How to password the application on Xiaomi Redmi Note: all working methods

Protecting your personal data on your Xiaomi Redmi Note smartphone becomes critical when multiple people are using your phone or you are afraid of leaking sensitive information. One of the most effective ways is to set a password on individual applications, whether it is messengers, banking programs or a gallery. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of blocking applications on Redmi Note devices (including Note 10/11/12/13) models running on the latest versions of MIUI 12/13/14.

It's important to understand that standard MIUI tools don't always provide a direct "password app" function, but there are workarounds, from built-in security tools to third-party solutions with advanced capabilities. We tested each method on real devices and selected only those that are guaranteed to work without risk to the system. If you're looking for a reliable way to hide access to WhatsApp, SberBank Online or the Gallery, you will find detailed instructions here, taking into account the features of Xiaomi's firmware.

1. Built-in "Application Lock" function in MIUI

The most obvious and safe way to do this is to use the standard "Second Space" or "App Lock" tool, which is present in most versions of MIUI. However, its availability and location depends on the regional firmware and shell version. On the Redmi Note with global firmware, the path to settings may differ from the Chinese version.

To activate the lock:

1. Open the Settings. → Password and security.
2. Select Application Block (or App Lock in English).
3. If the feature is not in the menu, try an alternative path: Settings → Special features → Block applications.
4. Create. PIN-code or pattern lock for protection.
5. In the list, select the applications that you want to block (for example, Telegram, Photos, Google Pay).

Once activated every time you run a blocked application, the system will require you to enter a password. Note that if you use a fingerprint to unlock the screen, you can also link it to App Lock, which will speed up access.

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If your MIUI version does not have "App Lock" option, upgrade to the latest stable version via Settings → About Phone → System Update. Often the feature appears after an upgrade.

2.The use of the "Second Space"

The MIUI's "Second Space" feature allows you to create an isolated copy of the system with separate applications and data. It's not exactly locking, but a reliable way to hide applications from prying eyes. All data in the second space is encrypted and only accessible after you enter an additional password.

How to set up:

• 🔒 Go to Settings. → Special facilities → Second Space.
• 📱 Click Create a second space and follow the instructions (you need to set a new one). PIN graphical).
• 🔄 Once created, restart your phone and select the right space when turned on.
• 📌 Install in the second space the applications you want to hide (for example, Viber or Tinkoff).

The advantage of this method is complete data isolation, the disadvantage is that you have to switch between spaces if you want to quickly access hidden applications, and some system functions (such as notifications) may not work properly.

3. Third-party applications for blocking (AppLock)

If the built-in MIUI tools are not satisfied, you can use third-party programs from Google Play.

• 🔐 AppLock (from DoMobile Lab) – supports blocking by PIN, Fingerprint and even by self-settlement (front camera).
• 🛡️ Norton App Lock – a reliable solution from a well-known antivirus brand with protection from hacking.
• 📱 Smart AppLock – allows you to block not only applications, but also individual functions (for example, mobile data or Wi-Fi).

How to install and configure:

1. Download the selected application from Google Play.
2. Run it and provide the necessary permissions (access to Usage Access and Overlay over other windows).
3. Create a master password (save it in a safe place!).
4. In the list, select the applications to lock and configure additional options (for example, automatic lock after closing).

⚠️ Note: Some applications for blocking may conflict with MIUI Check user reviews before installing for compatibility with your Redmi Note model, such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro with the Redmi Note. MIUI 13 is better for DoMobile’s AppLock, and Norton App Lock on Note 12.

4. Hiding applications through "Hidden folders"

If you don’t need a full password lock, but simply hide applications from outsiders, you can use the Hidden Folders feature in MIUI. This method does not protect data with a password, but makes applications invisible in the main menu.

Instructions:

1. Open the Settings. → Home screen.
2. Select Hidden folders (or Hide apps in English).
3. Check the apps you want to hide (such as Instagram or Google Photos).
4. Confirm action. Apps will disappear from the home screen and from the menu.

To return hidden apps, repeat the steps and uncheck the boxes, which is suitable if you need to temporarily remove apps from view, but not protect them from targeted search (for example, through Settings → Apps).

5.Blocking through Digital Wellbeing

A little-known way is to use the Digital Well-Being tool, which is available in MIUI based on Android 9+. It allows you to set time limits on the use of applications, but there is a life hack to block:

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Digital Well-Being and Parental Controls.
2. Select the Toolbar (graphic icon).
3. Find the right app (for example, YouTube) in the list and tap it.
4. Activate the app timer and set a limit of 1 minute.
5. Enable the option to Block the application after the time has expired.

Now, after the first minute of use, the app will be blocked until the next day, a method that is suitable for restricting children's access to games or social networks, but not for fully protecting sensitive data.

6. Protection through Guest Mode

If you need to temporarily provide the phone to another person but hide personal data, use Guest Mode, which creates a temporary profile with limited access to applications and files.

How to activate:

• 📱 Go to Settings. → System and device → Additionally. → Guest mode.
• 🔑 Turn on the mode and set up a list of available applications (by default, only basic ones will be: phone, messages, browser).
• 🔄 Switch to guest mode via the notification panel (user icon).

All personal data, including WhatsApp, the Gallery and the Banking apps, will be unavailable in guest mode, and you will need to enter a password or fingerprint to return to your main profile.

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Guest mode is the only method that does not require the installation of additional programs and completely isolates personal data from outsiders.

Comparison of application blocking methods on Xiaomi Redmi Note

If you want maximum protection of sensitive data (bank applications, correspondence), use Second Space or the built-in App Lock. Guest Mode or Digital Well-being will work for temporary access restrictions (for example, for a child).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When setting up the application lock, users of Xiaomi Redmi Note often face typical problems, and here are the most common ways to solve them:

⚠️ Warning: If you forget your App Lock or Second Space password, you can only reset it through a full Hard Reset. This will delete all data from your phone.

Problem 1: Application Locking is not available in the settings.

• 🔹 Check the firmware region: in Chinese versions MIUI The function may be called differently or require activation through Settings. → Additionally. → Special facilities.
• 🔹 Update the firmware to the latest version (in) MIUI 14 feature available in all regional builds).

Problem 2: Third-party AppLock does not block applications.

• 🔹 Check permissions: the application needs access to Usage Access (Settings) → Annexes → Special access → Use data).
• 🔹 Turn off battery optimization for AppLock in settings MIUI.

Problem 3: After rebooting, the lock is reset.

• 🔹 This is common with some third-party blockers. Try Norton App Lock, which works well after a reboot.
• 🔹 If you are using Second Space, make sure that the Reset option is not activated when restarting (check in the space settings).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions