How to install wallpaper on the lock screen Xiaomi without wallpaper carousel: proven ways

Are you tired of Xiaomi’s standard wallpaper carousel that automatically changes the background or offers only a limited selection of images? Many MIUI users face this problem: the system imposes its own design rules even if you want to capture one favorite image. Fortunately, there are several working ways to get around this limitation — from simple settings to hidden features and even bypassing through ADB.

In this article, we will discuss 3 current methods of installing wallpaper on the lock screen without a carousel, including nuances for different versions of MIUI (from 12 to 14) and smartphone models - from budget Redmi to flagship Xiaomi 13/14.

• 🔧 Use the built-in settings MIUI switch off automatic wallpaper
• 📱 Set a static background through third-party applications (without root rights)
• 💻 Apply ADB-commands for forced image fixation

Important: The methods are tested on current firmware (2023-2026) and do not require unlocking the bootloader or getting root access. However, some methods may not work on all devices, depending on Xiaomi’s policy in your region.

Why Xiaomi imposes wallpaper carousel and can it be turned off?

The lock screen wallpaper carousel is part of the MIUI branded shell that automatically uploads new images from Xiaomi services (such as Mi Wallpaper Carousel).

• 📊 Monetization: part of the wallpaper contains banner ads or promotional content (for example, announcements of new devices).
• 🔄 Personalization: Algorithms MIUI analyze your preferences and select backgrounds for the style of use.
• 🌍 Regional restrictions: In some countries (such as India or China), the carousel is on by default and not disabled via the menu.

Officially, the carousel can only be disabled on individual models via the Settings menu → Lock screen → Wallpaper, but often this option is hidden or locked. For example, on the Redmi Note 12 with MIUI 14, the option may not be available, whereas on the Xiaomi 13 Pro it is available. This is due to different firmware versions for global (Global), Chinese (China) and European (EEA) builds.

If you don't have a switch on your menu to turn off the carousel, don't worry -- we'll look at workarounds below, but first check if the option is hidden in the additional settings.

Method 1: Disable the carousel through hidden MIUI settings

On some Xiaomi devices, the option to disable the wallpaper carousel is hidden in the advanced settings, which works on MIUI 13/14 for global and European firmware, but may not be available on the Chinese versions.

Instructions:

1. Open the Settings → Lock screen.
2. Slip on the item Wallpaper (or Wallpaper in English firmware).
3. In the upper right corner, press three dots (⋮) Select Wallpaper Settings (Wallpaper Settings).
4. Look for the Wallpaper Carousel switch or Automatic Change – turn it off.

If this is not the case, try an alternative route:

1. Go to Settings → Wallpaper.
2. Choose My Wallpapers category.
3. Click on any image and hold it for 2-3 seconds – a context menu with the option to Use as static wallpaper may appear.

⚠️ Note: On some devices (e.g. Poco) X5 or Redmi 10C) After the carousel is turned off, the wallpaper can be reset after the restart.

Method 2: Using third-party applications (without root)

If the built-in settings don't help, you can install wallpaper through third-party apps. Best options for Xiaomi:

• 📌 Wallpaper Changer – allows you to fix wallpaper on the lock screen, bypassing restrictions MIUI.
• 🎨 Muzei Live Wallpaper – supports static images and integrates with system settings.
• 🔄 Tapet – generates unique wallpaper, but also knows how to block automatic shift.

The following is a step-by-step instruction for Wallpaper Changer:

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Open it and select the Lock Screen section.
3. Upload your image or select from the gallery.
4. Click Set Wallpaper and confirm your choice.
5. In the application settings, activate the option Disable MIUI Carousel (Disable MIUI carousel).

⚠️ Note: Some apps (such as Zedge) do not block the carousel MIUI, You just add your wallpaper to it. Before you install it, check user reviews with your smartphone model.

If the applications don’t help, the last reliable way is to use them. ADB-team.

Method 3: Fixing wallpapers via ADB (for power users)

This method requires connecting your smartphone to your computer and using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool, which works on all versions of MIUI, but requires care - the wrong commands can disrupt the system.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB Tools.
• 📱 Included debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Tap 7 times, then go back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original or quality).

Instructions:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm the debugging permission.
2. Open the command prompt (cmd) in the folder with ADB.
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices must appear serial number of your device.
4. Use the command to disable wallpaper carousel: adb shell settings put global lock_screen_wallpaper_enabled 1
5. Set your wallpaper through the standard MIUI menu (they will be fixed).

Critical: After execution ADB-commands don't update wallpaper through the system menu - it can return the carousel. If the background is reset, repeat step 4.

⚠️ Note: On some firmware (for example, MIUI 14 China after use ADB You may be warned of an “unauthorized change of settings” that can be ignored, but if you plan to contact Xiaomi service center, it is better to return the settings to the standard settings:

adb shell settings put global lock_screen_wallpaper_enabled 0

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even after successfully installing wallpaper, users are faced with typical errors.

Problem 1: Wallpaper is reset after reset.

• 🔹 Solution: Repeat fixing through ADB Or use the Wallpaper Changer app with autofix option.

Problem 2: The lock screen displays a black background instead of wallpaper.

• 🔹 Solution: Check if the power saving mode is enabled (Settings) → Battery → Power saving mode. Turn it off or add a wallpaper app to exceptions.

Problem 3: The carousel returns after the MIUI update.

• 🔹 Solution: Repeat all the steps after the update (especially) ADB-Some updates reset user settings.

💡

If the wallpaper is blurry, check their resolution.The optimal ratio for most Xiaomi is 1080×2340 pixels (for models with a cutout under the camera).

Alternative methods (for advanced users)

If none of these things worked, you can try more radical solutions, which require more knowledge or risk to the system.

1. Installation of custom firmware

Firmware like Pixel Experience or LineageOS removes the MIUI carousel completely, but requires unlocking the bootloader and can be unwarranted.

2.Use of the Magisk module

The MIUI Carousel Disabler for Magisk locks the carousel at the system level.

3. Manual replacement of system files

You can replace the standard wallpaper in /system/media/theme/default/wallpapers with ADB or Root Explorer, but it is risky – if you make an error, the system can stop booting.

💡

Before using alternative methods, back up your data through Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions