How to create a folder on the desktop Xiaomi 8 Pro: 5 proven ways

The desktop of the Xiaomi 8 Pro is quickly filled with app icons, especially if you’re actively using it. Chaotic icon placement not only spoils the aesthetics, but also slows down the search for the right software. Folders are an easy way to structure the space: combine messengers, games, working tools or multimedia into thematic groups. However, in MIUI (the branded shell of Xiaomi), this process has its own features that differ from standard Android.

Many users are struggling to find a folder option, accidentally delete icons when dragging and dropping, or not understand why the folder disappears after a reboot. In this article, we’ll look at all the ways available, from the basic drag and drop method to the hidden MIUI 14 features and the file manager, and learn how to return a remote folder, change its appearance, and why some apps refuse to group.

If you have just purchased the Xiaomi 8 Pro or updated your firmware, we recommend checking the MIUI version first. This depends on the availability of certain features. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. In older versions (below MIUI 12), the folder creation interface may differ.

Method 1: Standard Dragging Folder Creation

This is the most obvious and versatile method, working on all versions of MIUI. It requires no additional applications installed and takes less than 10 seconds.

Algorithm of action:

1. Unlock the screen and go to the main desktop (not in the app menu!).
2. Find two icons you want to combine, like Telegram and WhatsApp.
3. Press one icon (e.g. Telegram) and drag it to the second one (WhatsApp).
4. Once the icons are “connected,” release your finger, and a new folder with an automatically generated name (e.g., “Unused”) will appear.

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Attention: If you drag and drop the icon and you don't create the folder, check if the screen editing mode is activated. To do this, tap the empty space on your desktop and hold for 2 seconds. If the Widgets/Wallpaper/Settings menu appears, the editing mode is already on, exit by clicking on the back arrow.

By default, the folder gets its name by application category (e.g., Social Networks or Tools) to rename it:

1. Tap the folder once to open its contents.
2. Slip the name of the folder at the top of the screen.
3. Enter a new name (up to 12 characters) and click “Done”.

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If the folder accidentally turns out to be empty (for example, you drag the icon back), it will automatically delete after 5 seconds. To avoid this, immediately add at least one application to it.

Method 2: Using the folder widget in MIUI

MIUI offers an alternative way to create folders through a special widget, which is convenient if you want to pre-name a folder or add more than 10 applications (the standard method limits the number of icons in the folder).

Instructions:

1. Press and hold the empty space on your desktop until the menu appears.
2. Select "Widgets" (Widgets).
3. Scroll down the list and find the Folder widget.
4. Drag him to the desk.
5. In the window that opens, enter the folder name (for example, “Work”) and click “Create”.
6. Now add apps: click “Add apps” and tick the desired icons.

The advantage of this method is that you can sort applications inside the folder by alphabet, frequency of use or manually.

1. Open the folder.
2. Touch the three dots in the upper right corner.
3. Select “Sort” and specify the desired criterion.

Method 3: Create a folder through a file manager

This method is suitable for users who want to group not only applications but also files (such as documents, photos or APK).In MIUI, the file manager is integrated with the desktop, which allows you to create “smart” folders with quick access to frequently used data.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the File Manager app.
2. Go to the Categories section (bottom of the screen).
3. Select the type of files you want to group (such as “Documents” or “Images”).
4. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select "Add to desktop."
5. Confirm the creation of a shortcut – a folder with quick access to selected files will appear on the screen.

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Note: Folders created through the file manager do not support adding application icons. They are only for files. If you need to combine both, use a combination of a standard folder (for applications) and a file manager shortcut (for data).

To remove such a folder from the desktop:

1. Press her icon and drag her to the basket (appears at the top of the screen).
2. Or tap the folder, then click “Delete” in the bottom menu.

Method 4: Part of the application for advanced folder management

If standard MIUI features don't suit you, you can use third-party launchers or utilities, which offer advanced settings: folder resize, transparency, opening animations, and even a folder password.

Top.-3 folder-based:

• 📁 Nova Launcher – allows you to create folders with gestures (for example, swipe up to open), customize their appearance and group icons by tags.
• 🔒 FolderLock – Adds password or fingerprint protection to folders with sensitive apps.
• 🎨 POCO Launcher (from Xiaomi) – optimized for Xiaomi devices, supports app categorization and smart search inside folders.

How to install and configure Nova Launcher:

1. Download Nova Launcher from Google Play.
2. After installation, click Home and select Nova as the default launcher.
3. Click the blank space on the screen → “Settings” → “Folders”.
4. Here you can: Change folder style (for example, “Vertical” or “Horizontal”), set up opening animation (the effect “Zoom” or “Slide”), turn on the notifications on the folder icon.

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Note: When using third-party launchers, some MIUI features (such as a weather widget or smart assistant) may not work properly.

Backup of current screen settings|Check the Compatibility Reviews with MIUI 14|Disable battery optimization for launcher|Make sure you have 200 MB of free memory-->

Method 5: Hidden folders and privacy protection

If you store personal data folders on your desktop (such as banking apps or photos), they can be hidden from prying eyes. MIUI offers two options:

1. Hiding the folder through the "Second Space":

1. Go to Settings → Special Opportunities → Second Space.
2. Create a second profile (think up a password).
3. Return to the desktop, press the folder and drag it to the Second Space menu (will appear after the function is activated).

2.Use of the application "Security" (Security):

1. Open the Security app.
2. Go to the “Privacy” section → “Hidden Apps”.
3. Add the folder to the list of hidden (for this, pre-create a folder and add the necessary applications to it).

Comparison of folder creation methods:

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For most users of Xiaomi 8 Pro, a combined approach will be optimal: standard folders for frequently used applications + a folder widget for large groups (for example, Games with 15+ icons).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions