Xiaomi’s current Android smartphones, which use MIUI or HyperOS, have powerful accessibility tools designed specifically for visually impaired people, allowing them to fully use the device without having to see the screen. The main tool here is the TalkBack screen reader, which voices all actions, buttons and text messages.
Activation of special features may be required not only for people with complete vision loss, but also for users with temporary limitations or visual impairment. In this guide, we will discuss the step-by-step process of turning on mode, adjusting voice control and using gestures. For quick activation, often a triple press of the power button is enough, if this function was pre-configured in the system.
It's important to understand that when you turn on the mode, the navigation on the interface changes dramatically. A simple one-touch stops running applications, and complex combinations of swipes and double-taps come in. So before you start setting up, carefully read the instructions so that you don't get confused in the menu that will start to "talk" to you.
What is TalkBack and how does it work for Xiaomi?
TalkBack is a standard screen reader from Google, integrated into the MIUI shell. Its main task is to convert text information and interface elements into synthesized speech. When you move your finger across the screen, the phone pronounces the name of the item on which the cursor stopped, which allows you to navigate the menu, read messages and type.
The principle of operation is based on tactile feedback and sound. Unlike the usual mode, where one touch opens an object, two actions are required: the first selection (voice) and the second activation. The voice engine can work in different languages, including Russian, and has speed and tone settings.
⚠️ Warning: Once you turn on TalkBack, managing your phone becomes difficult for an unfamiliar user. If you are setting up a device for another person, make sure they are already familiar with basic gestures, or leave this instruction in audio format.
Xiaomi’s system also offers additional enhancements, such as “Increase” and “Monophone Sound,” which work in conjunction with the screen reader, creating a comprehensive environment for comfortable use of the gadget.
Quick activation via hotkeys and Google Assistant
There are several ways to run the visually impaired mode without going through deep menus. The fastest method is to use the device's physical buttons. Many Redmi and Poco models have a triple lock button set by default. If you press the side key three times in a row, the system will ask for confirmation or immediately turn on TalkBack.
The second efficient way is to use a voice assistant. If you have a Google Assistant or Xiao AI setup, just say a command. This is especially convenient when the screen is off or the device is locked. Voice control takes over the primary navigation, allowing you to run the desired service without visual control.
- 🗣️ Say “OK Google, turn on TalkBack” to activate via search engine.
- 🔌 Connect the headset with the response button if the activation button is configured.
- ⚡ Use a combination of volume buttons if it is assigned in special features.
- 📱 Triple press of the power button (requires settings in the menu).
For those just starting to get familiar with accessibility features, it is recommended to pre-configure the activation method, and this can be done in the "Special features" section, where you can choose a convenient trigger that will work even on a locked screen.
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To activate TalkBack without touching the screen, try pressing the up and down volume buttons for 3 seconds at the same time (works on some versions of MIUI).
Manually switching on mode through system settings
If the hotkeys don't work or are not configured, you'll have to use the standard menu path, and the path may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI or HyperOS, but the logic remains the same, and you'll need to find the section that handles the advanced system settings.
Go to the main menu and select Settings. Then scroll through the list to "Advanced" or immediately look for "Special features." In newer versions of the shell, this section may be called "Advanced settings." Inside you are interested in a category related to vision.
☑️ TalkBack's power-up algorithm
Click on TalkBack. You'll see a feature window. You'll click on the big "Use TalkBack" button or the switch at the top of the screen. The system will alert you to change how you control. Click "OK" or "Accept." From there, the phone will begin to voice your actions.
It is important to note that on some Xiaomi devices with a heavily modified shell, this item may be called “Screen announcer” or be entered in a separate Accessibility app. If the standard path does not work, search for settings by typing the word “TalkBack” or “access”.
Customization of gestures and voiceover parameters
Once the standard mode is enabled, the interface becomes less convenient for normal use, but indispensable for the blind. However, standard settings can be too fast or quiet. To work comfortably, you need to calibrate the parameters to the individual needs of the user.
Go to the TalkBack settings (usually the gear in the corner of the screen or through the phone settings menu) and change your speech speed, voice tone, and even choose a different voice engine. Russian support in Google Speech Services works great, but sometimes you need to download additional data packets.
| Parameter | Description | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of speech | Speed of pronunciation of text | 0.8x - 1.0x (for beginners) |
| Vibration. | Tactile response when touched | Included (for confirmation) |
| Loudness | Screen reader sound level | 100% (maximum) |
| Details. | Level of detail in voiceover | Standard or High |
This section also features customized gestures, so you can change the swipe action with two fingers up (usually a scrolling) or set up Line menus, and the line menu is a handy bar that appears when swiping up and right, allowing you to quickly select list items without going through them.
⚠️ Warning: Do not disable Google Speech Services in your application settings. This is a system component that is necessary for voice acting to work, and deleting or stopping it will cause the phone to stop speaking».