Second desktop on Xiaomi: how to set up and use

The second desktop feature on Xiaomi smartphones is a powerful tool for separating personal and work data, hiding confidential applications or creating different profiles for tasks. Many users are unaware of its existence, although it is available on most shell devices. MIUI (Unlike standard guest mode, the second desktop allows you to flexibly customize the interface, install individual wallpapers, widgets and even restrict access to certain functions.

But how do you activate this option? What Xiaomi models support it, and can you circumvent the limitations if the feature is hidden in the settings? In this article, we will explore all the ways to create a second desktop, from official methods to hidden features. MIUI, We also tell you how to avoid common mistakes when setting up.

⚠️ Important: On some models (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO X3 Pro) the function can be blocked by the manufacturer for certain regions. If you don't find it on the menu, check the version MIUI and if necessary, update the firmware.

1.What Xiaomi models support the second desktop?

Second Desktop Function (Second Space in English) MIUI) Available on most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO, It's been released since 2017, but there are nuances:

• 📱 Flagship models: Xiaomi 13/12/11, Mi Mix – Supports without limitation, including setting up individual Mi Accounts.
• 📱 Mid-segment: Redmi Note 11/10/9, POCO X4/F4 — function is available, but may require activation through Settings → Special facilities.
• 📱 Budget models: Redmi A1, POCO M4 — Support is limited or absent (depending on version) MIUI).
• 📱 Devices for China: On firmware MIUI China feature can be called Double Space and have advanced settings.

To find out exactly if your smartphone supports a second desktop, check the version. MIUI Settings menu → The phone, if the version is older. MIUI 8, update the firmware through Settings → Updating the system.

2.Official method: how to turn on the second desktop

The easiest method of activation is through standard settings MIUI. Follow the instructions:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the Special Opportunities section (on some models – Additional).
3. Select the Second Desktop (or Second Space).
4. Click Create and follow the system's prompts.

The system will propose:

• 🔐 Set a password or pattern lock to switch between tables.
• 📱 Select applications that will be duplicated on the second table (for example, WhatsApp, Telegram).
• 🎨 Set up separate wallpaper and theme of design.

⚠️ Note: On some firmware (for example, MIUI Global for Redmi 9A) The second desktop may be hidden, in which case use the alternative methods described below.

3. Alternative activation methods (if the function is hidden)

If the settings do not include the Second Desktop, try these methods:

Method 1: Through Developer Mode

Activate Developer Mode by pressing Version 7 times MIUI The phone menu:

1. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
2. Find the Second Space option (which can be called Double Space).
3. Turn it on and restart the device.

Method 2: ADB (for advanced users)

If the previous method didn’t work, use the ADB command:

adb shell settings put global multi_user_enabled 1

After completing the command, restart the smartphone. The function should appear in the settings.

Method 3: Installation MIUI China (risky!)

Some global firmware has disabled the function. If you're risk-averse, you can flash it. MIUI China via Fastboot or Recovery:

• ⚠️ Cancels the guarantee.
• 🌐 Requires knowledge of Chinese or the use of patches for Russification.
• 🔧 It can lead to data loss.

Important: On models with bootloader lock (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) For firmware, you will need an official permission from Xiaomi, which is not issued immediately.

4. Set up the second desktop: a step-by-step guide

Once the function is activated, you need to properly configure the second table to suit your tasks.

Step 1: Switch between tables

To switch between desktops:

• 🔄 Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification bar.
• 👤 Click on the user icon in the upper right corner.
• 🔒 Enter a password (if set).

Step 2: Personalization

On the second table, you can configure:

Step 3: Synchronizing data

By default, the second desktop is not synced to the main desktop.

• 📁 Use Mi Cloud (but the data will be available on both tables).
• 🔗 Connect. USB-drive and copy files manually.
• 📲 Install Total Commander or another file manager with access to both spaces.

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If you need to hide the app from prying eyes, install it only on the second desktop and turn off notifications, so it will not appear in the Quick Access menu.

Typical problems and their solutions

When using the second desktop, users often encounter errors.

Problem 1: The function disappeared after the update

After the update MIUI The second desk was missing:

• 🔄 Try resetting your settings through Settings → Annexes → Application management → Three points. → Resetting settings.
• 📥 Install the previous version MIUI recover.
• 📧 Write in support of Xiaomi with the model and firmware version.

Problem 2: Lack of memory

The second desktop takes up additional space (from 500 MB to 2 GB).

• 🗑️ Clear the cache through Settings → Memory. → Clean up.
• 🔧 Turn off the cloning of unnecessary applications.
• 📦 Transfer the media files to SD-card (if supported).

Issue 3: Appendices not updated

On the second table, Google Play may not work properly.

1. Delete your Google account on the second table.
2. Add it again through Settings. → Accounts.
3. Update Google Play Services manually.

⚠️ Note: Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online) may block work on a cloned desktop due to security policies.

6. Comparison with other methods of data separation

A second desktop isn’t the only way to separate personal and work data on Xiaomi.

If you just need to hide a few applications, just use the built-in Hidden Applications function in Settings. → Applications: For complete data isolation, a second desktop is the best option.

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The second desktop on Xiaomi is not just a duplicate screen, but a full-fledged separation of spaces with separate settings, applications and even accounts, which is the perfect solution for those who want to combine work and personal life on one device without the risk of data leakage.

7.Security: How to Protect Data on Table Two

One of the main advantages of the second desktop is the ability to hide confidential information. However, for maximum protection, follow these tips:

• 🔐 Set different passwords for the main and second table. Don't use the same graphic keys.
• 🚫 Turn off autocomplete passwords in the browser on the second table (if it is used for guest access).
• 📵 Set limits for applications through Settings → Permits to not have access to contacts or locations.
• 🔄 Clean the cache on the second table regularly, especially if it is used by other people.

If you are handing over a phone with the second table on (for example, a colleague or a child), additionally:

1. Turn off Google Pay and other payment services.
2. Delete your browser history and cookies.
3. Activate Settings → Confidentiality → Blocking applications for critical programs.

⚠️ Note: On some models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Ultra), the second desktop can automatically sync data to the Mi Cloud if you use the same account. To avoid leakage, create a separate Mi Account for the second table.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)