Users of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones often face redundancy of the MIUI interface or the new HyperOS. The default system offers many features that not everyone needs, such as the built-in app menu with news feed or duplicate widgets. This can annoy those who prefer minimalism and a clean desktop without unnecessary distractions.
Disabling unnecessary elements not only improves visual perception, but can also have a positive impact on the autonomy of the device. Background processes that update widgets or collect usage statistics consume the resources of the processor. Competent interface configuration allows you to focus on the main thing and remove visual noise, which often interferes with the rapid launch of the desired programs.
In this guide, we will detail how to turn off the application menu, remove unnecessary tabs and optimize the desktop, and you will learn how to manage the launcher system settings so that the device works exactly how you want it to work, not as the interface developers intended.
Why you should remove unnecessary interface elements
Xiaomi’s modern Android shells are saturated with content that many users consider redundant. Built-in news feeds, recommendations, and a duplicate app menu often take up valuable screen space. By removing these elements, you regain control of navigation and make smartphone use more comfortable.
Also, disabling unused launcher features reduces the load on RAM. When the system doesn't have to constantly load news widgets or animations of tab transitions, the interface becomes more responsive, especially for budget models, where every megabyte of RAM counts.
⚠️ Note: Before making changes to the launcher system settings, make sure you have an alternative way to call apps if you plan to change the standard desktop.
Many users also point out that a clean, tab-free interface helps reduce digital dependency. When you don't see an endless stream of recommendations when unlocking, there's less temptation to stick in your phone. It's a simple but effective way to digital hygiene.
Preparation for the setting up of the desktop
Before making any changes, make sure your smartphone is updated to the latest available firmware version. Older versions of MIUI may have different settings menu structure, which will lead to confusion. Check for updates in Settings → About Phone.
It is also recommended to free up space on the desktop by removing or moving to folders rarely used shortcuts, which will help you better navigate the menu structure after it is turned off.
☑️ Preparing for interface change
It's important to know which elements you want to disable. In Xiaomi terminology, "app menus" can mean things like a separate page with all the programs installed, a wallpaper carousel widget, or a built-in news feed.
Disabling the tab "-1 screen" (Wallpaper Carousel)
One of the most important functions is the so-called "-1 The screen" that swipes to the right of the main screen, usually hosts Glance widgets or Wallpaper Carousels that broadcast news and promotional content, is a major source of irritation for many users.
To get rid of this, you need to go to the desktop settings: press your finger on an empty desktop space or pinch your two fingers to call the edit menu. In the bottom corner of the screen, find the Settings button (cog).
In the menu that opens, find the wallpaper carousel switch or the wallpaper carousel switch. Transfer the slider to the "Switched off" position. The system may request confirmation of action, since this feature is closely integrated with Xiaomi services.
⚠️ Note: After the wallpaper carousel is turned off, swipe to the right will return you to the first desktop or open the widget, depending on the shell version.
If standard methods fail to disable the feature, it may be imposed by regional settings, in which case changing the region in the main settings of the phone to India or the USA helps, after which the option is often available for disabling.
Configure the display of all applications
In classic MIUI mode, all app shortcuts are right on desktops, like iOS. However, there is an App Menu mode where the shortcuts are put into a separate space caused by a swipe from the bottom up, and switching between these modes is a key point in how to turn off the app menu on Xiaomi.
To change the display mode, go to Settings → Desktop. Here you will find Mode. Select Classic if you want all apps on screens, or C App Menu if you prefer Android structure.
It is important to note the difference in the system’s behavior when removing shortcuts. In classic mode, removing a shortcut from the desktop often means completely removing an application. In the application menu mode, the shortcut simply disappears from the screen, remaining available in the general list.
Hidden possibilities of the menu mode
Some users prefer to hide certain applications from the general menu, and for this purpose, the "Hide Apps" function in the desktop settings allows you to remove sensitive or rarely used programs from view without removing them from the system.
Use of third-party launchers
If the standard HyperOS or MIUI tools do not allow you to achieve the desired minimalism, the best solution is to install a third-party launcher, applications such as Nova Launcher, Lawnchair or Microsoft Launcher, give you complete control over the appearance.
Once you install a third-party launcher, the system will prompt you to select the default one. Select "Always" so that the new interface will be applied automatically every time you unlock, and this will completely replace the standard application menu with the one you choose.
| Launcher | Difficulty | Flexibility | Weight. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Launcher | Medium | Tall. | Lightweight |
| Lawnchair | Low. | Medium | Very light. |
| Smart Launcher | Low. | Automatic. | Medium. |
| Microsoft Launcher | Low. | Medium | Heavy. |
Third-party solutions have their advantages: You get access to thousands of themes, icons and plugins that are not available in the stock shell, and third-party launchers often run more stable on older devices because they are less resource-intensive.
⚠️ Note: When installing a third-party launcher, some Xiaomi brand gestures (such as calling an assistant or clearing memory) may stop working or require additional setup.
Hiding System Applications Through ADB
For advanced users who want to remove the system menu of applications or hide deeply integrated components, there is a method using ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which requires connecting a smartphone to a computer and having drivers.
First, activate the developer mode. Go to Settings → About Phone and quickly click on the MIUI build number seven times. Then turn on "Debugging by USB" in the Developer menu.
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.homeThis command disables the standard launcher. Using this command without an alternative launcher installed will make it impossible to use the phone interface! So install and configure a third-party launcher in advance.
ADB removes or disables virtually any system components, including those that are not removed in the usual way, but be very careful: disabling critical system processes can result in a cyclical reboot of the device.
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For safe ADB work, use graphical shells like Xiaomi ADB/Fastboot Tools, which have pre-installed lists of secure apps to remove.