Modern Xiaomi smartphones are actively implementing full-screen control mode, which gradually replaces the classic mechanical or software keys. The transition to gesture navigation allows you to increase the usable screen area, providing a more comfortable interaction with content without unnecessary interface elements. Users who are accustomed to the old control scheme often wonder how to change the gesture buttons on Xiaomi to meet modern ergonomics standards.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of switching navigation systems in current versions of the MIUI shells and the new HyperOS. You will learn not only about the basic settings, but also about the intricacies of sensitivity calibration, as well as how to eliminate common problems with the response of swipes. Proper navigation can significantly speed up the work with the device and make the use of the smartphone more intuitive.
Before we start to change, it’s worth noting that the interface settings may vary slightly depending on the version of the Android operating system and regional firmware. However, the logic of action remains the same for all devices of the brand, whether it’s the flagship Xiaomi 14 or the budget Redmi Note. We will look at universal algorithms that will help you quickly adapt the gadget to your preferences.
Differences in navigation buttons and gestures
The traditional three-button navigation that many have become accustomed to over the years of using Android is based on visual elements at the bottom of the screen. Back, Home and App Menu buttons occupy a certain space that could be used to display content. Unlike them, gesture control frees up the bottom bar of the screen, allowing apps to run in full screen mode without black bezels or image cropping.
Using swipes requires a certain amount of muscle memory, but after a period of adaptation, most users notice an increased speed of operation. Navigation with gestures allows you to perform actions with one hand much faster, since it does not require accurate hitting on small virtual keys. In addition, this reduces the risk of burning out the matrix at the bottom of the display, since static interface elements are absent.
⚠️ Note: When switching to gestures, the return zone (“Back”) can be located on the left or right depending on the settings, which at first can cause confusion among users who previously used a fixed button location.
From a visual perspective, the lack of bottom buttons makes the interface cleaner and more modern, especially when watching videos or reading books, where every millimeter of the screen matters, but it is worth considering that on devices with very large diagonals, access to the top of the screen to call the menu can be difficult if you do not use additional one-handed control functions.
Preparing the device for changing settings
Before changing the way you navigate, make sure your device is working correctly and the display responds to touchscreens throughout the area. Sometimes touchscreen problems can be mistaken for gestural system failures. It is recommended to wipe the screen from dirt and remove the protective glass if it has thick edges that interfere with swipes from the very edge of the display.
It’s also worth checking out the version of the shell installed. Owners of devices with MIUI 12, MIUI 13, MIUI 14 and the latest HyperOS may encounter different menu layouts, although the functionality remains similar. If your smartphone has not been updated for a long time, it may be worth considering updating the system to get the most current gesture processing algorithms.
☑️ Checklist before setting up
It is important to understand that changing the navigation system settings is a safe operation and will not lead to data loss or breach of warranty. You can return to the classic look at any time if the new format is uncomfortable for you.
Step-by-step: how to turn on gestures on Xiaomi
The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- 📱 Open the settings of your device.
- 🔍 Find and select the Additional Settings section (in some versions of HyperOS, it may simply be called System Settings»).
- 🖱️ Click on Full-screen menu or System Navigation.
- ✅ Select Full Screen instead of “Buttons».
When you select Full Screen, the interface will change instantly, the bottom buttons will disappear, and thin bars of indicators will appear on the edges of the screen. Now, to swipe back from the left or right edge of the screen inward, and to access the desktop, swipe from the bottom up in the center. To view running applications, you need to swipe from the bottom up and hold your finger in the middle of the screen.
What to do if the menu item is hidden?
Setting sensitivity and speed of animation
One of the common problems with gestures is that they are not responsive enough or too sensitive, leading to random triggers. The MIUI and HyperOS shells offer fine-tuning options, which are especially true for users who use thick edged protective glass or have a specific grip of the device.
To change the sensitivity, follow the following steps:
- Go to the Full Screen menu where you selected the navigation type.
- Find the slider or the point Sensitivity of the side edges.
- Move the slider around, testing the results in real time, and there are usually three levels available: low, medium and high.
- Check the gestures in different applications, especially in games and the browser.
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Edge sensitivity | Determines the width of the swipe response zone | Average for most users |
| Speed of animation | Speed of transition between screens | Depends on the power of the processor |
| Vibrant response | Tactile returns in swipe | Include for better control |
If you notice that gestures only work incorrectly in certain applications, check their compatibility. Some older applications may not support full-screen mode properly, requiring forced activation through engineering menus or special utilities. However, in 99% of cases, the problem is solved by simply adjusting the sensitivity in standard settings.
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For better gestures in games, turn on the Do Not Disturb mode or game mode so that swipes from the edges do not interrupt the gameplay with random exits in the menu.
Solution: Gestures don't work or glitches
Despite the stability of modern versions of Android, users may experience situations where the swipe zone stops responding or is running with delays, often due to a temporary failure of the process-launcher (launcher), responsible for displaying the desktop and navigation, in which case you should not panic and carry the phone to the service.
The first step is to simply reboot the device, which clears RAM and restarts all system services, including the input service. If the problem is software-based, it will be fixed. In case the reboot doesn't work, try clearing the Settings or Launcher app cache, but do it carefully so as not to bring down desktop personalization.
⚠️ Warning: If the gestures stopped working after installing a third-party launcher or theme, the problem lies in a software conflict.
Also worth mentioning is the effect of protective films: Cheap hydrogel films or hardened glass with poor oleophobic coating can worsen finger slip, which is critical for gesture control. If you notice that your finger sticks or moves in jerks, you might want to replace the screen accessory.
Additional features and hidden functions
Few people know, but there are additional settings in Xiaomi that extend the gesture functionality, such as setting the Double Tap action to turn off the screen or launch applications, which are located in the Additional Features or Special Features section.
In addition, in one-hand mode, you can activate the downward shift of the interface when swiping in the input key area (if it is virtual) or a special gesture. This is extremely convenient for owners of smartphones with a screen diagonal of more than 6.5 inches, allowing you to reach the upper elements of the interface with your thumb.
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Optimal navigation settings are about balancing speed and convenience. Don't be afraid to experiment with sensitivity to find the perfect value for your grip.
For advanced users, you can change the direction of the Back swipe, so if you're more likely to swipe from right to left (like iOS) or from left to right (like older versions of Android), you can change that in the same navigation menu, so you can personalize your device to your personalized habits without having to relearn.