How to completely remove the tape widgets on Xiaomi: from simple to complex

The MIUI widget tape is one of the most controversial interface elements that annoys many Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO users. It takes up space on the home screen, consumes resources and often shows unnecessary advertising or news. Unlike standard Android, where widgets can be simply removed by swipe, in MIUI this process is complicated - the manufacturer deliberately hides some settings so that users interact with branded services.

In this article, we will discuss all the working ways to remove the widget tape, from basic (available on the menu) to advanced (using ADB and modification of system files). Particular attention will be paid to the nuances for different versions of MIUI (12 to 14) and smartphone models where the interface may differ. If you are tired of the annoying tape to the left of the main screen, this guide will help get rid of it forever.

Why does the widget tape appear and can it be removed forever?

The Widget Ribbon (or MIUI Smart Assistant) is a proprietary element of the Xiaomi shell that is integrated into the system at the firmware level. It appears by default on all devices with MIUI and performs several functions:

  • 📱 Displaying fast widgets (weather, calendar, notes).
  • 📰 News Feed with Advertising (in some regions).
  • 🔄 Integration with Xiaomi services (Mi Account, Mi Home, Mi Fit).
  • 🎯 Personalized recommendations based on your activity.

Technically, the tape can be removed, but the methods vary in complexity. On newer versions of MIUI 13/14, the manufacturer has restricted access to disconnection through standard settings, so often you have to use workarounds - from editing configuration files to rollback commands via ADB.

📊 What version? MIUI you have installed?
MIUI 12
MIUI 13
MIUI 14
The other one/I don't know/

Important: Some methods require unlocking the bootloader or root rights, which can lead to a loss of warranty.

Method 1: Disconnect via standard settings (MIUI 12 and later)

Starting with MIUI 12, Xiaomi has added the ability to partially hide the widget tape, but not all users know where to look for this option.The instructions are relevant for most models, including the Redmi Note 10/11/12, Xiaomi 11T/12/13, POCO F3/F4/F5:

  1. Open the Settings. → Main screen screen.
  2. Scroll down and find the Widget Tape section (or Smart Assistant in English firmware).
  3. Turn off the slider Show the widget tape.
  4. Reboot your smartphone (required!) to make the changes take effect.

If there is no such item, then your version of MIUI does not support standard shutdown, in which case move on to the following methods.

Get 100% battery charge

Make a backup copy of important data

Make sure that the MIUI version is at least 12.

Turn off automatic system updates-->

Limitation: Even after you turn off, the tape may appear when you update your firmware. To avoid this, use the methods in the following sections.

Method 2: Removal via ADB (without root)

If the standard settings don’t work, the most reliable way to do this is to use Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method does not require root rights, but requires a computer and USB-It's suitable for all versions. MIUI, including MIUI 14 Xiaomi 13/13 Pro and Redmi Note 12.

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn on Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on the MIUI Version until the notification appears.

USB debugging

  • Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
  • Turn on USB debugging and confirm the permission.
  • Connect your smartphone to your PC and execute commands: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.systemAdSolution adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.weather2

Warning: Before deleting system files, backup via TWRP or Mi Flash Tool. Recover remote applets can only be flashed.

💡

If after deleting files, the smartphone stopped booting, press Power + Volume Up to log into Recovery and restore the backup.

Method 4: Using third-party launchers

If you don't want to mess around with ADB or root, the easiest workaround is to install an alternative launcher. It won't physically remove the widget tape, but it will hide its display. Best options for Xiaomi:

  • 🚀 Nova Launcher – supports gestures, hiding icons and full customization.
  • ⚡ Lawnchair is an open source lightweight launcher optimized for Android.
  • 🎨 Hyperion Launcher – imitates Pixel Launcher with adaptive icons.
  • 🔄 Microsoft Launcher – Integration with Windows and Cloud Services.