Users of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones often face a situation where the device interface stops responding, icons disappear or the system behaves incorrectly. In such cases, the question arises about how to remove the desktop on Xiaomi to restore the normal operation of the gadget. In fact, complete removal of the system component is impossible and unnecessary, as this will cause the device to malfunction, but there is an effective procedure for resetting the launcher settings that solves most problems.
In Android, and in particular in the MIUI and HyperOS shells, the desktop is not just a picture, but a full-fledged system application that displays widgets, folders and app menus. When you're looking for a way to "delete" it, you essentially want to clear up accumulated configuration errors or reset items to factory status. This is a safe and often the only way to fix bugs after a failed update.
Before you go into action, it is important to understand that resetting the launcher will return your main screen to its original state by removing the folders and widgets you created, but will save the applications themselves. Attention: this procedure does not affect personal files, photos or contacts, but it is recommended to have a backup of important data just in case. Below we will discuss in detail all the steps of restoring the functionality of the interface.
Understanding the Desktop Structure in MIUI and HyperOS
To successfully manage a system, you need to realize that the desktop in Xiaomi smartphones is a system process hidden from the eyes of the average user. Unlike files in the gallery that can be simply erased, system components require a special approach. Trying to remove this component through third-party file managers with root rights can lead to a “bootloop” (cyclic reboot) or the appearance of a black screen when turned on.
MIUI shells and the new HyperOS use a proprietary launcher that is deeply integrated into security and energy saving, which is why standard application removal methods don't work here. It protects critical processes from accidental or malicious removal. When users ask how to remove the desktop, they often mean the need to resolve conflicts between system updates and current display settings.
Technical details of the launcher
It's important to distinguish between "delete the application" and "clean the application data." In the context of the desktop, we need the second one. Cleaning up the data forces the system to re-read the configuration files and build the interface from scratch, ignoring the corrupted cached data, which is key to understanding the next algorithm of actions.
Preparation for resetting interface settings
So, you need to do a little bit of training before you interfere with system components, and that's to avoid losing the important shortcuts and settings that you've been building for months, and while it's safe, the human factor hasn't been reversed, you'd better be safe with a few simple steps.
First of all, make sure you have a stable Internet connection, as after a reset, the launcher may need to download fresh widget or wallpaper data.It is also worth checking the battery level - it should be at least 30-40% so that the device does not turn off at a critical time of setting up.
☑️ Checklist for preparation for discharge
If you have important widgets, like bank cards or specific step counters, write down how they were configured. You'll have to add them again after reset. You should also consider that resetting can change the order of desktop pages if you've used classic or standard mode.
Instructions: how to reset the desktop settings
The procedure, often referred to as desktop “deleting,” is technically a data cleanup of the system application, which returns the launcher to a “just out of the box” state, which can be done through the standard smartphone settings menu without having to resort to complex code manipulation.
To start, open your device's Settings menu. Find a section that could be called Apps or All Apps. Depending on the version of MIUI or HyperOS, the interface may be slightly different, but the logic remains the same. You need to find the desktop system application on the list.
- 📱 Go to Settings. → Annexes → All applications.
- 🔍 In search, type in the word “worker” or manually find the Desktop item (sometimes it may be called “Launcher” or have a house icon).
- 🗑️ Click on the name of the application, then select Memory or Storage.
- ⚙️ In the menu that opens, click the Clean button (or the broom icon) and then select Clean Everything or Reset Settings.
Once confirmed, the smartphone screen can blink and all the icons will disappear for a moment. This is a normal system reaction that restarts the launcher process. In a few seconds, you will see a standard, clean desktop, the same as the first time you turn on the phone.
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Cleaning up the Desktop data does not delete your photos, contacts or apps themselves, it only resets their location and display settings on the screen.
Alternative method through hidden menu
There is another way to access launcher management that can be useful if the standard settings menu is unavailable or not working properly, using the phone's diagnostic menu, which is hidden from the average user but accessible through a special code.
Open the Phone app and dial the combination ##6484##. This will open the CIT engineering menu. However, it is more effective to reset the launcher directly to manage applications through settings search, as the engineering menu in new versions of MIUI is often limited.
A more reliable hidden path is to use the search bar in the settings themselves. Click on the magnifying glass at the top of the Settings menu and type in the phrase "Desktop." The system will suggest you move to managing this component, which is faster and safer than wandering through deep menus.
⚠️ Note: Do not attempt to delete system files through Root file managers unless you are an experienced developer.This may compromise security integrity and block access to banking applications.
Solving problems after the launcher reset
Once you have done the reset, there may be some nuances that require your attention, such as weather widgets or Mi Vision (or Google Discover) news feeds, which is expected behavior because the settings have been reset.
You'll need to reconfigure the left page (if you've used one) and add widgets. Swipe right on the home screen, or tap and hold your finger to the blank to enter editing mode, and you can bring back all the comforts you're used to.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| App icons have disappeared | Regime Change (Classical/Standard) | Settings → Desktop Mode → Desktop Mode |
| Widgets don't work. | Lack of permission or internet | Add the widget again through the editing menu |
| Black screen when switched on | The launcher process error | Restart the device or clear the cache again |
| I'm not sorting. | Resetting sorting settings | Sort manually or by name in the app menu |
If the phone is slowing down after reset, give it time. Android takes some time to re-index files and optimize background processes. Usually, performance is restored within 10-15 minutes of active use.
Using third-party launchers as an alternative
If Xiaomi’s desktop seems overloaded or continues to cause questions, an alternative launcher is a great solution, a complete replacement for the standard interface that gives more freedom in customization and often works more stable on older models.
Popular options like Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher or Smart Launcher allow you to completely change the look of your smartphone. Once you install such an application, the system will ask which launcher to use by default. By choosing a new one, you will actually "remove" the influence of the old desktop on your experience.
- 🚀 Nova Launcher: Maximum flexibility of settings and animations.
- 📊 Microsoft Launcher: Great integration with Windows and Office.
- 🧠 Smart Launcher: Automatic Application Sorting and Minimalism.
For most users, however, it’s a great way to breathe new life into the device without the need for complex technical interventions.
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Expert advice: Before installing a third-party launcher, turn off the option "Memory Acceleration" in the battery settings for the new application so that the system does not close it in the background.
⚠️ Note: When installing a third-party launcher, make sure you download it from the official Google Play Store. APK-files may contain malicious code, since the launcher has broad permissions to access the interface.