Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone owners often face the desire to make the device interface as clean and minimal as possible.The standard MIUI shell or the new HyperOS displays text signatures under each icon by default, which can create visual noise, especially if you use bright wallpaper.
Unfortunately, the basic Xiaomi system settings don’t have a simple switch that instantly hides text for all apps at once, but there are several proven ways to get around this limitation: You can use built-in themes that change the display style, or you can turn to third-party launchers that provide flexible customization options.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods for removing app names, and we will look at both secure ways through the theme store and more advanced options with a replacement desktop, which will help you make the lock screen and desktop really unique and easy to understand.
Using built-in themes to hide text
The easiest and safest way to change the look of icons and remove inscriptions is to use the official Themes app. Developers around the world create designs that either have their signatures disabled by default or are made as invisible as possible.
In the search box, type in queries like "No text," "Clean icons," or "Minimal." When you look at the preview, pay attention to the screenshots: if there is no text under the icons, then this theme supports the concealment of names. Once you install this theme, the system will apply a new style of desktop design.
Consider that using a theme can change not only the presence of text, but also the shape of the icons themselves, as well as the color of the system elements. Some themes may be paid or contain advertising, so carefully study the description before downloading. If you liked only the functionality of the text hiding, and the design is not suitable, you can try mixing elements of different themes in the editor.
How to change the topic if you don’t like it?
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The use of themes is the only regular way to hide text without installing additional software from third-party sources.
Installation of third-party launchers
If standard themes don't work, the most effective solution is to install an alternative launcher. Launcher is an application that completely replaces the standard desktop and application menu. Popular options like Nova Launcher, Lawnchair or Microsoft Launcher allow you to customize each interface element in detail.
Once you install and launch a third-party launcher, the system will request permission to use it as the default primary screen. You will have access to the advanced settings. The launcher settings menu usually has a Desktop or Interface section where the icon signature or Show icon labels switch is located. By disabling this option, you will remove the text from all shortcuts.
Importantly, third-party launchers can consume slightly more battery life than Xiaomi’s system launcher.In addition, some features specific to MIUI, such as swipes to call menus or widgets, may function differently.
Display settings in Nova Launcher
Nova Launcher is considered one of the most powerful tools for customizing Android. To remove the app names in this launcher, you need to perform several sequential actions. First install the app from Google Play and make it the main one.
Then, press the empty space on your desktop and select Settings. From the menu that opens, go to Desktop. You need to find the icon signature option. When you click on it, you'll see the Show switch. Turn it to Off.
After that, all the app names on the home screen will disappear. If you want to leave your signatures only in the app menu, but remove them from the desktop, use different settings for those sections. You can also set the font size in Nova Launcher to make it transparent if you can't hide it completely for some reason.
☑️ Setting up Nova Launcher
Features of the HyperOS and MIUI 14 shell
With the release of new firmware versions such as MIUI 14 and HyperOS, Xiaomi is implementing changes to its security policies and third-party applications, and in some cases, the system may force the return of a standard launcher after a device reboot or security updates.
This is due to a malware protection mechanism that requires confirmation of use of a third-party interface. You may need to confirm the launcher selection each time you start the system. To minimize inconvenience, you can find the "Application Manager" or "Applications" option in Xiaomi's security settings, where you should allow auto-start for the selected launcher.
Newer versions of the shells also improve the desktop mesh, so by removing text, you get more space for widgets and icons, and this is especially true for larger-screen devices where standard indentations may seem redundant. Users note that a clean interface without text looks more aesthetically pleasing to the user. AMOLED-display.
⚠️ Note: When using third-party launchers on new versions of HyperOS, you may periodically reset animation settings or return to the standard interface after system updates.
Comparison of methods for deleting signatures
The choice of how to remove names depends on your goals and level of technical training. Below is a comparative table of basic methods that will help determine the best solution for your device.
| Method | Difficulty | Impact on the system | Flexibility of setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI themes | Low. | Minimum | Medium |
| Nova Launcher | Medium | Moderate. | Tall. |
| Lawnchair | Medium | Minimum | Tall. |
| Root modifications | Tall. | Critical | Maximum |
As you can see from the table, the use of themes is the least risky method, does not require deep interference with the system. Installing launchers gives more freedom, but requires getting used to the new interface. Root rights provide full control, but can deprive guarantees and disrupt banking applications.
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Before installing any third-party launcher, take a screenshot of the location of your widgets, as when changing the desktop, they can get lost or disappear.
Possible problems and solutions
Users may face a number of difficulties in customizing the interface, such as widgets or folders that are not displayed correctly after installing a theme without text, in which case it is recommended to clear the theme app cache through the smartphone settings menu.
If you use a third-party launcher and the icons still show up with the text, check the settings of the specific application.Some Xiaomi system applications ignore the settings of third-party launchers and forcibly display their shortcuts, in which case creating an application shortcut through the launcher itself, rather than through the system menu, will help.
Another common problem is low resolution icons, where you take down text and you focus on graphics, and you get low-quality images, and for the perfect result, you should use high-resolution icon packs that are compatible with your launcher, and you can find them in the Play Store on the request for the "Icon Pack."
⚠️ Note: Do not download themes and launchers from unverified sources. Use only the official Google Play store or the built-in Xiaomi store to avoid infecting your device with malicious code.