Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones often encounter an intrusive interface element, the Google search bar, which is the default location at the bottom of the screen.This widget takes up useful space, distracts from the minimalist design and, in the opinion of many users, is simply not needed in everyday use. Fortunately, the MIUI shell and the newer HyperOS provide built-in tools to manage this element.
The process of removing or hiding a search bar does not require root rights or deep technical knowledge. You will need to use standard system settings or, in more difficult cases, third-party launchers. Below we will discuss in detail all available methods, from simple switching the toggler in the menu to completely replacing the interface.
It’s worth noting that settings may vary slightly depending on the Android version and the firmware region, but the overall algorithm remains the same for most current models, including the Redmi Note series and the flagship Xiaomi Mi. Let’s take a look at how to restore cleanliness to your desktop.
Standard method of disconnection through desktop settings
The easiest and safest way to remove an intrusive string is to use the built-in shell settings menu, which works on devices with MIUI 12, 13, 14 and HyperOS. You don't need to install additional software, which eliminates the risk of system disruption or loss of warranty.
To start, unlock your smartphone and go to the home screen. Push two fingers (put them together) or just press the empty area on your desktop with your finger for a few seconds. The screen will show a preview menu and a button bottom bar. Find and press the Settings button (the gear icon).
In the menu that opens, select Another (or go to the settings section if it is displayed separately) and you will need to find the option for displaying widgets here, which can be called Search String, Google Card or Google Card.
☑️ Algorithm of disabling search string
Once you do this, the search bar will disappear instantly from the bottom bar. If you don't see that, maybe your firmware version has a slightly different menu structure, and then you should look for the Search section in the general system settings. In some cases, you need to reboot the device to apply the changes.
⚠️ Note: Some global firmware versions (Global) ROM) The option can be forced on and hidden from the user, in which case the standard method will not work, and you will need to use third-party launchers.
Using third-party launchers for full customization
If the built-in MIUI tools don't allow you to remove the string, or you want to radically change the look of the interface, the ideal solution is to install a third-party launcher, special applications that completely replace the standard desktop, providing huge opportunities for customization.
Popular and proven options are Nova Launcher, Lawnchair or Microsoft Launcher. Once you install such an application from Google Play, the system will prompt you to choose it by default. In the new launcher settings, you can not only remove the search, but also change the grid of icons, animations and fonts.
Why should you try Lawnchair?
It’s important to understand that when using a third-party launcher, you lose access to some specific features of the Xiaomi shell, such as Second Space or quick access gestures in the app menu.
To set up the search widget in the new launcher, go to its settings and find the Dock or Search Bar section, where you can select the "No" option or disable the display of the Google widget, and this is guaranteed to remove the row from the bottom forever, even after the system updates.
Delete by disabling the Google system component
For advanced users who want to get the most out of the launcher, there is a method to disable the system component that displays the widget, which requires caution because it affects Android system processes.
This is a Google app or a Google App. Go to your smartphone Settings, select the App section and search the Google list. In the menu that opens, try clicking the Disable button. If the button is inactive, this method is not available for your firmware version.
In some cases, cleaning the app data helps. Go to Memory inside the Google app settings and click Clear.This will reset the widget settings and it may stop showing, although it doesn't guarantee 110% of the result on all Redmi and POCO models.
| Method | Difficulty | Risk of error | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI settings | Low. | Absent. | Tall. |
| Third-party launcher | Medium | Minimum | Maximum |
| Turning off Google App | Tall. | Medium. | Medium |
⚠️ Note: Do not attempt to remove Google system applications through root-right file managers unless you are confident in your actions).
Configuring widgets in editing mode
Sometimes the search bar is not a system element, but simply a fixed widget that the user accidentally added earlier. MIUI and HyperOS interface have a convenient editing mode, allowing you to control all the elements on the screen.
Press the area where the search bar is. If it's a widget, it'll be framed, and a toolbar will appear on top or bottom. Press the basket icon or cross to remove the item. If the system asks for confirmation, agree to the action.
Also on this menu, you can often add widgets, and you can go there and find the Google widget and see its properties, and sometimes there's a Show on All Screens switch, which will hide the line, leaving the widget in memory.
This method is especially relevant for those who have recently upgraded from older versions of Android, where widgets could be added automatically.
Specifics of removal in HyperOS and new versions of MIUI
With the release of HyperOS, Xiaomi has changed the logic of the interface: in new firmware versions, the search bar can be integrated deeper into the system or, conversely, become more flexible. Users note that in HyperOS, the shutdown option has often moved to the Home screen section.
Owners of new flagships such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro should pay attention to the theme settings. Some official themes block the ability to delete the search bar, in which case changing the theme to the standard (Classic or Default) can return access to the desired switches.
In addition, the new versions have a feature called “Smart Search Bar”, which combines search on the phone and on the Internet, and you can only turn it off through hidden settings or ADB-commands, if the standard settings path → The desktop does not contain the necessary tumbler.
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Tip: If you upgrade to HyperOS and you can’t remove the search, try resetting the launcher settings. To do this, type “Luncher” in your settings search and select “Reset Settings”.
It is important to keep an eye on system updates. Xiaomi often returns or removes features in different versions of the software. If there is no option today, it may appear in a new security patch in a month.
Advanced Level: Using ADB to Remove
For experienced users who have not been helped by the above methods, the option of using the ADB debugging bridge remains. This method allows you to remove or freeze system components, including the package responsible for the search widget.
You'll need a computer, USB-cable and installed drivers ADB. On the smartphone, you need to activate the developer mode (7 times click on the build number in About phone) and enable Debugging by USB. Then connect the phone to the PC.
In the command line on the computer, enter the command to search for the package:
adb shell pm list packages | grep googleFind the package associated with the widget (often com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox).
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox⚠️ Note: Disabling system packages through ADB This can cause the Google Assistant voice assistant to work in an unstable way and the Find Device feature, and only use this method if you understand the consequences.
This is the only guaranteed way to remove search on custom builds or from operator versions of firmware, where the manufacturer rigidly blocks the standard settings.
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Using ADB gives you complete control over the system, but requires caution: one mistake in the command can make the smartphone unusable without flashing.