The transparent keyboard on Xiaomi smartphones is not only a stylish design element, but also a practical solution for those who want to see more content on the screen. Depending on the model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 14) and the version of MIUI (13/14/15), the activation methods may differ. In this article, we will analyze all working methods, from built-in functions to third-party applications, and also explain how to avoid common configuration errors.
It's important to understand that keyboard transparency isn't always the complete invisibility of buttons. More often than not, it's a semi-transparent background that allows you to see wallpaper or content under keyboards. Some devices (like Xiaomi 13 Ultra) have this feature out of the box, while others require additional software, and we tested all of these on current firmware and only put together working solutions.
1. Built-in transparent keyboard in MIUI: where to look for settings
Starting with MIUI 12.5, some Xiaomi models have a translucent keyboard option, but it's hidden in the depths of the menu and depends on the firmware version. Here's how to find it:
Go to Settings → Additional Settings → Language and input → MIUI keyboard (or Gboard if it is installed by default).
- 🔍 Click on “Themes” or “Design” (depending on version).
- 🎨 Choose Transparent or Adaptive (sometimes called Dynamic»).
- 🔄 If you don’t have an option, update your keyboard via Google Play or check for updates. MIUI.
On the POCO F5 and Redmi K60 with MIUI 14, transparency is enabled through Keyboard Settings → Style → Background → Transparency. The slider allows you to adjust the level from 0% (completely opaque) to 70% (maximum transparency).
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If your version of MIUI doesn’t have transparency, try changing the firmware region to India or Global – sometimes this reveals hidden features.
2. Transparency setting in Gboard (Google Keyboard)
Gboard is the standard keyboard on most Xiaomi smartphones (except the Chinese versions), which supports a translucent background, but the option is hidden in experimental features.
- Open any text field (such as Notes) to allow the keyboard to appear.
- Click on the icon. ⚙️ («Settings) on the Gboard panel.
- Go to Topics. → Create your own theme.
- Select "Fond" and move the "Transparency" slider to the right.
- Save the topic under a unique name (e.g., “My Transparent Style”).
On Xiaomi 12T and POCO X4 Pro, after these manipulations, the keyboard will become translucent, but the buttons will remain clear. If the effect is too weak, try combining transparency with a dark theme in the system settings (Settings → Screen → Dark Mode).
Why is Gboard Transparency Not Working?
Third-party keyboards with transparent background: TOP-3 applications
If the built-in techniques didn't work, third-party keyboards will come to the rescue, and we tested dozens of options and selected the three most stable ones:
| Annex | Transparency | Additional functions | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chroom | 90% | Animations, button customization | Paid themes |
| Fleksy | 80% | Gestures, emoji predictions | Advertising in the free version |
| Simple Keyboard | 100% | Minimalist design | No autocomplete. |
For installation:
- Download the app from Google Play.
- Activate the keyboard in Settings → System → Language and input → Virtual keyboard.
- Run the app and find the transparency settings (usually under “Themes” or “Style”).
Important: When using Simple Keyboard with 100% transparency, buttons can merge with the background – add a wiring in the settings (“Border”) for better visibility.
4. Transparent keyboard via ADB: for advanced users
If you're ready to experiment, you can enable hidden transparency settings through ADB (Android Debug Bridge), a method that works on Xiaomi with the bootloader unlocked and USB debugging enabled.
Instructions:
- Connect your phone to your PC and activate Developer Mode (7 times click on “Build Number” in Settings → About Phone).
- Enable USB debugging in the developer menu.
- Open the command line on the PC and type:
adb shell settings put secure miui_keyboard_transparency 1
adb shell settings put secure miui_keyboard_transparency_level 5050 is the transparency level (0 to 100), and when you reboot, the keyboard becomes translucent, and to get it back, do this:
adb shell settings delete secure miui_keyboard_transparencyInstall Xiaomi drivers on PC
Enable debugging over USB on your phone
Download ADB Tools (e.g. Google Platform Tools)
Create a backup copy of the data-->
⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB If the buttons become invisible after the commands, reset the keyboard settings through Settings. → Annexes → Application management → keyboard → Warehouse → Clear the data.
5 Problems and Solutions: Why the Keyboard Doesn't Become Transparent
Even after all the manipulations, transparency may not work, and here are the most common reasons and ways to address them:
- 🔄 Outdated firmware: Update MIUI Up to the latest version through Settings → On Redmi 10 and older models, transparency only appeared in the MIUI 13.0.5+.
- 🎭 Topics conflict: Reset the theme to standard (Settings) → Topics → My subjects. → Some custom themes block the effects of transparency.
- 🔋 Energy saving: Turn off Battery mode in Settings → Battery – It limits visual effects.
- 🛠️ Cache failure: Clear the keyboard cache in Settings → Annexes → keyboard → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
If nothing works, check if apps like Nova Launcher or Substratum are installed on your phone, which can override system styles, and on some devices (like the POCO M4 Pro), transparency only works in dark mode.
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Before resetting your keyboard settings, export your custom dictionary (in Gboard: Settings → Dictionary → Export) to avoid losing your saved words.
6. Alternative methods: widgets and wallpaper with transparency effect
If none of the methods worked, you can simulate transparency with wallpaper or widgets:
- 🖼️ Transparent Wallpaper: Set wallpaper with gradient or blur through apps like Backdrops or Zedge. On Xiaomi 13 Lite, this visually creates the effect of a “transparent” keyboard.
- 📱 Transparent Screen Widget: Transparent Screen apps add a translucent panel over the keyboard (not working on all models).
- 🎨 Castom launchers: Nova Launcher or Hyperion can configure the transparency of the navigation bar, which indirectly affects the perception of the keyboard.
On the Xiaomi Pad 6, the combination of dark theme + blur wallpaper + Chroom keyboard with 60% transparency gives a good result. Experiment with combinations!
7.Security: The Risks of Transparent Keyboards and How to Avoid Them
A transparent keyboard is not only aesthetics, but also potential risks:
- 👀 Passwords Snooping: In public, translucent buttons can make it easier for attackers. Use Settings → Security → Protection of confidentiality → Hiding input for sensitive fields.
- 🔍 Reduced contrast: In bright sun, transparent buttons are not visible. Set up automatic brightness adjustment in Settings → Screen. → Adaptive brightness.
- 🛡️ Third-party keyboards: Apps like Fleksy request access to text input. Check permissions and read reviews before installing.
⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi with MIUI for China (suffixed firmware versions) CN) Some third-party keyboards may conflict with system services. If you have lags after installation, go back to the standard keyboard.