How to make a dark watch on Xiaomi: setup Always on Display

Modern smartphones of Xiaomi are equipped with bright AMOLED-displays that allow you to implement the function of permanent display of time on a locked screen. This option is known as Always On Display or AOD, Turns the gadget into a stylish accessory, showing the time, date and notifications without the need to unlock the device. However, standard light dials may not be popular, especially in low light conditions or if you want to save battery power.

Device owners often wonder how to make a dark watch on shaomi so that it blends harmoniously with the black background of the screen and does not irritate the eyes in the dark. The setup process can vary depending on the version of the MIUI operating system or the new HyperOS, as well as the smartphone model. In this guide, we will discuss in detail all available methods of customization, including hidden settings and third-party applications.

Before we get to the instructions, it is worth noting that the ability to install a dark watch depends on the type of matrix of your screen. IPS-panel, function AOD may be unavailable or operate in limited mode, as the technology requires pixel-controlled glow to display black without backlighting.

Compatibility check and basic activation of AOD

The first step before you set up your visual style is to believe that your smartphone technically supports Always On Display, which is usually the option of the Redmi Note series (starting with certain versions), Xiaomi Mi and flagship Xiaomi. If you don’t find the relevant items on the menu, it may be that your device doesn’t support hardware shutting down individual pixels.

To activate the basic function, you need to go to the system settings. The path may vary slightly, but most often it looks like: Settings → Lock screen → Always On Display and Lock screen. In some versions of the firmware, this section may be called simply “lock screen” or be located in the wallpaper and personalization menu.

In the menu that opens, you'll see the switch that you want to activate. Once you turn on, the system will suggest you choose the display style. This is where standard dark themes are most often available. If the standard options don't suit you, you should pay attention to the section "Online Resources" or "Theme Store" where you can download additional packages.

⚠️ Attention: Constant operation of the screen in mode AOD Increases battery consumption by approximately 1-2% If you are critical to autonomy, set the schedule for switching on or activate by lifting the smartphone.

Customization of the style and color of the dial

The main way to change the look of a watch is to use customization tools built in. In the AOD settings menu, you can find the option "Style" or "Format." Often, here are options with minimalist design, where time is displayed in thin white or gray font on a black background. This is the classic "dark clock."

To adjust the color of the font more deeply, you sometimes need to choose a specific pattern. Some dials allow you to change the color of the indicators manually. If the color option is in the chosen style, try to choose a white, gray or even dark blue shade that will be less contrasting and more pleasant for the eyes in the dark.

Switching from 12-hour to 24-hour (23:59 instead of 11:59 PM) often changes the visual composition, making it more strict and dark. New versions of HyperOS have the ability to edit dial elements, where you can hide seconds or dates, leaving only time.

• 🎨 Template selection: Use built-in themes with a predominance of black background.
• 🕒 Time format: 24-hour format looks stricter and more compact.
• 🔋 Energy saving mode: Simplified watch style to save charge.
• 📅 Additions: Disabling date and notifications for minimalism.

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If the standard settings don’t give you the right color, try setting dark wallpapers for the lock screen – some AOD themes adapt to the main background color.

Use of themes and the Mi Themes store

The most extensive selection of design options is provided by the official Mi Themes store, which is a powerful tool that allows you to completely change the appearance of the system, including the lock screen and Always On Display.

In the search box of the store, type in queries like "Dark". AOD", "Black Clock, "Minimalist Time" or "OLED". The system will offer hundreds of options created by Xiaomi and independent designers, many of which are free and custom-tailored. AMOLED-screens where black means off pixel.

Once you download the theme, take your time to apply it fully. In the theme preview menu, you can often choose "Apply Lock Screen Only" or "Apply AOD Only" to save your current icon and menu theme, but change the view of the locked screen to the desired dark style.

Advanced settings through the "Themes" app

The Themes app has more features than it seems, and in addition to downloading the packages, you can create your own combinations, go to the user profile (the person icon in the lower right corner) and select Settings.

Some regions and versions of the Mi Account have access to beta features or an extended directory, and you can filter themes by "AOD" option. Pay attention to themes marked "Dynamic" - they can change the color of the watch depending on the time of day, becoming dark at night automatically.

To avoid this, use the preview function or use only the Lock screen component. If the AOD theme is gone after you use it, try restarting the device or clearing the theme cache.

Third-party apps for Always On Display

If the built-in tools fail to achieve the desired result, applications come to the rescue from the Google Play store. One of the most popular and functional solutions is the application "Always On AMOLED", which allows you to create your own dials from scratch.

In these applications, you can choose a black background, add a "Clock" element, select a font, color (e.g., dark gray #333333) and size. This gives you complete freedom of creativity. You can make the watch as dim as possible, barely noticeable in the dark, or vice versa, neon.

However, third-party software has drawbacks: applications that require permanent permits to work in the background and can consume more battery than the system solution. In addition, they can conflict with the native implementation of AOD from Xiaomi, so it is better to disable the built-in feature before installing.

⚠️ Note: When using third-party applications for AOD Add them to the battery exclusion list (Settings) → Battery → Settings) so that the system does not force the process to close.

Optimization and problem-solving

After setting up a dark watch, users may find that the screen goes off too quickly or is constantly on fire. To solve this problem, go back to the AOD settings menu and look for "Schedule" or "Mode of operation".

You should choose 10 seconds after touch or sunset until dawn. The first option saves energy by showing time only when you're interacting with your phone. The second option is convenient if you want to see the clock at night but turn it off during the day.

It’s also worth checking for system updates. Xiaomi regularly releases patches that improve display performance and fix graphics bugs. Go to Settings → About phone and click on MIUI/HyperOS to check for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Using native dark dials in conjunction with the work schedule is the optimal balance between the aesthetics, functionality and autonomy of your Xiaomi.