The modern smartphone has long since ceased to be a mere means of communication, turning into a digital safe, where bank access, personal correspondence and confidential photos are stored. For owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco devices running on MIUI shells or the new HyperOS, the issue of restricting access to certain memory areas is especially acute. The company’s built-in security tools allow you to create a reliable barrier without installing third-party software, which often contains advertising or collects data.
Enabling the app lock feature is the first step to creating a personal digital stronghold, and the way it works is by creating an additional layer of authorization different from the screen unlock code, which greatly improves security, and even if someone unlocks your phone, they won't be able to log into your chosen programs without knowing an additional password, a pattern lock, or a fingerprint.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the nuances of this tool, explore the hidden capabilities of hidden applications, and answer frequent user questions. You will learn how to properly configure biometrics for quick access and what to do if you forget the installed access code. Deep security configuration is available to everyone, regardless of their level of knowledge.
Why you need to block applications on Xiaomi smartphones
The main purpose of using App Lock is to separate access to the phone’s shared interface from sensitive data inside it. Imagine giving a phone to a child to watch a cartoon or a friend to make a call, but fearing that they will accidentally (or intentionally) open your gallery or messenger. App blocking solves this problem by leaving the desktop open but locking up “dangerous” areas.
It's also an effective way to protect financial information. Banking applications often have their own pins, but Xiaomi's unified security system allows you to unify this process. You don't have to remember dozens of different passwords for different programs, just one reliable key that will be requested every time you run your selected services. System protection works at the core level, making it more resistant to bypassing than third-party launchers.
And psychological comfort is also worth mentioning, because knowing that your personal data is secure even when you physically access your device makes you feel more secure, especially in public places or when you use your smartphone in front of strangers, and privacy is becoming more than an option, it's becoming the standard of use.
⚠️ Warning: Don't rely on app locking as the only protection. If an attacker gains access to the main lock screen of the phone, they may try to reset or exploit system vulnerabilities.
Step-by-step: how to activate protection
The process of activating protection with built-in MIUI or HyperOS shells is as simple as possible for developers, first you need to go to the system application "Security", which is standard for all devices of the brand and has a green icon with a shield, and this is where all the main tools for optimizing and protecting the device are concentrated.
Inside the app, find the Application Protection section (sometimes called App Lock or Application Lock). When you first log in, the system will prompt you to create a unique password or pattern lock. Importantly, this password will differ from the screen unlock code, which creates an additional layer of security. Once you enter the code, the system will suggest linking the Mi Account to allow you to restore access in case you lose your password.
☑️ Blocker setup
Once you set the password, you'll see a list of all the programs installed on the device. Sliders across from the apps you want to restrict access to. These can be contacts, messages, a gallery, or specific games. Once you activate the switch, when you try to run the selected application, a password request or fingerprint window will appear.
For users who prefer biometric protection, the option of unlocking by fingerprint or face is available, which greatly speeds up access to protected data, since it does not require entering characters every time. However, it is recommended to periodically use a digital password so that the system does not “forget” biometric data and require confirmation.
Configure hidden applications and Second Space
Hidden Apps works in conjunction with the blocker, and allows you to completely remove the icons of selected programs from the desktop and menu. To get into this hidden section, you need to select the appropriate option in the Security app and set a special gesture or code. Often a set of characters in the search bar or a specific movement of your finger on the screen.
The alternative to radical data separation is Second Space, which is the creation of a full-fledged second operating system inside your phone, the second space has its own wallpaper, its own set of applications, its own accaMi account and its own files, and the switch between the main and second space is instantaneous through settings or a special widget.
What is the difference between Hidden Applications and Second Space?
Second Space is ideal for those who want to separate their work and personal lives, or for parents who give their children a phone, and you can install games in a second space, and your child will never see your personal photos or work documents, as they are physically in another memory area.
| Function | Level of protection | Visibility of icons | Data isolation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application lockdown | Medium (password/finger) | You can see. | No. |
| Hidden applications | High (gesture/code) | Hidden. | Partial |
| Second space | Maximum (single profile) | Separate desktop | Complete. |
Using biometrics for quick access
Modern Xiaomi smartphones feature fast and accurate fingerprint scanners located under the screen, in the on button or separately on the case. Setup unlocking applications with a fingerprint eliminates the need to enter a password every time. This is not only convenient, but also safer, since you do not enter the code in the presence of outsiders.
To activate this feature, go to the application lock settings and find "Use fingerprint" or "Use face unlock." The system will require confirmation of your primary security password. After activation when you try to open a secure application (such as WhatsApp or Bank), the phone instantly counts your finger and lets you inside.
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If the fingerprint scanner is unstable, try reconfiguring the fingerprint by adding the same finger twice at different angles, which will improve the accuracy of recognition in different positions of the phone.
It's worth considering that biometrics has limitations. Once the device is rebooted or if the phone hasn't been used for more than 3 days, the system will still require a digital password. This is a standard Android security measure that can't be circumvented. Face unlocking is also less secure than a print, especially on devices without a print. 3D-scanner, as it can be fooled by a high-quality photo.
⚠️ Note: Do not use the face unlock feature if you are afraid that your phone may be unlocked while you are asleep or unconscious.
Restoring access with a forgotten password
The most common problem users face is a forgotten password from blocking apps. If you didn't link your Mi Account when you first set up, it will be extremely difficult to restore access to data, and in some cases impossible without resetting your phone, which is why linking your Mi Account is a critical step in the initial security setup.
If an account is tied, the recovery process is simple: on the password input screen, click "Forgot password" (or similar button). The system will prompt you to send the confirmation code to the associated phone number or email. Once you enter the code, you can set a new password to block applications, while saving all the data inside the protected programs.
If your account is unlinked and your password is lost, the only option is to completely reset your device to factory settings, which will remove all data from your phone, including photos, contacts and apps. So always keep backups of important information in the cloud or on your computer. Data reset is a last resort that you should not resort to.
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Forgotten password from App Lock without a linked Mi Account leads to complete data loss.Always set up recovery through the account immediately after the feature is turned on.