Xiaomi smartphone users often face the need to quickly access screenshots, but the standard interface of the MIUI shell or the new HyperOS does not always allow you to display the screenshot button directly to the home screen in one click. This is a limitation of the Android operating system, which manufacturers try to circumvent through their own add-ons. However, there are several proven ways to implement this feature using system widgets or third-party software.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods, from native tools to advanced settings that will help you automate the process. You will learn how to create a shortcut that will take a screenshot instantly, and what pitfalls can be encountered when you set up the system. Attention: some methods require the installation of additional applications from proven sources.
⚠️ Warning: When installing third-party apps to create screenshots, be sure to check the permissions requested. Do not trust access to the screen to unverified programs, as they can intercept the passwords entered.
Before you get to the complicated methods, make sure you use all the features of the standard interface. In recent firmware versions, Xiaomi has significantly changed the logic of working with widgets, so the old instructions may not be relevant.
Standard capabilities of the MIUI and HyperOS shell
The first thing to start with is to learn the built-in functionality. In the shells of MIUI 13, 14 and the new HyperOS, developers have introduced handy widgets that can serve as an alternative to the direct button. However, there may not be a direct Screenshot widget on the desktop by default, but there are related tools. For example, the Notes widget or the Clipboard often allows you to quickly save the current screen.
To check for native widgets, you need to pinch an empty space on the desktop or pinch a two-fingered one. In the menu that opens, select "Widgets." In the list that opens, look for sections related to system tools or utilities. Importantly, the location of widgets may differ depending on the the theme installed through the Themes app.
If the standard set doesn't offer the right solution, you can try using the Quick Notes feature. When you activate this widget and select the Screenshot option, the system takes a screenshot and immediately opens the editor. It's not quite the same as just saving a file, but for many use cases this is enough. The speed in this case depends on the amount of RAM your device has.
Also worth mentioning are keyboard combinations that run faster than any widget. On most Xiaomi devices, the screenshot is created by simultaneously pressing down volume and power buttons. For users who are uncomfortable reaching for buttons, the Three Fingers feature is available. You can activate it in the Settings menu → Additional Settings → Screenshot.
Using the application "Tags" for automation
The most effective way to create a screenshot button on your desktop is to use the Shortcuts system application, which is built into most modern Xiaomi smartphones and allows you to create automation scenarios, and you can create an icon that you click on will perform the action "Take a screenshot".
The process of setting up is to find the shortcuts app in the Tools folder or search. Create a new shortcut, select System action, and find "Take a screenshot." Once you save the shortcut, the system will suggest adding it to the home screen, which creates a full-fledged icon that works without running any additional interfaces.
But there's a nuance to this method: In some versions of Android and MIUI, the direct "Take a Screenshot" action can be hidden or require additional permissions. If you don't find one, try creating a shortcut to run a particular camera app, or use the command via ADB if the device is rooted, although it can be a bit tricky for ordinary users.
☑️ Setting up the label
Another option in this method is to create a shortcut for a specific contact or application, but this does not solve the problem directly. So if the standard shortcut application does not give the desired result, it is worth considering creating a shortcut for settings where you can quickly move to control the screen, although it is less convenient.
Third-party applications for creating screenshots
If Xiaomi's built-in tools don't meet your needs, Google Play apps come to the rescue. There are many utilities that create floating buttons or widgets on the desktop. One of the most popular and reliable solutions is the Screenshot Easy or Screen Master app.
Once you install an app, you'll need to give it special permissions, which are usually access to display over other windows and permission to capture the contents of the screen. Android 11, 12, 13 and 14 have a stricter rights process, so follow the instructions on the screen carefully. Once you set up the app, you'll see a widget that you can drag to the desktop.
| Annex | Type of widget | I need a Root license. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screenshot Easy | Widget/Floating button | No (needs ADB for auto screen) | Support for different triggers |
| Screen Master | Widget / notification | No. | Built-in editor and scrolling screenshot |
| Assistive Touch | Floating button | No. | Emulation of the iPhone button, many functions |
Using third-party software has its advantages, such as the ability to customize the format of save, add watermarks or automatically send screenshots. However, such applications can consume more battery life, as they constantly hang in the background, waiting for commands.
⚠️ Note: When using third-party screenshots, remember that they can see everything that happens on your screen, including banking apps. Use them with caution and delete them when they are not needed.
Floating button setting (Assistive Touch)
MIUI has a built-in floating button feature, which is similar to Assistive Touch in iOS. Although its primary purpose is to emulate navigation buttons, it also allows you to add your own shortcuts, and you can set up a short press or long press on this button to perform a screenshot action.
To activate, go to Settings → Additional Settings → Floating Button. Turn on the function and select an action for a short tap. The action list often includes a screenshot. This allows you to have permanent access to the function on the screen without taking up space with widgets on the desktop.
Hidden Floating Button Settings
The advantage of this method is that it does not require additional software installation and is well optimized for the Snapdragon and MediaTek processors used in Xiaomi. The button does not interfere with the view if you configure it to disappear inactivity, and is always available at any point on the screen.
Creating a widget through the "Themes" app
Xiaomi's theme store isn't just a background picture. Many authors create complex themes that include unique widgets. Search themes by topic, you can type in "Screenshot widget" or "Screenshot." Some themes add custom desktop icons that, when you click, take a screenshot.
To find a theme, open the Themes app, go to search and type in keywords. Pay attention to the theme description and preview screenshots, which should show special widgets. After applying the theme, new controls may appear on the desktop.
However, this method has limitations: Third-party widgets may not work properly after a system update or region change, and they often change the entire visual style of the system, which may not appeal to users who prefer the standard HyperOS design.
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If the widget from the theme stopped working after the update, try switching to a standard theme and then activating the downloaded one again. This often updates the widget scripts.
Use of Google widgets and third-party launchers
Users who have installed a third-party launcher (like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher) have more flexible customization options. In these launchers, you can create shortcuts for any system activity, including hidden ones. You can create a shortcut for the activity responsible for the screenshot and place it anywhere.
And you also have Google widgets, and the Google Assistant widget lets you use a voice or tap to start a "Take a Screenshot" command, which can be even faster than finding an icon. Just add the Assistant widget to your desktop and use it.
For advanced users, launchers offer action folders. You can put a Quick Access folder where you can shortcut screenshots, screen recordings and voice recorders, which organizes the workspace and speeds up the workspace with the Xiaomi device.
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The combination of third-party launcher and Google widgets gives maximum flexibility in managing screenshots, surpassing the capabilities of the standard shell.