How to change buttons on the lock screen Xiaomi: from gesture settings to functionality

Xiaomi’s modern smartphones with MIUI shells and the new HyperOS provide users with a huge opportunity to customize the interface. However, the standard lock screen is often oversaturated with elements that are not comfortable for everyone. Many device owners are wondering how to change the buttons on the Xiaomi lock screen to simplify access to frequently used functions or, conversely, remove unnecessary distractions.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the mechanisms for controlling interface elements available in system settings and through special applications. You will learn which buttons can be reassigned using standard means, and where you will need to use third-party utilities to achieve the desired result. Understanding these processes will allow you to make using your smartphone more ergonomic and faster.

It’s worth noting that the security interface is constantly evolving, and what worked on Android 11 may be different from the implementation in Android 14. Deep tuning requires attention to detail, as improper actions can lead to the disappearance of important features, such as calling emergency services or accessing the camera at a critical moment.

Staffing options for setting up the lock interface

The first thing to start with is to look at the built-in options, and Xiaomi has a basic set of settings to manage the visibility of certain elements, but it's important to understand that the standard functionality is limited by the security rules of the Android operating system.

In most cases, you can't physically move the flashlight or camera button to another location on the screen without using third-party software, and it's very tightly regulated, but you can control how critical elements are on the screen.

To access the basics, you need to go to the settings menu. Navigation may vary slightly depending on the firmware version, but the overall path remains similar. You need to find the section that deals with the appearance and security of the device.

  • πŸ” Open Settings and select Lock Screen.
  • πŸ” Find the Shortcuts or Lock Screen Settings section.
  • πŸ” Check for switches for camera and flashlight.
  • πŸ” Check the widget settings if they are available in your version. MIUI.

⚠️ Note: On some global firmware versions, the ability to disable camera and flashlight shortcuts may be hidden or completely absent due to Google’s requirements.

πŸ“Š What feature on the lock screen you need the most?
Camera.
Lantern
Dictaphone
Calculator
Nothing, I don't need buttons.

Using themes to change buttons

One of the most effective ways to change the visual display and functionality of buttons is to use the Themes app. Xiaomi Theme Store contains thousands of designs that can completely replace the standard lock screen with a custom one.

When you install a new theme, you often get not only new icons, but also a changed logic of how elements work. Some themes allow you to replace standard shortcuts with other applications or change their location. This is a legal and safe way to modify the interface.

However, be careful when choosing topics from unknown authors. Some designs may contain ads or mishandle proximity sensors. Always check the rating and number of downloads before installing.

πŸ’‘

Before installing a new theme, be sure to take a screenshot of the current lock screen settings so that if you fail, you can quickly return to the original state.

Use the built-in search to find the right design. Enter keywords related to minimalism or specific features you want to see. Once the theme is installed, the system may require a reboot or a relock of the screen to apply the changes.

Setting up volume buttons and their functions

While this section doesn’t directly address on-screen buttons, it’s critical to controlling a smartphone without unlocking. Many users don’t know that physical volume buttons can be reconfigured to perform actions on a locked screen.

With built-in features or simple scripts, you can configure the camera, voice recorder, or flashlight by pressing long or combining buttons, often more convenient than looking for the right icon with your finger on a slippery screen.

Newer versions of HyperOS have the ability to customize actions when you press volume buttons when you turn off, part of a smart interaction system that makes using the device more intuitive.

Settings β†’ Additional settings β†’ Special features β†’ Shortcuts β†’ Launching the camera

Here you can activate a feature that allows you to run the desired application with a combination of buttons, which is especially useful in winter, when removing gloves to unlock the phone is inconvenient.

Advanced customization through ADB and third-party apps

For those who want to gain full control of the system, there are more sophisticated methods, using ADB debugging to hide system elements that do not turn off in the usual menu, which requires connecting the smartphone to the computer.

There are many apps on Google Play, like Button Mapper or MacroDroid, that allow you to reassign button actions and create complex scripts, and you can make a double-touch screen to trigger a particular application, mimicking the operation of a button.

However, using third-party applications to replace the system lock screen can lead to increased battery consumption.The system will constantly monitor the state of the screen, which creates an additional burden on the processor.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for system modification

Done: 0 / 4

If you decide to use ADB-One mistake can cause the lock screen to stop responding to touch and you have to reset the device completely.

Comparison of features in different versions of MIUI and HyperOS

The functionality of the button and screen settings varies greatly depending on the operating system version, and below is a table showing the main differences between popular shell versions.

Shell versionDisabling labelsChange of positionThird-party topicsGestures
MIUI 12Partially.No.Full supportBasic
MIUI 13/14Yes (in most regions)No.Limited.Extended.
HyperOS 1.0Yes.Through themesStrict controlSmart scripts
Android StockNo.No.MinimumStandard.

As you can see from the table, with the release of new versions, the system becomes more closed in terms of direct modification of system files, but offers more features through scripts and smart features.

Users of older versions of MIUI may find it easier to change buttons through direct editing of configuration files, but HyperOS focuses on personalization through the theme store and widgets.

Problems and frequent mistakes

When trying to change buttons, users often find that the settings are not saved or only partially applied, this can be due to a conflict of access rights or energy saving.

If you have installed a theme but the buttons are still old, try clearing the Themes app cache and System UI. Also make sure the theme you select is fully compatible with your smartphone model and screen resolution.

⚠️ Warning: After a deep modification of the lock screen, the Pocket Mode function may not work correctly, which will lead to accidental taps when the phone is in your pocket.

What to do if the lock screen stops responding?
If after installing a third-party launcher or theme, the screen stopped responding, try to perform a forced reboot by holding the power button for 10-15 seconds. If this does not help, you will need to log in to Recovery mode and reset the settings.

In some cases, the problem lies in a specific application that intercepts button management. Check the list of recently installed programs and remove those that have suspicious permissions to access the system.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove the camera button from the lock screen?
In most cases, this is not possible with regular means due to Android security requirements, but installing a third-party theme can visually hide this element, although the feature may remain available through gestures or volume buttons.
Is it safe to use apps to change buttons?
Apps from the official Google Play store that are highly rated are generally safe, but programs that require root rights or the installation of unknown apps are generally safe. APK-Files that pose a potential risk to the security of your data.
Why did the buttons reset after the firmware update?
When major system updates (e.g., from MIUI to HyperOS) often reset user interface settings to factory values, this is normal behavior, ensuring the stability of the new version of the OS.
How to return the standard buttons if they are missing?
To return the standard view, it is enough to delete the last installed theme of the lock screen in the Themes application or reset the lock screen settings in the system settings menu to factory values.

πŸ’‘

Changing the buttons on the lock screen is a balance between convenience and security.Use proven themes and avoid questionable scripts.

To sum up, changing the buttons on the Xiaomi lock screen is a multifaceted process, from simply switching switches in settings to installing complex themes, you choose the level of interference in the system, the main thing is to be careful and back up before experimenting.