How to change the wallpaper on the lock screen Xiaomi: 5 ways to MIUI

Why can’t you just change the lock wallpaper on Xiaomi?

Xiaomi’s MIUI-based smartphones have historically limited users in customizing the lock screen. Unlike “pure” Android, where desktop wallpaper and locks are synchronized automatically, they are managed separately — and this is not a coincidence. The manufacturer motivates this decision with security: the lock background can contain personal information (for example, photos of loved ones) that attackers can see even without unlocking the device.

MIUI also actively promotes its own services: by default, you will see themes from Xiaomi Themes or partners in the wallpaper gallery. But that doesn’t mean you have to put up with imposed design. There are at least 5 working ways to change the background, from standard settings to workarounds for advanced users. The main thing is to understand that not all methods are equally safe, and some can lead to resetting the lock screen settings after the MIUI update.

Method 1: Standard Replacement through MIUI settings

The most obvious and safe method is to use built-in shell tools, which is suitable for most models, including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T and other devices on MIUI 12-14.

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the Lock Screen section (or Wallpaper → Lock screen on new versions).
3. Slip on the lock screen wallpaper.
4. Select the source: 📷 Gallery - any of your photos (permission is recommended not lower than this). 1080×2340 modern-day smartphones). 🎨 Topics – Xiaomi Wallpaper Collection (requires Internet connection). 🖼️ Live wallpaper - animated backgrounds (not available on all models).

Apply

⚠️ Note: On certain devices (e.g, POCO F4) After selecting a photo from the gallery, the system may suggest that you cut it to the screen format. If the proportions don't match, the background is stretched or cut at the edges. To avoid distortion, use 9:20 aspect ratio images.

Does the photo have sufficient resolution (minimum 1080px in width)|

Is the power saving mode turned off (can block changes)|

Is there a free space in the memory (MIUI demand ~50MB for wallpaper cache)|

Is the phone connected to charging (for live wallpaper)

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Method 2: Using the Themes app for unique backgrounds

The Themes app is not only a collection of wallpapers, but also a tool for deep customization of the interface, and you can find exclusive backgrounds that are not available through standard settings.

1. Open the Themes app (if not, download from Google Play or AppGallery).
2. Go to the Wallpaper tab in the lower menu.
3. Select a category (e.g. Nature, Abstraction, or Minimalism).
4. Slip on your favorite background and click Apply on the lock screen.

Once a week |

Once a month |

Only when you buy a new phone |

Never change.

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Method 3: Bypassing restrictions through Developer Mode

If standard methods don't work (e.g., Xiaomi 12S Ultra with custom firmware), you can use hidden settings. This method requires activation of the developer mode, but does not need root rights.

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on MIUI Version (you will receive a notification "You became a developer").

Settings → Additional → For Developers

Disable the MIUI wallpaper protection

Disable MIUI Wallpaper Protection

Reboot the phone.

Settings → Wallpaper

⚠️ Note: This method can reset lock screen settings (including fingerprints and pattern lock) on some versions MIUI. Before activating the developer mode, make sure to remember the password from the Mi Account account – it will be required to re-assign biometrics.

Method 4: Installation of wallpaper through third-party applications

If the built-in MIUI tools don't suit you, you can use third-party apps from Google Play.

To install wallpaper through a third-party application:

1. Download and install one of the apps above.
2. Select your favorite background and tap Set on the lock screen.
3. If the system requests permission to Overlay over other windows, provide it.
4. Reboot your phone (optional, but recommended for correct display).

💡

For AMOLED-On the screens (for example, on Xiaomi 13 Pro) choose wallpaper with a predominance of black color – this will reduce power consumption by 10-15%.

Method 5: Manually modifying through the file system (for advanced ones)

This method is suitable for users with unlocked bootloader or root rights, it allows you to manually replace the system file wallpaper, which gives you complete control over the appearance. Risks: if you fail, you can damage the system files, which will lead to a bootloop ( looped reboot).

Step-by-step:

1. Install a file manager with root access (such as Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer).
2. Cross the path: /data/system/users/0/wallpaper_lockscreen_image or (for older versions) MIUI): /data/data/com.android.settings/files/wallpaper_lockscreen
3. Delete or rename the current wallpaper file (e.g., in the wallpaper_lockscreen_old).
4. Copy your image into this folder and rename it to wallpaper_lockscreen_image (for MIUI 14) or wallpaper_lockscreen (for MIUI 12).
5. Change the file access permissions to 644 (rw-r----).
6. Reboot the phone.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions