How to add a desktop on Android Xiaomi: from standard settings to customization

Xiaomi smartphones based on MIUI or HyperOS offer flexible options for customizing the interface, but it is not always obvious how to add an additional desktop or change its appearance. Many users face the problem of whether there are not enough screens for all applications, or want to radically change the design. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways, from basic system settings to installing alternative launchers.

It’s important to understand that the term desktop in an Android context can mean two things: adding a new screen in a standard launcher or completely replacing the shell through third-party apps. We’ll look at both options, as well as the nuances for different firmware versions. If your Redmi, POCO or Xiaomi runs MIUI 12-14 or HyperOS, the instructions below will fit with minimal adjustments.

Before you make any changes, make sure that the device has enough free RAM (≥1.5GB recommended).Some launchers may conflict with Xiaomi system services, so we will highlight the secure solutions separately.

1. Add a new screen in the standard launcher MIUI/HyperOS

The easiest way to expand the workspace is to add an additional screen right in your home launcher, which works on all Xiaomi smartphones without installing third-party apps, but has limitations: the maximum number of screens depends on the model (usually 5-7 pieces).

To add a new screen:

1. Unlock the device and go to the main screen.
2. Make a gesture pinch (switch two fingers on the screen) – editing mode will open.
3. At the bottom of the screen, you'll see a thumbnail of a new blank screen with a plus-plus.
4. Now you can transfer widgets and app shortcuts to it.

If the gesture doesn’t work, try an alternative method:

• 📱 Click and hold the empty space on the main screen.
• 🔧 In the menu that opens, select Screen Settings (or Launcher Settings).
• ➕ Find the option Add screen and confirm the action.

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On some models (such as the POCO F5 or Xiaomi 13T), adding screens is blocked by default. To unlock, go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Launcher and reset its settings.

Note that if you add a screen, it disappears when you restart, it may be due to memory optimization.

⚠️ Warning: Disable Memory Cleanup when locked in battery settings (Settings) → Battery → Battery optimization. This will prevent launcher resets.

2. Adjust the number of screens through hidden settings

MIUI and HyperOS have hidden settings that allow you to increase the screen limit to 9 pieces, which works without root rights, but requires activation of the developer mode.

Instructions:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (stamp 7 times in a row).
2. Go back to the main settings, find a new section for developers.
3. Scroll down and enable the USB Debugging option (not necessarily plugging in the cable).
4. Install Activity Launcher from Google Play.
5. In Activity Launcher, search com.miui.home →.settings.LauncherSettingsActivity and run it.
6. In the menu that opens, select the number of desktops and set the desired value (maximum 9).

This is suitable for most models, including the Redmi Note 12, Xiaomi 12 Pro and newer devices, but on HyperOS, the path may be slightly different.

Settings → Applications → Application Management → Launcher → Storage → Clear data

After cleaning the launcher data, the number of screens will reset to standard, but you can add them again through a pinch gesture.

Installation of a third-party launcher: TOP-5 solutions for Xiaomi

If the standard settings don't work, the best option is to install an alternative launcher, which will not only add an unlimited number of screens, but also completely change the design of the interface. We tested the 5 most stable launchers for Xiaomi:

For installation of any launcher:

1. Download the app from Google Play or the official website.
2. After installation, click the Home button and select the new launcher as the main one.
3. In the launcher settings, find the Desktops or Screens section and add the required amount.

Important: On HyperOS, some launchers (like Nova Launcher) may conflict with system animations. To avoid lags, turn off MIUI-Optimization in the developer settings (Settings) → For developers → Shut down. MIUI-optimisation).

4. Creating virtual desktops through Second Space

If you need to not just add a screen, but completely separate workspaces (for work and personal use, for example), MIUI and HyperOS have a built-in Second Space feature, which is a separate profile with its own apps, settings and even a password.

How to set up:

1. Go to Settings → Special Options → Second Space.
2. Click Create Second Space and follow the instructions (you will need to set a password).
3. After creating, switch between swipe spaces down the notification panel (image icon) 👤).

The benefits of Second Space:

• 🔒 Complete data isolation (applications, files, accounts do not overlap).
• 🎨 The ability to use different launchers in each space.
• 📱 Support for different wallpapers and themes of design.

⚠️ Note: Second Space is not available on some models for the European market (for example, Xiaomi 13 Lite).In this case, use the alternative – the Island app from Google Play, which creates an isolated environment through Android Work Profile.

5 Problem Solving: The desktop is lost or reset

Xiaomi users often experience added screens disappearing after a system reboot or upgrade.

If the problem persists, try resetting the launcher settings:

Settings → Applications → Application Management → Launcher → Storage → Clear data

For HyperOS devices, a rollback to factory firmware via Fastboot can also help, but this is an extreme measure.Be sure to back up your data before such manipulations.

Save screenshots of current settings

Export contacts and SMS

Write down passwords from Wi-Fi

Make sure that your Xiaomi account is linked to your device-->

6. Alternative methods: gestures and voice control

Adding a virtual desktop is not only possible through screens, but also through gestures or voice commands, which are suitable for those who want to quickly switch between sets of applications without unnecessary swipes.

Method 1: Gestures in Nova Launcher

• 👆 Set up the swipe gesture to open the hidden screen with apps.
• 👇 Use dual tap to run frequently used programs.
• ☝️ The gesture of holding an icon can open a folder or action menu.

Method 2: Google Voice Assistant

Set up commands like this:

• “OK Google, open desktop to work” → launch Second Space or folder with office applications.
• "Show game apps" → open the screen with games.

Method 3: Tasker Appendix

With Tasker, you can create tasks to automatically switch between screens by:

• ⏰ Time of day (for example, a work desk in the afternoon, entertaining in the evening).
• 📍 Location (home/work).
• 🔋 Battery level.

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Voice control and gestures do not replace physical screens, but allow you to switch between sets of applications faster without visually overloading the interface.

7.Performance optimization after adding screens

Additional desktops and widgets add to the system load. To avoid lags on Xiaomi, follow these guidelines:

For the weaker models (Redmi 9A, POCO M3):

• 🛑 Limit the number of screens to 3-4 piece.
• ❌ Remove animated wallpaper and weather widgets.
• ⚡ Enable Easy Mode in Launcher Settings.

For flagships (Xiaomi 13 Ultra, POCO F5 Pro):

• 🔄 Use 60 Hz instead of 120 Hz to save battery.
• 🗑️ Clean the launcher cache once a week.
• 🔋 Turn off Adaptive Brightness for Widgets.

Check the consumption of resources:

1. Open Settings → Battery → Battery Use.
2. Find the launcher in the list (com.miui.home or the name of a third party).
3. If the consumption exceeds 5%, reduce the number of animations in the settings.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up a desktop on Xiaomi