How to remove simple mode on Xiaomi: detailed instructions with pictures

Why Xiaomi automatically turns on Simple Mode and how to fix it

You turned on a Xiaomi smartphone and found that the interface became unusually large, with huge icons and minimal features, which means that a simple mode was activated (also known as "Lite Mode" or "Simplified Mode"), most often it turns on automatically after resetting, updating MIUI or when the device is first started for older users. But what if you want a full interface with all the settings?

Simple mode on Xiaomi is not a bug, but a special feature for users who find it difficult to understand the standard MIUI. It removes unnecessary elements, increases fonts and simplifies navigation. However, for most smartphone owners, this mode becomes a hindrance: widgets disappear, access to system settings is limited, and some applications stop working correctly. Fortunately, you can turn it off in a few steps - and we will show how to do this on all current versions of MIUI (including MIUI 14 and HyperOS).

It is important to understand that the process of disconnection can vary slightly depending on the Xiaomi model (for example, on the Redmi Note 12 and POCO X5, the paths in the menu are identical, and on the Mi 11 Ultra with slight nuances). If your device runs on Android 13/14 with a HyperOS shell, prepare for the fact that some menu items may be called differently. But don’t worry – we have considered all the options!

Method 1: Disconnect via system settings (fastest)

This method works on 90% of Xiaomi devices, including Redmi 10/11/12, POCO F4/F5, Mi 11/12/13 and other models with MIUI 12-14 or HyperOS.

Instructions:

  1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
  2. Scroll down and select Special Features (on some firmware – Additional β†’ Special Features).
  3. Find the Simple Mode (or Simplified Mode) and tap it.
  4. Turn the slider to the off position. or press Disconnect.
  5. Confirm the action if a request appears (sometimes the system asks you to enter the unlock password).

After that, the smartphone will automatically restart (some models require manual restarts). After 30 to 60 seconds, you will see the standard MIUI interface with all widgets and settings.

β˜‘οΈ What to do if the simple mode does not turn off through the settings

Done: 0 / 4

⚠️ Note: On HyperOS devices (e.g. Xiaomi 14 or Redmi) K70) The path may look like this: Settings β†’ Display. β†’ Screen mode β†’ Simple mode. If you can't find a item, search by settings (the magnifier icon at the top of the screen).

Method 2: Use Restore Mode (if settings are blocked)

There are situations where a simple mode is enabled with child control or remote control (for example, through Mi Account), in which case access to settings can be limited, then resetting through Recovery Mode will help - but be careful: this method will delete all data from the device if you do not backup!

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn off the Xiaomi smartphone with a long press on the power button.
  2. Press the Power Button + Volume combination up and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
  3. From the Recovery menu, select the language (usually English by default), then Wipe Data β†’ Wipe All Data.
  4. Confirm the reset, wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes).
  5. Reboot your device with Reboot β†’ Reboot to System.

After reset, the smartphone will start with factory settings, where the simple mode will be turned off by default, you only have to go through the initial setting (choose language, connect to Wi-Fi, etc.).

What happens if the Recovery Mode does not open?
If the combination of nutrition + The volume up doesn't work, try it: πŸ”„ Nutrition + Loudness down (on some models) POCO) πŸ”Œ Connect the charging before entering Recovery πŸ“± Hold the buttons longer (up to 20 seconds) If nothing helps, it is possible that the device has a custom recavery installed (TWRP), and require other instructions.

⚠️ Attention: Recovery removes all data, including photos, contacts and apps. If you have Mi Cloud enabled on your smartphone, some data will be automatically restored after authorization, but you better back up in advance through Settings. β†’ The phone. β†’ Backup.

Method 3: Disconnect via ADB (for advanced users)

If the first two methods did not work (for example, due to blocked settings or custom firmware), you can use USB debugging and ADB command. This method is suitable for users who have at least once worked with Android Debug Bridge.

What you need:

  • πŸ–₯️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux
  • πŸ“± Cable USB (preferably original)
  • πŸ”§ Installed Xiaomi drivers and package ADB Tools

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the smartphone Developer Mode: go to Settings β†’ About phone and 7 times tap on the item version of MIUI.
  2. Return to Settings β†’ Additional β†’ For developers and activate Debugging over USB.
  3. Connect your smartphone to your computer and confirm your trust in the device (a request will appear on the Xiaomi screen).
  4. Open the command prompt (or Terminal on macOS/Linux) and type:
adb shell settings put global simple_mode 0

If the command runs smoothly, restart the device. Simple mode will be turned off.

adb shell settings get global simple_mode

The result should return to 0 (if 1 – the mode is still active).

  • πŸ”„ Reinstall Xiaomi drivers through the official website
  • πŸ”Œ Use the other USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0)
  • πŸ“± Include in the developer settings Debugging by USB (security)

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even when following instructions, users often encounter problems, and we have compiled TOP-5 errors and ways to solve them:

Problem.Reason.Decision
Simple mode turns on itself after restartingActivated child mode or remote control through Mi AccountUntie your account in Settings β†’ Accounts β†’ Mi Account or reset your settings
There is no "Simple Mode" in the settingsOutdated version of MIUI or custom firmwareUpdate the software through Settings β†’ Update the system or use ADB
After the shutdown remain large icons.The display settings have not been reset.Manually return the scale to Settings β†’ Display β†’ Text size
ADB issues an error device unauthorizedConfidence in the computer is not confirmedReconnect the cable and confirm the request on the smartphone screen
Resetting through Recovery doesn't helpDamaged firmware or installed custom recaveriFlash the device through the Mi Flash Tool (PC required)

Critical information: On some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi 9A or POCO M3), a simple mode can block access to Settings completely. In this case, the only way out is to reset via Recovery or flash. Do not try to β€œbypass” the mode through third-party applications - this can lead to soft-brick (the device will not boot).

πŸ“Š What is the way to turn off the simple mode worked for you?
Through system settings
Reset to Recovery Mode
ADB Team Team
Another method
Not until it's done.

Simple Mode vs. Child Mode: What's the Difference?

Many users confuse the simple mode (Lite Mode) with the child mode (Mi Kids Mode), although both simplify the interface, they solve different problems:

  • πŸ‘΅ Simple mode for the elderly or newcomers, removes unnecessary features, but does not block the installation of applications.
  • πŸ‘Ά Child Mode to control child use, block access to settings, limit work hours, filter content.

If your Xiaomi activated child mode, it is more difficult to turn it off: you will need:

  1. Enter. PIN-code (if it was installed during settings).
  2. Or reset the settings through Recovery.
  3. Or use the parent’s Mi Account for remote management.

To check which mode is included, pay attention to:

  • πŸ” Simple Mode: Large icons, but all apps from Google Play are available.
  • πŸ”’ Children's mode: lock screen with timer, it is impossible to install new programs.

How to permanently block the inclusion of a simple regime

If the simple mode turns on itself after updates or resets, it can be permanently disabled through system settings or editing configuration files.

Method 1: Through special features settings

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Special Opportunities β†’ Simple Mode.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Mode Settings.
  3. Turn off the Automatic Enablement option (if any).

Method 2: Editing system files (requires root)

For experienced users with unlocked bootloader and root rights:

  1. Install a file manager with root access (such as Root Explorer).
  2. Cross the path. /data/data/com.android.settings/shared_prefs/.
  3. Find the file. com.android.settings_preferences.xml Open it in the text editor.
  4. Find a line. <boolean name="simple_mode_enabled" value="true" /> and replace true with false.
  5. Save the file and restart the device.

πŸ’‘

Disabling the automatic enablement of simple mode through system files only works on root-righted devices, without which the changes will not persist after the reboot.

⚠️ Note: Editing system files without root can lead to loss of warranty and unstable smartphone operation.If you are not sure about your actions, use the first method or reset via Recovery.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I turn off the simple mode without resetting the settings?
Yes, 90% of the time, go to Settings β†’ Special Options β†’ Simple Mode and deactivate the slider. Reset is only required if the settings are blocked (e.g., Mi Account or Child Mode).
Why do large icons remain after the simple mode is turned off?
This means that the zoom settings are not reset. Go to Settings β†’ Display β†’ Text and display size and return the slider to the default position (usually the average).
How to turn off simple mode on Xiaomi with HyperOS?
On HyperOS, the path may be different: Settings β†’ Display β†’ Screen Mode β†’ Simple Mode. If there is no item, search by settings (the magnifying glass icon at the top).
Can I return to the simple mode after disconnection?
Yes, anytime. To do that, go back to the special options settings and activate the Simple Mode slider. All changes will apply after the reboot.
What if the simple mode turns on after each MIUI update?
It's a bug in some versions of the firmware. Solutions: Go back to the previous version. MIUI via Mi Flash Tool. disable automatic update to Settings β†’ Updating the system β†’ Settings (βš™οΈ) β†’ Auto-update. Use it. ADB-command for forced shutdown (see Method 3 in article).