How to change the location of the clock on the lock screen Xiaomi: all the ways

Xiaomi’s lock screen is the first thing you see when you turn on your smartphone, and the location of the watch plays a key role in usability. Many MIUI users face a problem: standard settings do not always allow you to flexibly adjust the time position, especially on newer versions of firmware. In this article, we will analyze all available methods, from official settings to hidden tricks using ADB and third-party applications.

It's important to understand that the customization options depend on the MIUI version and the device model. For example, on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 with MIUI 14, the algorithm will differ from the Poco X3 Pro on MIUI 13. We'll look at the universal solutions, and we'll also point to the hidden limitations that the manufacturer has introduced in recent updates. If you want to not just move the clock left or right, but completely customize the lock screen, this guide is for you.

Why can't you just drag your watch with your finger?

Unlike the widgets on the home screen, the lock screen elements in MIUI are locked from free movement.

• 🔒 Security: Preventing accidental changes in settings when removing your phone from your pocket.
• 🎨 Design uniformities: Xiaomi adheres to strict guidelines for the location of interface elements.
• 🛡️ Failure Protection: Incorrect Positioning Can Lead to Overlaying Text on Notification Icons.

But that doesn't mean that the settings are completely unavailable. Depending on the firmware version, you have 2 to 5 customization options. The key is to know where to look. For example, MIUI 12 had a Watchstyle option available that disappeared in MIUI 14, but it can be returned via ADB.

Official method: setting the lock screen in MIUI

The easiest method is to use the built-in system settings, which is suitable for most Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco models on firmware versions up to MIUI 14.

1. Open the Settings → Lock screen.
2. Select the watch style (on some devices it may be called the watch type).
3. Scroll down to the Position section and select one of the options offered: 🕒 Top left (standard for most models). 🕓 Central (not available on all devices). 🕔 Right top (may not be available on budget smartphones).

If the Position item is not on the menu, then your model does not officially support this option, in which case, move on to the following methods.

Check the version of MIUI in Settings → About the phone

Backup the data (settings → Additional → Backup)

Charge your phone at least 50% (for ADB methods)

Disable the lock by fingerprint if using informal methods-->

Hidden settings via ADB (for advanced users)

If the official methods don't work, you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a deep-tuning tool that requires connecting your phone to your computer and enabling Developer Mode.

Attention: improper use of ADB can cause malfunctions in the phone.

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on MIUI Version. Go back to Settings → Additional → For Developers and turn on USB Debugging.
2. Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command: adb shell settings put global lock_screen_clock_position 1 Where 1 — position code: 0 — upper left (standard). 1 — central. 2 — upper-right.

After you execute the command, restart the device. If the clock has not changed position, try repeating the command with a different value or check if the settings have reset after the restart.

⚠️ Note: On some devices with MIUI 14 and the HyperOS parameter lock_screen_clock_position It can be blocked, and in this case, only the installation of custom firmware or the use of a module will help. Xposed/Magisk.

Use of third-party applications (without root)

If you don't want to mess with ADB, you can use specialized utilities from Google Play.

• 🔧 Lock Screen Customizer – allows you to change the position of the clock, color, font and even add your images. Works on most Xiaomi devices without root, but requires permission to overlay windows.
• ⚙️ MIUI Customizer is a more advanced tool with support for themes and animations. MIUI 12-14, It may conflict with some system applications.
• 🎨 Always on Display Custom – If your phone supports you AOD, This app will give you full control over the location of the items, including the clock.

Warning: Third-party apps can reset settings after a MIUI update or reboot, and they often require you to turn off battery optimization in your phone settings, which can reduce battery life.

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Before installing a third-party app, check user reviews of your Xiaomi model. Some utilities only work on specific devices (such as the Poco F3 or Redmi K40).

Manual editing of system files (root only)

If you have root rights, you can manually edit the system files that control the location of the watch, which gives you maximum flexibility but also maximum risk.

The main files that need to be changed:

• /system/media/theme/default/com.android.systemui/lockscreen_clock_position.xml — contains the coordinates of the clock.
• /system/priv-app/SystemUI/SystemUI.apk/res/layout/keyguard_clock.xml — lock-screen.

For editing:

1. Download Root Explorer or Solid Explorer with root support.
2. Find the files and make a backup copy of them.
3. Edit coordinates in format android:layout_gravity="center|left|right".
4. Reset the device.

⚠️ Warning: Incorrect editing of system files can lead to bootloop (a looped reboot).If you are not sure about your actions, use a backup. TWRP before the change.

Alternative solutions: widgets and wallpaper with clocks

If none of the methods worked, you can go for a trick:

• 🖼️ Wallpaper with built-in clock: download wallpapers where time is already located in the right place (for example, in the center.
• ⏰ Watch widget on the home screen: if you want to see the time in a certain place, add the watch widget to the desktop and turn off the display of time on the lock screen in the settings.
• 🔄 Change of subject MIUI: Some of the themes from the official Xiaomi Themes store offer a custom watch arrangement. Try searching for "center clock" or "custom lockscreen".

These methods do not give complete control, but allow you to bypass the limitations of the system without risking stability.

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If your goal is just convenience, not aesthetics, try turning off the clock on the lock screen (Settings → Lock screen → Watch) and using the widget on the home screen. This will save battery power and eliminate the need to unlock to view the time.

Frequent problems and their solutions

When changing the location of the clock, users often encounter the following errors:

If none of these methods worked, your Xiaomi model may have a tight firmware level, which leaves you either to accept the current location or to consider installing custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions