%)

Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network

Shut down. VPN (It can block access to Xiaomi servers)-->

Now we move on to the setting:

1. Open Settings → Parental Controls. If you don't have one, search the settings (the magnifier icon at the top).
2. Click Start and select I'm a parent. The system will prompt you to create a password for parental control - write it down in a safe place (without it, you can't change the settings!).
3. Add a child profile: If your child already has a Mi Account, select Add an existing account and enter their details. If you don't have an account, click Create a Mi Account for your child and follow the instructions (you will need to specify your date of birth and email).

Once you have your account linked, you will be taken to the management menu.

• Time of use – setting limits.
• Application restrictions – blocking specific programs.
• Content and privacy – filtering websites.

💡

If your child complains that time has run out too quickly, check the statistics in Settings → Parental Controls → Reports. Often children spend a limit on background processes (for example, YouTube continues to play videos when the screen is locked).

Google Family Link: How to add control to Xiaomi

Google Family Link is a free service from Google that extends parental control.

• 📱 Remotely lock the device (for example, during lessons).
• 🔍 View your child’s location history (if geolocation is enabled).
• 🛒 Block purchases on Google Play without your confirmation.
• 📊 Get weekly activity reports.