Xiaomi’s current smartphones use gesture control by default, which allows for more screen space. However, many users who have switched from other devices or are just used to the classics feel uncomfortable with the lack of the usual buttons at the bottom of the display. Returning to traditional navigation is a simple process that takes less than a minute, but significantly changes the usability of the gadget in everyday life.
In this article, we will discuss how to turn on the screen buttons on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO using the current versions of the MIUI and HyperOS shell. You will learn not only about the standard activation path, but also about additional settings, such as changing the order of buttons or hiding the navigation bar.
Whether you have a budget Redmi Note or a flagship Xiaomi 14, the customization logic remains almost identical. We’ll look at the nuances so you don’t have any questions about personalizing your navigation bar. Let’s start setting up your device for maximum comfort.
Differences between gestures and buttons in MIUI and HyperOS
Before making changes, it's important to understand the difference between the two main ways of navigating. Gesture management involves swiping from the edges of the screen: swiping up to access the desktop, swiping with delay for the multitasking menu, and swiping from the side faces to go back, which visually frees the bottom of the screen but requires getting used to the accuracy of the movements.
In contrast, screen buttons are a classic three-part interface: Back, Home, and App Menu, a more tactile and understandable way for most users who have used Android smartphones for years, and the inclusion of buttons often solves the problem of random swipes when the phone is in their hand or pocket.
The MIUI shells and the new HyperOS provide flexible tools to switch between these modes, allowing you not only to choose the type of navigation, but also to fine-tune its behavior, for example, you can change the sensitivity of gestures or the location of buttons if you choose the second option.
⚠️ Attention: When switching to gestures, the system may offer a training tour. If you are firmly committed to using buttons, read the pop-ups carefully so that you do not accidentally activate gesture learning instead of buttons.
Choosing the right navigation method is a matter of personal ergonomics, some users value minimal gestures, others value the predictability of buttons. Fortunately, Xiaomi allows you to change this setting at any time without losing data or having to restart the device.
Step-by-step instructions for activating buttons
The process of enabling navigation buttons in Xiaomi settings is standardized, but item names may vary slightly depending on the firmware version. The main path lies through system settings, where all device management options are concentrated.
- 📱 Open the Settings app on your smartphone and find the “Advanced” section or immediately look for the “Full Screen” item».
- 🖱️ In the menu that opens, select the option “In-app navigation” or “System navigation».
- ✅ Switch the switch from “Gesta” to “Buttons” to activate the classic view of the control panel.
After doing these steps, a three-button bar will instantly appear at the bottom of the screen. The interface will change immediately, without the need to reboot. If you do not find the Full Screen option in the main settings menu, use the search bar at the top of the settings screen and enter the Navigation request.
☑️ Checking button activation
It’s worth noting that on some global firmware versions, the path may look like Settings → Desktop → Navigation. In the HyperOS shell, Xiaomi engineers sometimes change the menu structure, so searching for settings is the fastest way to find the right switch.
Setting the location and order of the buttons
One of the key features of Android navigation on Xiaomi devices is the ability to change the order of the buttons. By default, the back button is on the left, but many users who have switched from Samsung or Huawei smartphones are used to seeing it on the right, and the system makes it easy to fix this inconvenience.
You don't need third-party apps or superuser rights to change the layout, all the tools you need are built into the same section where you turned on the buttons themselves, and this is especially true for left-handed people or people who use a phone with one hand, when the thumb is more conveniently reached to a certain edge of the screen.
| Order of buttons | Location "Back" | Location "Home" | Location of "Menu" |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard. | Left. | Downtown. | Right. |
| Alternative | Right. | Downtown. | Left. |
| Two-button | Left/Right | Missing (swipe) | Right/Left |
To change the order, go to the navigation type selection menu and find "Button Order" or "Setting out" where you'll see two options: standard and mirror. Choose one that matches your muscle habits, and the changes will apply instantly.
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If you often make the mistake of pressing buttons, try reducing the font size in the screen settings – this will visually unload the bottom bar and make the buttons more distinct.
Hiding the navigation lane for a full screen
Even when using buttons, many users want to maximize the use of the display area, especially on models with a high-end display. AMOLED-Xiaomi’s navigation settings include a feature to hide white or black bars under the buttons, making the interface more seamless and aesthetic.
To activate this function, find the “Hide navigation hint” or “Hide the indicator” switch in the same menu where you chose the control type. Once you turn on this option, the background under the buttons will become transparent or merge with the color of the interface, creating the effect of soaring buttons.
This is especially useful when watching videos or reading books, when extra interface elements distract from content, but it is worth remembering that on some models with a cutout in the screen or low resolution, a complete concealment of the stripe can visually merge buttons with the content of applications.
⚠️ Attention: Hiding the navigation bar can make buttons less visible in light backgrounds in some apps.If you're having trouble hitting buttons, return the bar display for better contrast.
This feature combines the convenience of physical buttons with the visual appeal of full-screen mode, a compromise solution that most users are not ready to completely abandon their usual navigation.
Solution: buttons are missing or not working
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where after updating the system or installing a third-party launcher, the on-screen buttons disappear or cease to respond to clicks, most often due to a conflict of software or an accidental change in the developer's settings.
First, check whether Full Screen mode is activated for a particular application. Xiaomi has a separate Full Screen Mode menu where you can force navigation elements on or off for each installed program.
If the buttons are completely lost in the system, try the following steps:
- 🔄 Reboot your smartphone – it solves 90% of temporary software interface failures.
- 🎨 Change the theme of design – some third-party themes may not properly display system elements.
- 🛠️ Reset the launcher settings in the Apps menu» → «All applications» → «Desktop» → «Clean up».
In rare cases, the problem may be that system files are damaged after a failed update. If simple methods do not help, consider resetting the phone to factory settings, saving important data beforehand.
What if the buttons disappeared after installing a third-party launcher?
Additional navigational capabilities
MIUI and HyperOS offer even more customization options, such as setting up the action when you double-press the home button (if it's active) or swiping on the off screen, which make smartphone interaction even more flexible.
It is also worth mentioning the possibility of changing the size of buttons through special features settings, although standard means to change their dimensions can not be. For people with reduced vision, it is recommended to use the “Enlarged Text” and “Large interface elements” mode in the “Advanced settings” section.
Getting your navigation right is the foundation of a smartphone experience. If you spend a few minutes exploring these options, you’ll be able to speed up your experience in the future. Experiment with settings to find the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.
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The optimal navigation setting is individual for each user: try different combinations of buttons and gestures over a few days to make a final decision.