Xiaomi Mi Mix smartphones have become true pioneers in the world of bezel-less devices, setting trends that we see today. However, like any device with a MIUI shell, these devices require a competent initial configuration for stable operation. Incorrect settings at start can lead to fast battery discharge or unstable notifications.
In this guide, we will take you through all the steps of customization, from extracting from the box to deep optimization of the system. You will learn how to properly activate an account, configure biometrics and hide ads that are built into the firmware by default.
Before you start active, make sure that the device is at least 60% charged. The initial setup process, especially if you need to upgrade the system, can be energy-intensive. Also prepare a stable Wi-Fi connection, as it can take time to load profiles and synchronize contacts.
Primary activation and configuration of the interface
Once you turn on the device, you will be met by the initial setup wizard, at which point it is important to take your time and read the system's suggestions carefully. First, select the interface language and connect to the Wi-Fi network. The system will immediately check for Android updates and the MIUI shell.
☑️ Pre-activation check
If you find an update, be sure to install it before you sign in to your Google account, which will avoid conflicting service versions and synchronization errors early on, and can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the speed of the Internet and the weight of the service pack.
Then the system will suggest recovering data from a backup. If you are switching from another Android smartphone, use a cable or cloud storage to transfer contacts and photos. iPhone users have a special migration tool available, but it requires installing a separate app on iOS.
At the stage of setting the lock screen and theme, the system will suggest choosing a style. The Mi Mix series is characterized by specific themes that emphasize the minimalism of the device. Don't ignore the navigation setting: choose between the classic three buttons or gesture controls, which look more organically on the frameless display.
- 📱 Select the navigation type: gestures or buttons in the menu "More".
- 🎨 Download a theme from the catalog optimized for AMOLED screen.
- 🔒 Set a PIN or pattern lock before linking accounts.
- 📶 Set up the device name to display correctly in Bluetooth.
Working with Mi Account and Google Services
The centerpiece of Xiaomi’s ecosystem is the Mi Account. Creating or logging in to an existing account opens up access to cloud storage, Find Device and synchronize notes. Unlike a Google account, Mi Account is deeply integrated into system security processes.
When you log in to a Google account, the system can request confirmation through two-factor authentication. This is standard security procedure. Once logged in, check which data is synchronized. Often, the default is to synchronize heavy data that may not be needed immediately.
Why do you need Mi Cloud when you have Google Photos?
The important thing is to set up security. In Security → Mi Cloud, activate the device search function, which will allow you to remotely lock your smartphone or erase data in the event of loss. Without Mi Cloud enabled, some of the call blocker functions may not work properly.
Don't forget to check Google Play. Go to the app store and try downloading any app. If you have an error, clear the Google Play cache through the app menu. On older Mi Mix models, this is a common problem after major updates.
⚠️ Warning: When you sign in to a Mi Account on a new device, protection may work: if the account was linked to another phone, the system will require you to enter a password from the old device to confirm the owner.
Biometrics and data security
Xiaomi Mi Mix smartphones were equipped with various scan modules, from classic sensors at the back to ultrasonic scanners in the screen. Customization of biometrics begins with choosing the method of unlocking in the Settings → Passwords and security menu.
When you set up your fingerprint, it will ask you to apply your finger repeatedly, changing the angle of inclination. Don't ignore this step: the more accurately you scan the edges of your finger, the faster and more reliable it will work later. For models with a subscreen scanner, it is recommended to add the same finger twice as different profiles.
| Type of biometrics | Speed of operation | Reliability | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scanner from behind | Tall. | Tall. | Working in gloves. |
| Subscreens (Mi Mix 2S/3) | Medium | Medium | Requires direct contact |
| Facial recognition | Very high. | Low. | It only works when the screen is on. |
| 3D Face ID (Mi Mix 2S) | Tall. | Tall. | Works in total darkness. |
Face recognition is customized separately. 3D-The module (e.g. Mi Mix 2) is simply an analysis of the image from the front camera. 2S and the Mi Mix 3 uses an infrared camera that allows you to unlock in total darkness.
In addition, you can configure Application Protection in the security section, which allows you to set a separate password or fingerprint for running specific programs, such as a gallery or messengers, which is critical to maintaining data privacy.
Optimizing battery and performance
MIUI shell is known for aggressive energy savings, which sometimes leads to problems with the delivery of notifications. To make messengers work correctly, you need to manually adjust the mode of operation of applications. Go to Settings → Battery → Battery status.
Find important apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Mail) and change their status to "No restrictions." If you don't, the system will "kill" the background processes, and messages will only come after you open the application, a frequent complaint of new users.
To improve performance in games, use the built-in Game Turbo app, which not only blocks notifications, but also redistributes CPU resources to the running game. On Mi Mix models with Snapdragon processors, this gives a noticeable increase in FPS.
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Use the dark MIUI theme for AMOLED screens, which not only reduces eye strain, but also really saves battery power, as the black pixels on these screens are simply turned off.
Also worth checking is the autorun settings. In the app "Security" -> "Permissions" -> "Out-run" leave only the necessary system services and messengers on. Extra applications in autoboot slow down the phone's turn on and consume memory.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use third-party cleaners (Clean Master and similar). MIUI They are more efficient and secure, and external programs may conflict with system optimization processes.
Camera and multimedia setup
The cameras in the Xiaomi Mi Mix require calibration to suit your preferences. In the standard camera app, turn on the grid and horizon level. The Mi Mix series has a wide viewing angle, and the grid will help you to follow the composition of the frame.
The sound settings deserve special attention. Since different models of the line used different audio output technologies (the piezoelectric speaker in the first Mi Mix, the usual one in the next), check the equalizer settings. Turn on Dolby Atmos or Hi-Fi mode in the audio settings for better quality.
If you have a model with a mechanical sliding camera (Mi Mix 3), adjust the shifting actions. This can be launching a selfie camera, turning on a voice recorder or starting a game. The slider mechanism also requires periodic dust cleaning.
Settings → Sound and vibration → Sound effects → Select a profile (Music/Film/Game)To record high-resolution (4K) video, make sure the memory card (if used) has a speed class of U3 or higher.UFS internal memory handles streaming video without problems, but external drives may not pull the bitrate.
Advertising removal and system debris
One of the first things you do after you buy is to turn off system advertising, and it's displayed in standard apps like Explorer, Music, Themes, and you go to the settings of each of these apps and find the "Get Recommendations" or "MSA" switch.
There is a common switch in the system, but it is often hidden. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Access to personal data. Find msa (MIUI System Ads) and turn it off. The system will warn about the consequences of 10 seconds, then you need to click "Stop".
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Disabling msa is the most effective way to remove ads from the entire system at once, but may require a repeat of the procedure. 2-3 due to server errors.
Also check the settings of the Security app. It also has a "Receive recommendations" option in its settings, which is responsible for the banner ads when scanning the system, and disabling this item makes the interface cleaner.
- 📂 Conductor: Settings → About the annex → Recommendations (Off).
- 🎵 Music: Settings → Advanced settings → Showing ads (off).
- 📱 Loader: Settings → About the annex → Recommendations (Off).
- 🔒 Security: Settings → General settings → Receive recommendations (Off).