Where to find and how to set up a widget tape on Xiaomi

Owners of Xiaomi smartphones often face confusion when first familiarizing themselves with the MIUI shell or the new HyperOS. After activating the device, many users expect to see the usual lock screen or desktop, but find an additional panel on the left that is empty or filled with news. Understanding where to look for Xiaomi widget tape becomes a top priority for personalizing the gadget.

This functional area, which developers call the Minus Screen or Google Discover, provides quick access to commonly used applications, pedometer, weather data and news feeds. However, its location and control has changed dramatically from version to version of the operating system. In this article, we will examine in detail the algorithms for finding and configuring this interface element.

It's worth noting that not having visible widgets right after unpacking is not a mistake, but a feature of default settings in some regions. Global firmware versions often offer more flexible customization tools, while Chinese builds may require additional manipulation. Let's figure out how to turn this blank screen into a useful tool.

Mechanics of access to the widget tape on different versions of MIUI

The search for widget tape is directly dependent on the version of the installed operating system and the selected desktop mode. In the classic shell of MIUI 12 and 13, access is made by a simple swipe to the right of the left edge of the main screen. This action opens the panel, which is technically "left" of the first desktop, hence the popular name "minus screen".

The situation has become more complicated with the advent of MIUI 14 and especially HyperOS. In new versions, Xiaomi introduced widgets in the style of iOS, dividing them into two types: those that are on desktops and those in a separate tape. If a swipe to the right does not give anything or opens Google search, then the settings are activated “Classic Mode”.

⚠️ Note: On some Redmi Note models with reduced memory, the Minus Screen function can be completely removed from the firmware by the manufacturer to save RAM resources.

To switch between display modes, you need to understand the difference in navigation. In standard mode, swipe to the right opens widgets, swipe down search. In classic mode, swipe to the right causes a search, and widgets are only available through a long tap or a separate menu. It is critical to check the current mode in the settings, since this determines the entire logic of interaction with the interface.

Activation through system settings: step-by-step instructions

If a standard swipe doesn't work, you need to manually activate the function. The path to settings may vary slightly depending on the interface language, but the general logic is maintained. You need to go to the Settings menu, then select the Desktop section.

Inside this section, look for "Add Screen" or "Minus One Screen," and that's where the switch switch switches to the switchboard that's responsible for the extra panel, and in older versions of MIUI, that option could be in the "Enter" or "Extended Settings" section.

Once the feature is enabled, the system may require you to accept the terms of use of Google or Xiaomi services. This is standard procedure for news aggregators. If the swipe still doesn't work after turning on, try restarting the device so that the System Launcher shell processes are updated.

Google Discover vs Xiaomi widgets: What’s the difference?

Often, users searching for widget tapes will go to Google Discover, two different entities that can conflict or replace each other. Google Discover is a search-based news feed that shows articles and ads.

Xiaomi’s native widgets (Mi Widgets) are functional blocks: weather, notes, fast launch, pedometer. In the new versions of HyperOS, Xiaomi is looking to move away from Google’s addiction by offering its own smart tape. The difference is visible: news looks like article cards, and widgets like information blocks with data.

To switch between them, you go to the left-screen settings, which usually offer a choice of source: Google, Xiaomi or Empty. The choice of source determines the content you see when you swipe.

Configure widgets in HyperOS and MIUI 14 mode

With HyperOS, the philosophy of widgets has changed, and now they're more interactive and visually integrated, and to add a widget, it's not enough to just turn on the left screen, you have to click the menu button (usually three dots or a gear) in the corner of the tape, or swipe down inside the tape itself.

You'll see an editor where you can choose the size and type of widget, you'll find Small (2x2), Medium (2x4) and Large, and you'll notice that not all widgets support interactivity, like Notes widgets, which allows you to tick off the screen without opening the app.

⚠️ Warning: Installing a large number of heavy widgets (especially with live animation) on the left screen can significantly reduce the system response speed and increase battery consumption.

To remove an unnecessary widget, click on it and hold your finger until the contextual action menu appears, then select Remove. The freed-up space can be taken up by a more useful tool, such as a memory control widget or quick Wi-Fi settings.

Display problems and methods of their solution

There are times when the widget tape stops updating, freezes or displays incorrect data (for example, the weather of another city), most often the problem lies in access rights or background processes. Android can kill the widget process to save energy.

The first thing to do is check permissions. Go to Settings → Apps → All apps, find a system launcher or Google services and make sure they have access to Geolocation and Auto Run. Without geolocation, the weather widget won’t be able to determine your location.

It's also worth checking your energy saving settings. If you have Ultra-Energy Saving or severe background restrictions, the widgets on the left screen may stop working. Switch to Balanced or Performance.

Third-party launchers and alternative solutions

If you don’t like Xiaomi’s feature or design, you can always turn to third-party solutions. Installing an alternative launcher like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher gives you full control over the left screen.

In Microsoft Launcher, for example, the left-handed Feed is one of the most sophisticated on the market, integrating calendar, tasks, notes and news from multiple sources, but it’s worth remembering that third-party launchers can consume more resources and don’t always integrate perfectly with MIUI system functions.

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When installing a third-party launcher, be sure to give it all the permissions you request, including access to contacts and calendar, otherwise the widgets will be empty.

For advanced users, there is the possibility of installing widgets through ADB-commands or use Magisk modules if the device is unlocked, this allows you to embed system widgets that are not available in a standard build, but requires caution.

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Xiaomi widgets are optimal for fast work, but third-party launchers give limitless customization opportunities for experienced users.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)