How to completely disable shortcuts on Xiaomi: remove system and user icons

Shortcuts on Xiaomi’s desktop are often a source of annoyance: system applications like Mi Video, Mi Music or Themes cannot be removed in standard ways, and custom ones are duplicated after updates. In this article, we will analyze all working methods from hiding through settings to deep cleaning with ADB, including nuances for different versions of MIUI (from 12 to 15).

It’s important to understand that not all labels can be removed forever, for example, Google service icons (Play Market, YouTube) are protected by manufacturer’s policies, but they can be hidden without consequences for the system, while Xiaomi system applications (for example, com.miui.videoplayer) require radical measures – up to disabling through PM disable.

Before you start, check the MIUI version in Settings → About Phone. Some methods (such as disabling through the Lab) only work on firmware up to MIUI 14, and newer versions require workarounds.

1. Standard shortcut hiding through MIUI settings

The safest way is to use the built-in MIUI tools. It is suitable for most custom shortcuts and some system shortcuts (e.g. Calendar or Notes).

Algorithm of action:

• 📱 Long-pressed label → Select “Delete” (for user) or “Hide” (for system).
• 🔍 If there is no “Hide” option, drag the icon to the top of the screen – a basket or “Remove” icon will appear».
• 🔄 For recovery: Settings → Desktop → Hidden applications.

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ It doesn’t work for Google apps (Play Store, Chrome).
• ❌ Does not hide widgets (for example, Weather or Steps).
• ❌ After updating MIUI Hidden labels may return.

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If the shortcut is not removed with a long press, try moving it to another screen first and then try again.

Disabling system applications through the Laboratory (MIUI 12–14)

Older versions of MIUI have a hidden Lab section that allows system components to be deactivated, and newer firmware may not work or require ADB activation.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the Settings. → The phone.
2. Click 5-7 times on the MIUI version until the notification “You are a developer” appears.
3. Return to Settings → Additional → Laboratory (or Advanced Settings → Laboratory).
4. Select “Disable System Apps” and deactivate unnecessary ones (e.g. com.miui.player for Mi Music).

Backup | Check battery power (>50%) | Remember the names of the packets being disabled | Do not turn off critical services (e.g. com.android.phone)

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Warning: Some applications (e.g. com.miui.securitycenter) are responsible for security and may result in:

• 🚨 Errors in updating MIUI.
• 🚨 Losing features like Game Turbo or Second Space.
• 🚨 Unstable work NFC Bluetooth.

3.Use ADB for deep shutdown (no root)

If standard methods don't work, Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a debugging tool that allows you to disable system packages without superuser rights, works on all versions of MIUI, but requires a connection to a PC, will help.

Tools required:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB Tools.
• 📱 Included debugging by USB (Settings → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original).

Disconnect commands (example for Mi Video):

adb shell


pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.videoplayer

List of popular packs to disable:

Xiaomi System Applications (Mi Music, Mi Video)|Google Services (Play Market, Chrome)|Widgets (Weather, Steps)|Duplicates of user labels|Other-->

Attention:

⚠️ Don’t disable packages called com.android.* or com.miui.home, which will cause the launcher to crash and reset. Before experimenting, check the list of secure packages on forums like this. 4PDA or XDA Developers.

4. Removal of labels by third-party launchers

If you're tired of struggling with MIUI system limitations, install an alternative launcher.

• 🌟 Nova Launcher – supports hiding icons, gestures, backup layouts.
• 🎨 Lawnchair is a lightweight open source launcher optimized for Android.
• ⚡ Hyperion Launcher – Maximum customization, including hiding system applications.

How to hide the shortcuts in Nova Launcher:

1. Install a launcher from the Play Store.
2. Long press on the desktop → “Settings”.
3. Go to App Settings → Hide Apps.
4. Check the boxes for unnecessary shortcuts (including system ones).

Advantages of the method:

• ✅ No, he doesn't. ADB or root rights.
• ✅ It works on all versions. MIUI.
• ✅ Allows you to customize gestures, animations and appearance.

Cons:

• ❌ Certain functions MIUI (For example, the second space may not work properly.
• ❌ Xiaomi widgets (weather, pedometer) will appear in the general list and may not be updated.

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Third-party launchers are the only way to completely remove the shortcuts of Google services (Play Store, Chrome) without ADB.

5. Radical Methods: Removal through TWRP and root

If you’re willing to take drastic measures, unlocking the bootloader and installing custom recovery (TWRP) will give you access to complete removal of system applications.

• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (via Mi Unlock Tool).
• 🛠️ Established TWRP For your Xiaomi model.
• 📦 Backup copy of NANDroid (required!).

Step-by-step:

1. Boot to TWRP (hold Power + Volume up when turned on).
2. Go to Advanced → File Manager.
3. Remove application folders to /system/priv-app/ or /system/app/ (e.g. MiuiVideo).
4. Wipe Dalvik/Cache and reboot.

Risks of the method:

• 💥 Loss of warranty (if the phone is under warranty).
• 💥 Possible brick (turning your phone into a brick) in case of an error.
• 💥 Need for manual updates MIUI (OTA stop working).

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 or Xiaomi 13) remove system applications via TWRP It can cause loss of camera or module function NFC Because of the anti-Rollback protection.

6. How to Recover Hidden or Deleted Labels

If you accidentally deleted the desired shortcut or want to return the system application, use one of the ways:

For hidden labels (without ADB/root):

• 🔄 Go to Settings. → Desktop → Hidden apps and uncheck the boxes.
• 🔄 In Nova Launcher: The Long Press → Settings → Hidden applications.

For those disabled through ADB:

adb shell pm enable com.miui.videoplayer

For those remote via TWRP:

• 🔄 Restore the backup of NANDroid.
• 🔄 Reflash your phone via Mi Flash Tool (Data Loss!).

If the tag is missing after the MIUI update:

• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes the icons come back after a reboot.
• 🔄 Reset the launcher settings: Settings → Annexes → Application management → Launcher → Warehouse → Clear the data.

FAQ: Frequent questions about removing shortcuts on Xiaomi