How to put the lock button on the screen Xiaomi Redmi

Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone owners often face a situation where the standard interface feature set is not enough for comfortable use.The MIUI shell offers ample customization options, but some controls, such as the separate lock button on the desktop, are hidden by default or require manual activation. This is especially true for devices with a damaged physical power button or for those who prefer one-handed control.

Adding a widget or shortcut to instantly turn off the display saves time and reduces wear on mechanical keys. Unlike many other Android smartphones, Xiaomi’s system allows you to implement this control without installing third-party applications using built-in system tools. However, finding this option is difficult due to the peculiarities of menu localization.

In this article, we will discuss all the available ways to put a lock button on your device screen. We will look at the standard methods through widgets, creating special shortcuts and alternative management options that will be useful if the standard path does not work. It is important to understand that on different versions of MIUI (Global, China, EEA) the location of menu items may differ.

Use of standard MIUI widgets

The easiest and most reliable way to access the lock feature is to use system widgets. MIUI shell comes with a set of pre-installed tools that can be placed on the desktop. Unlike standard Android, here widgets are often combined into a single control panel or accessed through a separate add-on menu.

You need to start with desktop editing mode, either by pinching two fingers across the screen or holding the blank area for a long time, and then select Widgets from the bottom menu that appears, and you'll find several categories, including Tools or System Widgets.

In the list of available items, look for widgets called "Switch", "Block" or "One-tap task." By clicking on the desired element, you can place it in the free space of the screen. Once installed, the widget will look like a separate icon, clicking on which instantly extinguishes the screen.

• 📱 Standard widget "Block" - a classic button that works on all versions of firmware.
• 🔒 Widget "Security" - a comprehensive tool that includes the function of locking and cleaning memory.
• ⚡ Acceleration shortcut – often includes an additional screen-off feature in the extended menu.
• 🛠️ System Tools – a hidden section where additional switches for advanced users are located.

It is worth noting that some global versions of HyperOS firmware or new MIUIs may not have a standard lock widget in the base set, in which case the system suggests using alternative management methods, which will be discussed below.

Creating a special shortcut through settings

If the widgets don't show up or you want a more aesthetic option, you can create a special shortcut, which is often called the "contact trick," but in reality, it uses a system function to create action shortcuts, which allows you to display an icon on your desktop that executes a specific system command.

To implement this, you'll need access to shortcut settings. In some versions of MIUI, this is done through the widget menu, where you select the Actions or Shortcuts category. Find the "Block Screen" or "Lock Screen" action in the list. Drag it to the desktop, you get a function button.

Alternatively, you can use the Themes app. In the official Xiaomi store, there are themes that include a set of widgets with a lock button, and by installing such a theme and using only the Widget component, you will get access to the desired feature, even if it was hidden in the stock firmware.

It is important to consider that shortcut creation can be restricted by access rights in new versions of Android.If the system blocks shortcut creation, try resetting the launcher settings or using third-party apps to create action shortcuts that are available on Google Play.

⚠️ Warning: When installing themes from unofficial sources or third-party stores, be careful.Some themes may contain advertising modules or modify system files, which will lead to unstable work. MIUI.

Setting up the off menu and power buttons

Owners of Redmi and Xiaomi can adjust the behavior of the physical power button to perform the screen lock function at a short press, rather than calling the off menu or voice assistant.This is especially convenient if the screen responds to late-pressed touches.

Go to Settings → Additional settings → Buttons. You can find the "Short Press" option here. The default option is often "Nothing" or "Google Assistant." Change the value to "Block Screen" or "Switch off screen" if that option is available in your version of the software.

Also worth checking is the off menu settings. In the newer versions of Android and MIUI, pressing the power button for a long time can call Google Assistant instead of the off menu. To return the usual behavior, go to Settings → Additional settings → Buttons and turn off the start of the assistant by long press.

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If a short tap stops blocking the screen, check if the “In pocket” or “Gestural” mode is enabled, which can block the sensor and buttons.

Alternative methods through the Topics app

Xiaomi’s official Themes app is a powerful tool not only to change wallpaper, but also to add functional elements. Many users don’t know that the themes hide interface components that can be used regardless of the overall style of design.

Open the Themes app and search for "Lock button" or "Block." You'll find many themes that have widgets in their description. Download your favorite theme, but don't use it completely. Go to the user profile (human icon), select My themes, find the downloaded one, and click Apply by selecting only Widgets or System icons.

This method allows you to add a stylish lock button to your desktop that will differ from standard system elements. This is a great way to personalize the interface of Redmi or Poco, making it unique and convenient.

Use of third-party applications and launchers

When built-in tools are not enough, third-party solutions come to the rescue. There are many apps on the Google Play store that specialize in adding lock buttons, and they can offer advanced functionality, such as locking on a schedule or changing icons.

A popular solution is to install a custom launcher, such as Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher. These shells allow you to create action shortcuts. From the widget creation menu, select "Tags", then search the system applications list "Settings" or "System" and select "Screen Lock".

There are also specialized button apps, like Button Mapper or Assistive Touch, that create a floating button on the screen, similar to the one on the older iPhones, that can be configured to lock when you press one, double or long.

• 🚀 Nova Launcher – allows you to create shortcuts for any hidden actions of the system.
• 🖱️ Assistive Touch – Adds a floating button with lock function.
• ⚙️ Button Mapper – Reassigns the functions of physical and software buttons.
• 🎨 KWGT Kustom Widget – for advanced users, allows you to draw your own button.

⚠️ Warning: Third-party screen locking apps require permission to "Overlaid Over Other Windows" and "Accessibility" which gives the app full control of the screen, so only use proven software with good reviews.

Solving the problems with the off button (hardware aspect)

Often, the question of software lock buttons arises because of a physical power button breakage. If a button on a Xiaomi or Redmi case is stuck, it stops or it stops responding, software crutches are only a temporary solution, but there is a way to extend the life of the device.

Use the Double Tap feature to turn the screen on and off. It is available from the Settings menu → Screen → Screen Lock. By activating "Dual Tap Screen" and "Dual Tap Screen Turn Off" (if supported by your model), you can completely dispense with the mechanical button.

To turn off the device without a power button, use the reboot menu. Many MIUI models can call the turn off menu while holding the volume buttons, or through the control panel (swipe down), where there is a turn off button. You can also use the voice command "OK, Google, turn off the phone."

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If the physical power button is broken, using the software lock button and double tap on the screen is the only way to comfortably use the smartphone before repair.

In conclusion, installing the lock button on the Xiaomi Redmi screen is a challenge that can be solved in several ways: from simple widgets to complex launcher settings, each user will find an option for their needs. The main thing is not to be afraid to experiment with interface settings, since MIUI provides all the necessary tools for this.