How to take a screenshot on Xiaomi Mi 8: all ways + hidden chips

Xiaomi Mi 8 is the flagship of 2018, which is still relevant thanks to the powerful hardware and support for the latest versions of MIUI. But even experienced users sometimes forget how to quickly take a screenshot on this smartphone. Unlike modern models with gesture controls in MIUI 12+, here are preserved classic methods, plus added branded “chips” from Xiaomi.

This article covers all the working ways to capture screenshots on the Mi 8 (including rarely mentioned ones), parse typical errors, and answer questions about saving, editing, and transferring images. The instructions are relevant for all firmware versions, from MIUI 10 (original) to MIUI 14 (the last supported).

1. Classic method: power buttons + volume

The most versatile method that works on all Xiaomi smartphones is from Redmi 4A to Mi 13 Ultra. On the Mi 8, the keyboard combination is set by default and does not require activation in the settings.

How to do this:

• 📱 At the same time, press the power button (right) and the volume reduction button (left).
• 🔊 Hold for 1-2 seconds until you hear the shutter sound (if the sounds are on) and see the save animation.
• 📁 The screenshot will automatically be saved in the folder. DCIM → Screenshots or Pictures → Screenshots.

⚠️ Note: If you have an informal firmware installed (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS), the combination may be different. + Volume up.

💡

If the screenshot is not saved, check the permissions for the Gallery app in Settings → Apps → Application Management → Gallery → Permissions.

2 Three-finger swipe (gesture method)

The MIUI signature feature that saves time is to swipe a screenshot across the screen, and on the Mi 8, this gesture is on by default, but it can be turned off or reconfigured.

How it works:

• 👆 Swipe your finger down the screen, touching it with three fingers at the same time.
• 🎯 The gesture is triggered when touching any part of the display (not necessarily strictly centered).
• 🔄 If the screenshot is not created, check the gesture settings in Settings → Additionally. → Special opportunities → Screenshot gesture.

⚠️ Note: On some custom firmware, this gesture conflicts with other features (e.g. split screen). If the swipe doesn't work, try turning conflicting gestures off in Settings. → System system → Gestures.

Make sure the function is enabled|Check for conflicts with other gestures|Update. MIUI last-minute|Reboot your smartphone-->

3. Quick settings panel (curtain menu)

A less well-known but convenient way is to use a button in the notification bar, a method that is useful if physical buttons don’t work (for example, after a smartphone crash).

Step-by-step:

1. 📲 Swipe your finger down to open the notification bar.
2. 🔍 Find the screenshot icon** (usually located to the right of the buttons) Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
3. 🖼️ Slip on it - the screenshot will be taken instantly.

If the button is not in the curtain:

• 🔧 Open the Settings. → Notification panel and status bar → Change the control panel.
• 🔄 Find the screenshot list and drag it to the active area.

Power buttons + volume |Swipe with three fingers |Fast settings panel |Voice assistant |Another way-->

4. Voice command via Google Assistant

If you have Google Assistant enabled, you can take a voice screenshot, which is convenient when your hands are busy or the buttons are not working.

How to activate:

1. 🎤 Say, “OK Google, take a screenshot” (or “Hey Alice, screenshot»).
2. 🤖 Confirm permission to access the screen (when you first use it).
3. 📸 The picture will be preserved in the gallery.

⚠️ Note: Voice commands are required for operation:

• 🔊 The microphone is on and access to it Google/Afoxes.
• 🌐 Active Internet connection (to process commands).
• 🔓 Unlocked screen (on a locked smartphone voice screenshot will not work).

5. Scrolling screenshot (long screenshot)

MIUI’s unique feature is the ability to capture a snapshot of an entire web page, chat or document, even if it doesn’t fit on a single screen. On the Mi 8, this option works in most apps, except for some games.

How to take a long screenshot:

1. 📱 Take a regular screenshot of any of the above methods.
2. 📜 Immediately after saving the bottom of the screen, a thumbnail will appear with the “Scroll” button** (or “Long screenshot»).
3. 👆 Slip on it – the screen will automatically scroll down, fixing the content.
4. ⏹️ Click on “Ready” or “Save” when you need to stop.

🔹 What applications does it work in:

• 🌐 Browsers (Chrome, Mi Browser, Firefox).
• 💬 Messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp, Viber).
• 📄 Documents (WPS Office, Google Docs).

🔸 Where it doesn't work:

• 🎮 Games (e.g., games, PUBG, Genshin Impact).
• 📺 Some video players (for example, MX Player in full screen mode).
• 🔒 Banking applications (due to security restrictions).

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The long screenshot is saved as a separate file in PNG format and can be edited, cropped or converted to PDF via the Gallery app.

6.Editing and managing screenshots

After you take a screenshot, MIUI offers tools for quick editing, and here's what you can do right after you take a screenshot:

• ✏️ Trimming: Cut the edges or highlight part of the screen.
• 🎨 Drawing: add arrows, text or notes.
• 🔍 Blurring: hide personal data (phone numbers, passwords).
• 📤 Share: send a screenshot to the messenger or cloud.

Where to find the saved screenshots:

• 📂 folder DCIM/Screenshots or Pictures/Screenshots.
• 🖼️ Screenshots tab in the Gallery appendix».
• 🔎 Through "Conductor"** (Settings) → Warehouse → Conductor).

⚠️ Note: If Suddenly screenshots disappear from the gallery, check out:

• 🗑️ Is the “Waste Cleanup” feature included in Settings? → Warehouse → Cleanup.

FAQ: Frequent questions about screenshots on Xiaomi Mi 8